Armstrong expands with six-figure investment in design division

Accredited Contractor, Armstrong Gardens and Landscapes has made two key appointments as part of a major investment in a new division of the business. 

After a successful year, reporting a record turnover of £ 1.2 million, the contractor has expanded with a design division, allowing them to work with clients from start to finish. 

The company has recruited Landscape Designer Jack Verran, and Horticulture Manager, Matt Nelson, allowing the team to do landscape architecture in-house. 

Jack has an extensive Landscape Architect portfolio, having recently worked on developments across Glasgow, including Pollok Country Park as part of the Burrell Collection. With 15 years of experience in landscape architecture, design and build and horticulture, Jack is sure to make a fantastic addition to the team. 

Matt has a varied portfolio, having gained experience in landscape architecture, ecology, engineering and garden design practices throughout the Lothians, including the capital’s Portobello High School, Shawfair Park and various environmental assessments.

Founder and Managing Director, Fraser Armstrong said: 

“It’s four years since I set out on this journey and right from the outset, I wanted to build a successful business by growing steadily."

Since then, the company has also introduced some of the latest software as part of the six-figure expansion, including high-performance architectural software and surveying equipment.

Fraser continues:

“Our recent financial results show we have achieved that and we can push on from here. No two garden designs are the same and no two people want the same outside space. We have the people and technology here who can bring these visions to reality. I’m really pleased with our progress. We have a good balance of skills between the design and installation team allowing us to focus on large-scale domestic contracts as well as commercial projects"

“There aren’t many companies that do both. There are lots of contractors who only do the hard landscaping, having been given a plan by designers, but will not have had any input themselves, which can be a bit disjointed. Very few firms do both areas and do them well and that’s our target. I’m delighted to now have the garden design division up and running. We want to build on that service and take it to the next level to offer a complete design and build service to clients by being a specialist in both areas.”

Commenting on his appointment, Jack Verran said:

“It’s an exciting time to be working for the company as we have the skillsets, experience, technology and innovative spirit to meet the needs of both domestic garden design and commercial projects.

We’re channelling the craftsmanship of stonemasons, joiners, landscapers and horticulturists. It’s exciting to collaborate with all these skills and interpret them into the design element. The opportunities for creativity in our Landscape Design team are endless and are hugely beneficial to our clients.

Through our design and build process we can allow customers to secure a guaranteed date in the diary whilst having the luxury to choose from costed 2D and 3D design options that work with their needs on a functional, aesthetic and costings level.

Being part of an ambitious, growing business is very appealing and the team is looking forward to the next part of the Armstrong journey.”