Building Dreams, One Garden at a Time
At John French Landscape Design, we’re not just designers—we’re builders. Our integrated design-construct model means you work with one team from concept through to completion, ensuring seamless execution and outstanding results.
With over 44 years of construction experience across Melbourne’s northeast, our skilled team brings technical expertise and craftsman’s pride to every project.
Our Construction Capabilities
Earthworks & Site Preparation
Every successful landscape begins with proper site preparation:
- Excavation and cut-and-fill operations
- Soil removal and importation
- Site levelling and grading
- Trenching for services and drainage
- Access preparation and protection
Retaining Walls
We construct retaining walls in various materials to suit different situations:
- Timber sleeper walls: Treated pine and hardwood
- Concrete block walls: Rendered, clad, or exposed
- Natural stone walls: Dry-stacked or mortared
- Gabion walls: Wire cage and stone systems
All walls over 1 metre receive engineering certification as required.
Paving & Hard Surfaces
We install premium hard surfaces including:
- Natural stone: Bluestone, sandstone, granite
- Porcelain tiles: On properly prepared concrete bases
- Brick pavers: Clay and concrete options
- Exposed aggregate concrete: Decorative and durable
- Recycled materials: Brick and mixed aggregate
Timber Structures
Our carpentry team builds quality outdoor structures:
- Decking: Hardwood and composite options
- Pergolas: Traditional and contemporary designs
- Alfresco roofing: Insulated and skillion options
- Privacy screens: Timber and composite materials
- Boardwalks: For sloping or wet areas
- Garden edging: Timber and steel
Drainage & Services
Proper drainage is essential for long-term success:
- Surface and subsurface drainage systems
- Ag-drains and drainage pits
- Stormwater management
- Connection to existing services
- Irrigation preparation
The Design-Build Advantage
Single Point of Accountability
Unlike companies that outsource construction, we build what we design. This means:
- No finger-pointing between designers and builders
- Consistent communication throughout your project
- Design intent understood and executed correctly
- Problems solved quickly without blame-shifting
Seamless Transition
The team that designed your garden supervises its construction. They understand the design intent and can make informed decisions when site conditions require adaptation.
Quality Control
Our designers conduct regular site inspections throughout construction, ensuring the built outcome matches the design vision.
Our Construction Process
Pre-Construction Planning
Before work begins, we:
- Confirm all permits and approvals are in place
- Finalise material selections and orders
- Coordinate trade schedules
- Establish site access and protection measures
- Confirm project timeline and milestones
Construction Phase
During construction, you can expect:
- Professional site management
- Regular progress updates
- Clean and organised work sites
- Respect for your property and neighbours
- Prompt resolution of any issues
Handover & Aftercare
At project completion:
- Thorough site cleanup
- Walkthrough of all completed elements
- Care instructions for plants and materials
- Warranty information provided
- Follow-up support as needed
Investment Range
Our construction projects typically range from $50,000 to $300,000+, reflecting our focus on substantial renovations and comprehensive landscape transformations.
We provide fixed-price quotations based on completed design documentation, so you know exactly what to expect before construction begins.
Quality Standards
All our construction work adheres to:
- Victorian Building Authority requirements
- Relevant Australian Standards
- Manufacturer specifications for materials
- Industry best practices
We stand behind our work with warranties as required under the Victorian Domestic Building Contracts Act.
Ready to Build Your Dream Garden?
Let our experienced construction team transform your landscape design into reality. Contact us to discuss your project and receive a detailed quotation.
