Garden Renovation & Planting in Warwickshire
Thoughtful garden renovation and planting design for gardens that grow better with age.
Thoughtful. Sustainable. Timeless.
About our renovation and planting services
The core of garden renovation is understanding what the space needs to grow well for years to come, then building from that foundation.
At Umber, renovation work begins with close observation. We look at what's already there: existing structure, soil conditions, aspect, drainage and the relationship between the garden and the house. From that, we shape a plan that keeps what's worth keeping, removes what isn't working and introduces planting that truly belongs.
Planting is at the heart of every renovation we carry out. It softens structure and adds seasonal rhythm, bringing a space to life in a way that hard landscaping alone never can. Mark Wright leads every project personally, from first visit through to final planting, so nothing is lost between the planning stage and what actually goes in the ground.
Testimonials
“I cannot recommend Umber Design more highly. From initial contact right through to project completion communicating with Mark on and off site was more than we could have hoped for. Professional, detailed, adaptable, efficient and highly creative.”
Rachel Dickinson
Our garden consultancy process
No two garden renovations are the same. Whether you're working with an overgrown plot or an established garden that's lost its direction, our process gives you a clear path from where you are to where you want to be.
Site visit and assessment
The first step is a thorough on-site visit. We assess the garden’s existing conditions. That includes the soil type, drainage, aspect, light levels and relationship between the outdoor space and the house. We’ll listen carefully to how you currently use the garden and what you want from it.
Renovation and planting plan
From the site visit, Mark develops a clear plan covering what to remove and retain, plus what new planting to introduce. Planting choices are made with the full year in mind. Along with seasonal interest, plants are selected for local suitability and long-term resilience.
Implementation
Umber's in-house team carries out the renovation work directly. Because Mark leads every stage personally, the thinking behind the plan is present throughout the build. There are no handovers and no interpretation by a separate contractor. So, what was designed is what gets built.
Ongoing care
Once the renovation is complete, we offer a tailored garden care service to help the space mature properly. Planting takes time to establish, and the seasons following a renovation are often when attentive care matters most. We can stay involved for as long as you need us.
Umber isn't a national firm sending out a different contractor each time. Every renovation and planting project is led personally by Mark Wright, a Warwickshire-based designer with RHS qualifications and a First-Class Honours degree in Design.
Warwickshire through and through, Mark knows about everything from local soils to regional growing conditions. He understands how gardens sit within the character of Shakespeare Country. That knowledge shapes every planting decision he makes. Plants are chosen not just for how they look on paper but for how they'll perform in the ground, through the seasons, over years.
His background in forestry, drystone walling and oak framing means his approach to renovation goes beyond planting. He understands structure and materials, plus how gardens age. Recommendations are grounded in what’s actually going to work in the long run, not just what looks good on the day.
The result? A renovation that feels right for its setting from the outset. And one that continues to improve long after the work is done.
Local knowledge, lasting results
The Umber difference
When you want to replant or renovate your garden, there’s no shortage of companies claiming to be the best. Here’s why Umber stands out.
One lead, start to finish
Mark leads every renovation personally, from first site visit through to final planting. You’ll work with the same person throughout, and the thinking behind the plan is present at every stage.
Planting at the heart
Renovation work at Umber is always planting-led. Structure matters, but it's the planting that brings a garden to life. Above all, it adds seasonal rhythm and creates the sense that a space truly belongs.
Renovations that last
Mark's background in forestry, oak framing and drystone walling means every recommendation is grounded in how gardens actually age. Nothing is specified for immediate effect alone.
Design and build under one roof
Umber's in-house team carries out all renovation work directly. No contractors, no handovers, no dilution of the original vision.
Insights and stories from the studio
Find out what inspires our work. Each piece offers a glimpse into how we think, create and cultivate spaces that shape how you live.
Contact our local renovation experts today
If you're ready to renovate your garden or refresh your planting, speak to Umber Garden Design.
Whether you're starting from scratch or working with an established space that needs a new direction, we'd love to help with your garden.
f you want clear, expert guidance on your garden from someone who genuinely understands the local landscape, speak to Umber Garden Design.
hello@umbergardendesign.co.uk
01926 754 049
Renovation & planting FAQs
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A review of existing planting and structure
Removal of what isn't working
The introduction of new planting and landscaping where needed
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It depends on the scope. A focused planting renovation can be completed in days, while larger structural projects take longer. Mark will give you a clear picture of timescales after the initial site visit.
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A redesign typically starts from scratch with new plans and a fresh layout. A renovation works with what's already there, improving and refreshing rather than replacing everything.
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Yes. Umber's in-house team covers both. That means planting and structural work are planned and delivered together.
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Absolutely. Many clients come to us with gardens that have real potential but have lost their direction. Knowing what to keep is as important as knowing what to change.
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Costs vary depending on the size and scope of the project. After a site visit, we'll provide a clear quote before any work begins.
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Autumn and early spring are ideal for planting work. Renovation projects can be planned year-round, with implementation timed to suit the season.
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Wherever possible, yes. Healthy, well-placed plants will be incorporated into the new scheme.
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Mark assesses soil, aspect and drainage on site, so planting choices are matched to your specific conditions. No one-size-fits-all here.