Overview
The Bicester Village landscaping project was part of an expansive retail outlet in Oxfordshire, aimed at transforming the site to embody an “English cottage garden” feel. Initially intended as a straightforward retail park landscape scheme, the project evolved into a highly customised and complex design process. The landscaping team from Land Structure was responsible for extensive landscaping across two sections: the main retail area and a large car park.
Challenges
The original project plan was abandoned early on when the client decided to emphasise a more “English cottage garden” theme. The project team faced several challenges, including:
Change of direction from new Consultant – A retail consultant with little commercial landscaping experience took over design decisions, leading to frequent changes and the need for improvised solutions totally changing the scheme.
Increased Scope – The plant density and variety significantly expanded, with imported plants from Europe and additional floral elements added unexpectedly.
Complex Tree Installation – Tree pits in the car park required advanced soil and structural support, consuming nearly half the project budget and needing close coordination with suppliers.
Unplanned Costs and Timeline Adjustments – The project went over budget due to last-minute design changes and increased plant quantities.
Solution
Despite the challenges, Land Structure maintained flexibility and commitment to delivering the vision. Key approaches included:
Close Collaboration – Worked closely with suppliers, including Green Blue Urban for the tree pits, and coordinated with the consultant and her team to adjust the layout on-site.
Adaptive Landscaping Techniques – Adjusted the planting density and selected alternative plants where necessary to meet the design intent.
Skilled Team Deployment – As the project escalated, Land Structure allocated their largest site team to complete the project on time, involving up to 25 workers.
Results
The project was completed on schedule in November 2017, opening in time for the Christmas season. Although the project faced numerous changes and challenges, it ultimately delivered the desired visual impact with high-density planting and an aesthetically appealing layout. The site achieved a “wow factor,” though it required unconventional methods and the use of temporary, artificial plant elements to achieve immediate visual appeal.
Key Takeaways
Flexibility in Project Management – Being able to adapt to unexpected demands allowed Land Structure to deliver a high-quality result despite design and budgetary challenges.
Importance of Early Consultant Involvement – The client’s decision to introduce a new consultant late in the project led to inefficiencies. Involving key stakeholders earlier could have improved design consistency.
Long-Term Maintenance Needs – The dense planting layout will likely need significant maintenance, reflecting a focus on instant impact over sustainable landscape planning.
Reflections
This project, while unique and highly challenging, demonstrated Land Structure’s ability to manage complex landscaping designs under high pressure. The team’s adaptability and commitment were instrumental in delivering a successful result that met the client’s vision for a premium retail environment.
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