Alex Bell Garden Design was set up by Alex Bell in 2003. Since then ABGD and has been successfully creating inspirational gardens throughout Sussex and the Southern Counties, developing a reputation for the innovative and sensitive approach to each individual project. These have included anything from small planting projects to large scale landscaping schemes.
ABGD specialise in the design, build and maintenance of outstanding gardens and are dedicated to providing an affordable and professional Garden Design service for all clients looking to improve their outside space. We understand that every project is different, and all of our services are flexible so they can be tailored to each client’s unique and individual set of requirements.
The function of a garden is of utmost importance. A successful design unifies the space between architecture and landscape and sensitivity should be considered to ensure that all materials and plants used in the space are appropriate to the character and location of each particular site. Simplicity and unity are also key points to consider when creating a successful garden scheme. We try to work with a simple palette and work with materials and plants which look natural in the environment we are given.
By looking at each project objectively and after close consultation with every client we use our creative vision and experience to produce innovative and imaginative designs suitable for each individual location. Our passion for plants and our natural environment provides us with the inspiration we need to produce unique garden schemes with the aim to stimulate and inspire for years to come.
Over the years Alex has built a team of experienced designers, horticultural professionals and consultants who share his passion and expertise for creating outstanding and exceptional gardens.
Whatever the project the combined knowledge and experience of our small team ensures all projects are run in a professional and friendly manner.
Meet the Team
Alex Bell
Alex is an award-winning Garden Designer based in Steyning, West Sussex with over 30 years’ experience in garden design, horticulture and environmental consultancy.
After training initially in conservation and habitat management, the jump to horticulture and garden design seemed like a natural progression. This experience working and maintaining our natural environment influences the work Alex does today and inspires his approach when designing gardens.
Since setting up his own design business Alex has won medals at both The Hampton Court Flower Show and The Malvern Spring Gardening Show, (Gold, Silver – Gilt, Silver & Winner of The Most Creative Garden Award). In total he has staged 5 gardens and prior to these he was a finalist in Channel 4’s The Great Garden Challenge (2005).
Alex has a passion for all things green and loves to spend time outside, even in the rain. When not at the drawing board he is still keen to be involved in all aspects of the design, build, planting and maintenance of a garden.
Alex Ballantyne
Alex was a keen amateur gardener for many years whilst working in sales and marketing for high profile organisations like Fender Musical Instruments and 20th Century Fox. After deciding that there was more to life than sitting in front of a screen all day long, he changed career to get closer to Nature and swapped spreadsheets for the outdoors.
Having trained at the Royal Horticultural Society, he has now worked as a gardener for over 10 years. As well as running the sales and marketing at Alex Bell Garden Design, he also manages the transformation to reality when the designs have been completed. Alex is responsible for organising the quotation process for the garden builds and managing the build and planting process. He still likes like get his hands dirty, so you will also see him during the planting days too.
Alex is a keen problem solver and enjoys bringing the plans to life, he’s a firm believer that beautiful gardens transform people’s lives immensely – improving their well-being and connection with Nature.
Keeley Bell
Keeley switched careers from a life in administration to a life in the garden. She has been working as a Gardener for 12 yrs looking after some of the gardens that have been designed by Alex as well as advising other clients on how to get the best from their gardens too. Keeley has recently joined the team helping to organise and schedule any Garden Maintenance work that may follow on from the design and build of a garden. You may often see her during maintenance consultancy visits too.
Keeley has learnt her trade through on the job training, she is efficient, organised and has a thorough understanding of how to look after a garden through the seasons. Keeley will be your Garden Maintenance Guru after the design, build and planting has been completed. She can help guide you on what you should be doing throughout the year and generally hold your hand to help you familiarise yourself with your new garden to ensure you get the best out of the plants while they establish and mature.