What you'll learn
Learn landscape design with our Design Short Courses in Sydney!
Join award-winning, world renowned designer Jim Fogarty for a six-part masterclass uncovering the principles and techniques of garden design.
Perfect for aspiring designers and passionate gardeners alike, this series will help you turn ideas into confident, creative designs.
Course content
What will be covered in this landscape and garden design course?
Workshop 1: Creating a Base Plan – The Important First Stages in the Design Process
Wednesday 6 August
- Understand what a base plan is and why it matters
- Research your site and assess its landscape value
- Create your first draft base plan using sketches and colour
- Learn common pitfalls and how to avoid them
Workshop 2: Site Analysis & On-Site Inspiration – How to Start Your Design Ideas
Wednesday 20 August
- Perform a site analysis to identify key features, constraints, and opportunities
- Draw inspiration from architecture and the natural environment
- Explore movement, flow, and how they influence design
- Begin developing your initial design concept
Workshop 3: Drawing Hardscapes & Vegetation (with Intro to Elevations)
Wednesday 3 September
- Draw structural elements such as paths, patios, and retaining walls
- Represent trees, shrubs, and planting zones
- Understand scale, layout, and spatial planning
- Get an introduction to elevation drawing
Workshop 4: Elevation Sketching & Understanding Levels
Wednesday 17 September
- Create elevation drawings to show height, slope, and perspective
- Represent stairs, slopes, and level changes
- Understand site levels and how to communicate them visually
- Review examples of level-sensitive design solutions
Workshop 5: Design Inspiration – Materials
Wednesday 1 October
- Choose materials that are functional, durable, and visually cohesive
- Understand how budget and maintenance influence material selection
- Analyse real-world case studies of material use
- Explore sustainable and low-maintenance material options
Workshop 6: Design Inspiration – Plants
Wednesday 15 October
- Develop planting palettes that enhance colour, texture, and form
- Design for seasonality, environmental factors, and long-term growth
- Learn practical tips for plant selection and placement
- Study effective planting combinations from real projects
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 an 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.
- All lessons will be recorded and made available for students to re-watch or catch up on if they are unable to attend.
Student Reviews
Featured Experts
Learn from Australia's best
Learn from an award-winning , world renowned designer:
- Jim Fogarty: Jim is an award-winning landscape designer and architect with over 30 international design accolades, including 16 gold medals. He was the first Australian-based designer to compete at the prestigious RHS Chelsea Flower Show and the Philadelphia Flower Show. His standout achievements include Gold at RHS Chelsea (2011), and both Gold and Best in Show at RHS Hampton Court (2014). He also won the Gardening World Cup in Japan (2011). Jim is internationally recognised and frequently invited to judge leading garden shows and design competitions around the world.
Course tutors
Jim Fogarty
Clare Mackarness
Great reasons to enrol in a short course with us
Small classes
A personal approach means quality learning, so you can enjoy plenty of interaction with your instructor and the chance to ask questions.
Short & sweet
Our short courses & workshops get straight to the point, providing the skills you need with minimal commitment of your precious time.
Facilities & equipment
Our range of venues suit every type of course, are easy to get to, and have the equipment and tech needed to support your learning.
Easy, secure enrolment
Enrol online 24/7 with a safe, convenient 3-step process, and you can change your mind up to 7 days before class starts.
Quality instructors
Our educators bring first-hand experience and knowledge, with up-to-the-minute practices from diverse industries.
Business or pleasure
Our courses help you rapidly increase your skills and knowledge, for professional development or personal interest.
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Classes Online Courses
<p>Learn landscape design with our Design Short Courses in Sydney!</p>
<p>Join award-winning, world renowned designer Jim Fogarty for a six-part masterclass uncovering the principles and techniques of
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