Landscape & Garden Design Foundations Course [Mentor-led]

Learn landscape design with our Design Short Courses in Sydney!

Transform your outdoor space with this in-depth, mentor-led online program. Featuring regular live lessons, workshops, and personalised mentoring from one of Australia’s leading landscape designers, this course is designed to elevate your creativity and skills to a professional level. 

Are you ready to transform outdoor spaces into something extraordinary? In this comprehensive self-paced online course, you’ll learn the essential principles of landscape and garden design, equipping you to create stunning, functional outdoor environments. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an enthusiast looking to refine your skills, this course provides the guidance, tools, and inspiration to turn your vision into reality.

Watch the video below for a sneek peak into the course.

This extended version of the popular Landscape & Garden Design Foundations Course takes your learning further with additional exclusive benefits, including:

• 1:1 Mentoring: Get tailored guidance and feedback from a practising landscape designer.
• Live Events and Workshops: Access interactive sessions designed to deepen your learning and connect you with like-minded peers.
• Exclusive Perks: Enjoy industry memberships, software discounts, and other benefits to support your journey.

By the end of this program, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to design landscapes that are as beautiful as they are functional.

Interested in learning more?

Hit the 'Apply Now' button to receive a detailed course guide and a complimentary consultation with a course advisor. Let’s explore how this program can help you achieve your creative goals.

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.

Recognition of your achievement:

Upon completing the course, you’ll receive a Certificate of Completion and a Digital Badge, which you can include on your CV and share on social media and/or your website to showcase your achievements.  

Course content

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

This course, delivered by a panel of industry experts, and featuring regular live lessons and mentoring, 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 & assignments

This course features the following activities & assignments to enhance your learning and apply key concepts learnt in a practical context:

• Knowledge checks: Quizzes at the end of each lesson 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: Apply your course knowledge to a design scenario of your choice, creating a detailed concept presentation. This project is an excellent opportunity to experience the stages of a professional design project and practise your problem-solving, creativity, and research skills. Your mentor will provide detailed feedback on your submission.

Intended audience

Who is this course for?

This comprehensive short course provides a broad foundation in landscape and garden design, making it perfect for: 

• Homeowners who want to improve their outdoor spaces and take on DIY design projects.
• Individuals new to landscape and garden design who want to commence a fulfilling new career and find creative and fulfilling work in the industry.
• Individuals who aspire to start and grow their own landscape design business.
• Professionals in related fields such as interior design, construction, or gardening who want to expand their skillset and provide their clients with a broader range of services.

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.
• Regular live webinars, workshops, and course events hosted by your course mentor Clare Mackarness, a leading landscape designer. You get a dedicated 1:1 session at the end of your course to review your final project in detail and plan your next steps in the industry.
• 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.