Transform your outdoor space with BIG FISH Garden Design

About BIG FISH Garden Design

BIG FISH Garden Design is the creative work of Conor O’Donovan, an Irish designer based in South East London. As a part-time artist with a PhD in molecular biology, Conor's unique blend of artistic vision and scientific expertise brings a thoughtful and informed approach to garden design. His designs not only enhance the beauty of outdoor spaces but also ensure the right plants are chosen to thrive in each garden’s unique conditions.

In 2023, Conor enrolled at Capel Manor College in London to formally study garden design, further honing his skills in creating sustainable, biodiverse, and inspiring landscapes.

Whether you’re looking for a tranquil retreat, a wildlife-friendly haven, or a dynamic planting scheme, BIG FISH Garden Design offers a thoughtful, science-backed approach to transforming outdoor spaces.

Conor transformed this neglected area of my garden with lots of imaginative planting. I am so pleased with it I have asked him to design a wildlife pond for my middle bed which I'm very excited for!

Lindsey N

"

My Approach to Garden Design

" I believe that gardens can be functional, beautiful and ecologically responsible. My design philosophy centres on sustainability, biodiversity, and a deep respect for nature. By working with nature rather than against it, I create landscapes that can support local wildlife, enhance soil health, and thrive with minimal environmental impact.

Beyond aesthetics, my goal is to create gardens that offer sanctuary—for both people and wildlife. Let’s work together to design a landscape that’s not only beautiful but also sustainable, functional, and full of life. "

Garden Design Services

Transforming outdoor spaces with tailored designs and expert planting solutions for your garden

Custom Garden Design

Transforming your outdoor space to create the garden you have always wanted.

Planting Design

Sourcing the perfect plants to complement your garden design and thrive in your space, whether for a new garden or for a refresh of an existing one.

Perhaps you don't need a full garden design or planting design service but just need some advice on your garden and plants.

Consultations

• Initial consultation: Getting to fully understand what you need and want from your garden to help create the design brief

• Site analysis: Measuring the space, and gathering important information such as level changes, drainage, and soil type

• Design: Creating personalised designs, mood boards and drawings to help you visualise the end result, including any technical drawings required for construction

• Construction: Helping you engage with the right contractor to build your garden, and working with them to ensure a smooth process

• Planting: See next panel

• Plant selection: All plants are carefully chosen to suit the aspect and soil conditions of your garden

• Planting plan: Preparation of a full plant list and planting plan to help you visualise your plants and how your planting will look in your garden

• Sourcing: Plants are sourced from specialist nurseries to ensure vitality and health

• Planting: Preparation of planting areas and planting according to the agreed plan

• Maintenance plan: Provision of an easy to follow instruction manual on how to care for your new plants

• Garden walkthrough: A walk through your garden together provides you the opportunity to ask any questions relating to your garden and seek advice on things like maintenance, plant care, plant selection for soil types and aspects, etc.

• Consultation report: A written report can also be provided following the consultation

Portfolio Gallery

Explore some stunning garden designs and vibrant planting solutions

A flavour of Japan

Full shade corner

Dry garden planting

Get in Touch

I'd love to hear from you! Leave me a message or give me a call to discuss how I can help with your garden project today.

Connect

+44 (0)7930 315 264

Reach

conor@bigfishgardendesign.co.uk