About

Born in the early 70s, I grew up in a small village on the outskirts of a rather provincial town in southwest Germany. Suburban country living and the freedom to step outdoors was something I always took for granted. Digging the vegetable plot and harvesting fruit with my grandfather—who would, in turn, produce schnaps, preserves, juices, and jams from the garden and orchard—was just part of everyday life.

After finishing school with A-levels in French, Fine Art, and Biology, I took over looking after my mother’s garden while waiting for a place to open for my civilian service. It was during this time that I discovered my passion for planting design and gardens. I went on to study Landscape Architecture at the University of Paderborn, Germany, specialising in Garden Design and Green Spaces, and graduated with distinction.

Throughout my studies, I gained hands-on experience in various roles, from labouring in a small nursery to working with landscape architects and ecologists in practices across Kaiserslautern, Frankfurt (Germany), and Rennes (France). I travelled extensively, visiting and studying hundreds of gardens, particularly in Germany, France, Italy, and the USA, and at times, I contributed articles to the German garden magazine Garten Praxis.

After gaining some work experience in Germany, I decided to move to the UK to finally visit the famous English gardens I had admired throughout my studies. A Postgraduate Year and Diploma at Leeds Metropolitan University proved to be a great and inspiring experience, allowing me to explore the many beautiful gardens and landscapes across the UK, particularly in Yorkshire.

In 2000, I co-founded my first garden design business, and since then, I have worked on projects of all scales and styles. From small courtyards and front gardens (some as compact as 3x3m) to expansive two-acre landscapes, I have designed gardens across London, Manchester, Cheshire, Wales, and the North of England, as well as in Edinburgh, Scotland. My work has also taken me to mainland Spain, Mallorca, France, and back to Germany—a welcome opportunity to reconnect with family and friends.

My first-ever show garden at the RHS Flower Show at Tatton Park (2001) was awarded a Silver-Gilt Medal. In subsequent years, I designed multiple show gardens for the Concept for Living Design Shows, earning the title of ‘Garden Designer of the Year’ in 2002, 2004, and 2005, as voted by the readers of Concept for Living Magazine.

In 2008, I was invited to write a series of garden design editorials for Homebuilding & Renovating Magazine. That same year, I established my own independent practice, Marco A. Schrang Garden Design Ltd, allowing me to focus more closely on each project and build stronger, more personal relationships with my clients.

Even after decades of experience, I still love the challenge that comes with every new project. Each garden is unique, shaped by its setting, style, and, most importantly, the personalities and visions of its owners.

I look forward to meeting you.