Founded in 1999, Alex Smith Garden Design, Ltd. has designed and implemented notable gardens and landscapes in Atlanta and throughout the Southeast. Alex Smith Garden Design, Ltd. prides itself on creating engaging environments that are sustainable, appropriate to place, responsive to architecture, and most importantly, that exceed client expectations.

By R. Caligaris

Alex graduated from the Art Institute of Atlanta with a degree in Landscape Design. He began his career as a lead designer under renowned garden designer, Ryan Gainey. During his eight years working with Ryan, Alex was an integral part of creating diverse landscapes throughout the eastern United States. Alex spoke to SVM about some of the design challenges unique to the South, some of his favorite plants he likes to work with, and some of the people who influenced his work.

What inspired you to become a garden designer? I have always appreciated the creative aspect of garden design and its ability to connect people with outside spaces.

What are some of the gardening and design challenges unique to the South? There are many. We work in many locations throughout the Southeast and beyond. I am constantly learning how different plant combinations and materials will perform in different climates and conditions.

I don’t think that this is unique to the South, but we often experience problems with deer activity. I find myself reminding clients often that we have a really long, humid growing season in the south and that the inspirational pictures from Northern or even European gardens often don’t apply. On the other hand, our temperate climate is conducive to growing lots of things that aren’t possible in the North.

What are some of your favorite plants to work with right now? I am always observing and trying out new plants. I am very fond of Blue-Eyed Grass (Sisyrinchium spp.) as a ground cover. I also love ‘Wheeler’s dwarf’ pittosporum as a low evergreen. Of course, I love all Hydrangeas and Camellias and my favorite trees are American Beech and White Oak.

What’s the most important aspect for you when designing an outdoor space? Understanding how the space will be used, how it relates to the architecture and the client’s understanding and willingness to give the gardens we design proper maintenance.

Outdoor living has become more important and popular than ever. How has the pandemic affected what you do and how you do it? If anything, it has caused a whole new desire to spend time outdoors with friends and family. During the pandemic, I think lots of people realized how important it is to connect with nature. I really don’t approach any projects differently than I have ever had.

Do you have a particular person who influenced your garden design style? I would say the two most influential people that helped me to develop my style are Ryan Gainey and Rosemary Verey. I was very fortunate to have worked for both.

You’re a well-travelled gardener, what have been your favorite gardens to visit so far? That’s a tough one. Sezincote in England is very unique. I love Dumbarton Oaks in Washington DC and the Royal Horticultural Society Garden at Wisley is phenomenal. I think the Highline in New York City is brilliant as well.

ALEX SMITH Garden Design, Ltd.