Meet Daniel Smith, Grandscapes Landscaper

Following in his Grandad’s footsteps Daniel Smith, of Grandscapes, sits down with the team to chat about his inspirations, career highlights, top tips for those new to landscaping and what it’s like working with Arbour Landscaping Solutions. 

Question (Q): What inspired you to become a Landscaper? 

Answer (A): Landscaping has always been a part of my life. My Grandad was a landscaper, and from a young age, I loved helping him whenever I could. When I wasn’t working alongside him, I was lending a hand to my dad on various projects of his own. These early experiences not only taught me practical skills but also sparked a passion for outdoor spaces and craftsmanship that has stayed with me ever since.

Q: How long have you been in business? 

A: Officially 2 years but I previously had the business from 9 years ago before laying it dormant for a couple of years whilst I gained more experience.

Q: Where did you train? 

A: Merrist Wood College

Q: Do you design and build or work with Garden Designers? 

A: We are a design, build, and maintenance company dedicated to creating exceptional outdoor spaces. While we offer a full in-house service from concept to completion, we also collaborate closely with external designers, bringing their visions to life with precision and care. Whether we're leading the design or executing someone else's, our focus is always on quality craftsmanship and delivering outstanding results.

Q: Where do you gain inspiration for your work?

A: My inspiration comes from many places, often in the everyday moments, like walking down the street and noticing the creativity someone has brought to their garden. I'm equally inspired by my clients and their unique visions; understanding what they desire pushes me to think differently and bring their ideas to life in meaningful ways.

Travel also plays a big role in shaping my perspective. When I go on holiday, I make it a point to visit different parts of the world, drawing inspiration from how various cultures design and interact with their outdoor spaces. From traditional gardens to modern landscapes, every environment teaches me something new about balance, texture, and creativity.

Q: Who has been the biggest influence on your career? 

A: My Parents, Grandparents and my wife.

Q: Natural Stone, porcelain or reclaimed stone, which is your favourite and why? 

A: Natural stone wins this all day long. The feel, versatilely, durability and how it ages just makes it my favourite.

Q: How do you feel your work transforms your customers lives? 

A: I believe every client has a vision for their garden - an idea of what their perfect outdoor space could be. Often, it may feel like just a dream, something they’re not sure is truly achievable. But that’s where we come in.

By working closely with each client, we turn that vision into reality. Whether it's a vibrant entertaining space for hosting friends and family or a peaceful retreat for quiet relaxation, we create outdoor environments that not only meet their expectations but often exceed them. It’s incredibly rewarding to transform someone’s idea into a space that genuinely enhances their lifestyle.

Q: What advice would you offer to newly qualified landscapers? 

A: Don’t take on more than you can handle, it’s best to say no to a project than to attempt it and not provide the best service possible. Client’s respect honesty!

Q: Which trade shows do you like to attend? 

A: APL Awards, Futurescapes, I would love to attend BALI awards one day.

Q: Which areas of the country do you cover? 

A: Surrey, Hertfordshire, Hampshire, London.

Q: Are you part of any trade body organisation? 

A: Planning on becoming a member of APL.

Q: What products have you specified from Arbour? 

A: All Sinai Pearl Beige paving products, as this is a fabulous stone to work with! Not just the products but the service provided from ALS is amazing.

Q: What is the positive impact you experience from working with a reliable materials supplier?

A: I know where the products come from and how they are made, Richard is very positive and reliable. ALS have provided us with extremely large orders and not one mistake has ever been made, I have even made orders at 3pm and if it’s urgent Richard and the team at ALS always makes sure it is there usually the next day, sometimes this has meant Richard delivering it to site himself! They go above and beyond at ALS.

If you can think of a garden designer, landscaper, landscape architect, or industry influencer that you'd like to see featured in our spotlight articles, we'd love to hear from you. Simply click the button below to e-mail Anna to nominate someone.