HomeProfile

Julie Vann, Principal Designer

A love of colour, texture and pattern, together with a passion for plants, gardens and the natural landscape led Julie to a major career change 15 years ago. After studying at the School of Garden Design in London and gaining a diploma in 1998, she established Outerspaces Garden Design.

In 2001 she was delighted to succeed in gaining Registered Membership of the Society of Garden Designers, having passed the SGD’s rigorous adjudication process, the only Bedfordshire-based designer to achieve this.

At Outerspaces we just love gardens, and have been lucky enough to work with a wide range of clients and outdoor spaces. Tiny courtyards in town can be as interesting and challenging as large country gardens. The aim is to create a beautiful and practical space for you and your family; whatever the problems or restrictions. If you are planning an extension or new build we are experienced in working with architects and builders, and can design from the architect’s plans. If you own a holiday home in the Mediterranean for example we can help you create an aromatic, low maintenance garden to enhance your visits. Outerspaces is keen to promote ecological and sustainable design principles, incorporating landscaping materials sympathetic to the site and naturalistic planting schemes wherever possible.

Your garden links you to your past and your surroundings and can be a buffer against the hectic pace of life. We are aware of the therapeutic nature of a garden and aim to create an atmosphere that is both relaxing and restorative.

The Team

When you choose Outerspaces Garden Design, you will benefit from our recommendations for trustworthy, award-winning landscape contractors to carry out your garden transformation; ensuring that you remain in control of the look, the cost and the quality of your new garden. Unlike more unscrupulous designers Outerspaces accepts no hidden fees from contractors. Instead, you can be confident that landscape contractors are recommended with your best interests in mind.

Great gardens are created by a great team and Outerspaces will also provide you with access to a network of talented horticulturalists, artists and craftspersons, outdoor lighting specialists, irrigation experts or natural swimming pool installers to add the finishing touches to your garden.

"Our thanks for giving the garden that extra bit of individuality that goes with the house"
AB, Market Harborough

"With thanks for such an enjoyable experience re-creating my ‘patch'."
AW, Northampton

"...the design works beautifully, and all our visitors are very complimentary"
JS Northampton

"Thank you so much for all your hard work, patience and understanding in the designing of our garden. It is very much appreciated and we are certain we will spend many happy years looking after it"
P and J M, Northampton

"This really feels like one of the best presents we have given (mum) - because it was something she wanted, and because you've been so helpful and have come up with a great design. Thank you!"
JA, London