Landscape & Garden Design Foundations Course

Learn landscape design with our Design Short Courses in Sydney!

Design your dream outdoor space. 

Are you ready to transform your outdoor space into something extraordinary? In this self-paced online Landscape & Garden Design course, you’ll discover the core principles of landscape and garden design, empowering you to craft beautiful, functional environments. Whether you’re new to garden design, or looking to explore your creativity, this course provides the skills and inspiration you need to create unique, thriving landscapes that reflect your vision. Join now to start your journey toward designing spaces that bring your ideas to life!

Learning outcomes

By the end of this landscape and garden design course, it is intended that you will be able to:

• Conduct a comprehensive site analysis to guide design decisions.
• Create detailed landscape plans using a variety of design tools.
• Select plants and turf suited to climate, soil, and aesthetic goals.
• Apply sustainable design practices in your landscape projects.
• Choose and work with hardscaping materials like stone, timber, and concrete.
• Style outdoor spaces with furniture, lighting, and décor to complement your design.

Once you complete the course, you will be issued a Digital Badge and a Certificate of Completion.

Course content

What will be covered in this landscape and garden design course?

This course, delivered by a panel of industry experts, will cover:

• Designing with Purpose: Understand the principles of functional landscape design.
• Design Styles & Aesthetics: Explore different design styles and their applications.
• Location & Site Analysis: Learn how to assess site conditions and features.
• Design Tools: Gain skills in using design software and traditional drawing methods.
• Plant Selection: Learn how to choose plants for various climates and soils.
• Turf Selection & Management: Understand turf choices and maintenance techniques.
• Hardscaping: Explore the use of materials like stone, wood, and concrete.
• Sustainability: Incorporate eco-friendly practices into your designs.
• Exterior Styling: Complete your design with outdoor furniture, lighting, and décor.

Course activities & (optional) assignments

Please note there is no requirement to submit any activities in this course for grading. However, the course features the following activities & assignments to enhance your learning and give you to option to apply key concepts learnt in a practical context:

• Knowledge checks: Quizzes to reinforce learning.
• Activity: Create a mood board for a landscape project.
• Activity: Develop a scaled landscape drawing based on your site analysis.
• Final project: Prepare a landscape design that applies all the knowledge you’ve acquired during the course.

Intended audience

Who is this course for?

• Homeowners wanting to enhance their outdoor spaces.
• Beginners looking to learn landscape and/or garden design fundamentals.
• Professionals in interior design, construction, or gardening who want to broaden their skills.
• Aspiring landscape designers seeking a strong foundational start to their learning journey.

Course materials

This is a self-paced online course delivered by our specialist partner in industry-led short courses.

Students will need access to a computer, laptop, or tablet with an internet connection. No other prerequisites are required.

The course includes:

• Engaging video lessons delivered by industry experts.
• Interactive quizzes and activities to enhance learning.
• Self-paced online learning through our partner platform, with instant support available from its AI-powered Learning Assistant.
• Exclusive discounts on software, memberships and materials from industry partners.

Student Reviews

Featured Experts

Learn from Australia's best

Learn from a panel of industry professionals, including some of Australia’s most acclaimed and award-winning garden and landscape designers:

• Jim Fogarty: Award-winning AILA Registered Landscape Architect.
• Matt Leacy: Founder of Landart with over 20 years of experience.
• Steve Taylor: Managing Director of COS Design and a regular judge at landscape and garden design shows.
• Bethany Williamson: Minimalist landscape designer and founder of BWLA.
• Clare Mackarness: Urban landscape designer with a focus on sustainability.
• Joel Barnett: Owner of InStyle Gardens and host of The Landscaping Podcast.
• Andrew Smith: Business Development Manager at Warners Nurseries, specialising in horticulture.
• David Geltch: Farm Manager at Coolabah Turf, focusing on sustainable farming practices.