The Art of Precision: Inside TMI’s Custom Irrigation Design Services

At TMI, irrigation design is more than a service, it’s a craft, refined over decades and powered by people who care deeply about water, land, and legacy.

Irrigation design isn’t a plug-and-play task. It’s a calculated, creative process blending hydraulics, sustainability, and decades of experience to bring life to every inch of ground. Whether you’re overseeing a championship golf course, managing a commercial landscape, or transforming a residential garden, the foundation of a high-performing, water-efficient irrigation system begins with thoughtful, intelligent design.

In this blog, we’re opening the gates to our design department, the thinkers, planners, and technical wizards who make water systems not only work, but thrive.

Why Custom Irrigation Design Matters

It’s tempting to think irrigation is just about laying pipes and setting timers. But in truth, it’s an orchestration of hydraulics, environmental data, user needs, and future sustainability, all brought together through smart planning.

Here’s why professional irrigation design is a non-negotiable investment:

• Efficiency: Smart designs minimise waste, maximise coverage, and lower long-term water bills.
• Performance Longevity: A well-designed system runs longer, breaks less, and scales as your landscape changes.
• Compliance & Quality: Our SABI-certified designers ensure your system meets regulatory and environmental best practices.
• Scalability: From an urban park to a resort estate, great design grows with your needs.

How Our Irrigation Design Process Works

Designing water-efficient irrigation systems at TMI means asking the right questions before laying a single pipe. We blend technical accuracy with tailored creativity, no two systems are ever alike, because no two landscapes are.

Our approach is consultative, comprehensive, and completely tailored to your project. Here’s what working with our design team typically involves:

1. Site Assessment & Goals Discussion

We visit or evaluate your site, gather topographical data, and understand what success looks like for you, aesthetics, budget, timing, functionality, and more.

2. Conceptual Planning & Draft Design

Our designers create an initial concept, mapping out zones, head placements, pipe runs, and control points with water pressure, flow rates, and system type in mind.

3. Hydraulic Calculations & Technical Detailing

Using advanced software, we run detailed hydraulic simulations and create a full technical plan, including valve sizing, lateral layouts, controller specs, and more.

4. Review, Feedback, and Final Plan

We walk you through the design, adapt based on feedback, and finalise a plan ready for installation, whether by our team or yours.

Optional Add-ons:

• Bill of Quantities
• Controller Scheduling
• System Audits & Redesigns
• Long-Term Maintenance Plans

Meet the Minds Behind Our Designs

Now that you’ve seen our approach, meet the experts who bring each plan to life.

We believe that great irrigation design starts with great people, and our team brings a mix of technical expertise, creative thinking, and problem-solving grit to every plan we deliver.

Q&A Spotlight:
Q: How would you describe your role in the design process, and how does it influence the final outcome of a project?
A: My role in the design process is to cater to the client’s requirements.  My responsibilities include evaluating site conditions (such as soil types, water availability/quality and plant types), selecting the best irrigation method (drip, sprinkler, etc.), and ensuring the irrigation system is optimally specified. A well-designed irrigation system reduces water usage, improves plant health and minimises energy consumption. My role ensures that the irrigation project delivers a maximum return on investment for the client, while promoting responsible use of water and energy.

Q: What’s the most technically challenging part of irrigation systems that most people overlook?
A: Water quality and general maintenance of the irrigation system is generally the most challenging. 

Depending on the source, filtration of some means would be needed, groundwater is normally the most challenging as the water chemistry can change throughout the year, making it difficult to treat.  Municipal water in different areas can also be “hard”, which leads to blockages of pipes and sprinkler gearbox failures. 

Lack of maintenance in the long term normally leads to catastrophic failures or wastage of water.  Generally anything with moving parts needs to be serviced and maintained for longevity.

Q: How do you balance innovation with reliability when selecting components or planning layouts?
A: When selecting components or designing layouts, I would prioritize reliability, innovation and supplier support. I also consider product longevity and maintenance replacement costs down the line

Q: In your view, how has the industry changed in the past 10 years?
A: Manufacturers’ innovation has focused a lot more on water efficiency and environmental responsibility over the last few years.  Another big focus has been on SMART controllers, meaning that through various apps on your smartphone, you are able to now control your irrigation system from anywhere in the world.

Q: What’s one technical/design challenge you’ll never forget, and how did your team solve it?
A: Repairing a Golf Control system in a neighbouring country that had been struck by lightning.  With very limited resources (pliers, some wire and insulation tape) we were able to build up a working control unit and then still managed fault find and repair the rest of the control system.

Q: What’s the biggest myth you’ve had to dispel for a client?
A: The biggest myth is that clients believe more water will lead to healthier plants.  Timing and distribution uniformity of the spray are the key factors for healthier plants.  Generally, less water with targeted irrigation leads to overall plant health.Quirky Q: If irrigation systems had personalities, what kind of system would best match yours, and why?
A: I would say I am a SMART Golf Irrigation System – SMART, Efficient and trying to be one step ahead.  SMART means I rely on data, adjust in real time to climate changes, working quietly in the background.

Q&A Spotlight:
Q: Golf courses come with very specific needs. What makes designing for them so unique?
A: Designing for golf course irrigation is unique due to the vast, varied landscape, specific turf requirements, and the need for precise water distribution to maintain playing surfaces and manage water resources responsibly. 

Here’s a breakdown of the unique aspects:

• Extensive and Varied Landscape: 

• Golf courses encompass large areas with diverse terrains, including greens, fairways, roughs, and hazards.
• Each area has specific water needs, influenced by factors like sun exposure, shade, slope, and soil type.
• The design must account for elevation changes, natural water flow patterns, and potential waterlogging or runoff.
• Turfgrass Requirements:

• Different areas of the course (greens, fairways, etc.) require different types of turfgrass, each with varying water needs. 
• For example, greens need firm, consistent surfaces for putting, which can be affected by overwatering. 
• Fairways need to be resilient and playable, also affected by the balance of water and firmness. 
• Precise Water Distribution:
  • Uniform water distribution is crucial for consistent playing conditions and to prevent over or underwatering. 
  • Sprinkler selection, placement, and spacing are tailored to the specific needs of each area. 
  • Advanced systems use sensors, weather-based controllers, and data analysis to optimise water usage and minimise waste. 
  • Systems must be designed to apply varying amounts of water to different areas based on their specific needs. 
• Water Resource Management:
  • Golf courses are often large water consumers, requiring careful management of water sources. 
  • Designs must consider water availability, treatment needs, and adherence to local regulations. 
  • Sustainable practices, such as using recycled water or implementing water-efficient technologies, are becoming increasingly important. 
• Integration and Futureproofing:
  • The irrigation system needs to integrate seamlessly with the existing landscape and infrastructure. 
  • Designs should be adaptable to future changes in the course and evolving water management practices. 
  • Phased installations are common, requiring careful planning to accommodate future expansion.

Q: What’s the one thing most people don’t realise about irrigation on golf estates?
A: A key aspect of golf course irrigation that is often overlooked is the sheer scale and complexity of the irrigation system. While golfers might see occasional sprinklers or valve boxes, they don’t often realize the vast network of pipes, wiring, and sophisticated technology that lies beneath the surface. This network is crucial for maintaining the course’s turf and playability and requires significant maintenance and investment. 

Here’s why this is important:

• Out of sight, but essential:

The irrigation system is the “beating heart” of a golf course, delivering water to the greens, tees, fairways, and roughs. Without it, the course would quickly wither. 

• Complexity and Maintenance:

The system involves hundreds of miles of wiring and thousands of sprinkler heads, requiring expert knowledge and regular maintenance. 

• Cost and Expertise:

Maintaining such a large system requires specialized expertise and can be costly. Many courses hire dedicated teams or consultants to handle this. 

• Water Conservation:

Golf courses are increasingly focused on water conservation, and efficient irrigation systems are vital for this. 

•  Beyond the Obvious:

While some courses are experimenting with less manicured, more natural landscapes, even these benefit from efficient irrigation. 

In essence, the irrigation system is far more than just a few sprinklers; it’s a sophisticated and vital piece of infrastructure that keeps a golf course functioning. 

Q: How do you work with landscaping and turf teams during design?
A: Golf course irrigation and landscaping/turf management teams work together to ensure optimal turf health and playing conditions. The irrigation system is designed and managed to deliver the right amount of water to specific areas, supporting the work of the landscaping and turf management teams in maintaining the course’s aesthetics and playability. 

Here’s how the collaboration works:

• Joint Planning:

The irrigation system design is often a collaborative effort, with input from both the irrigation specialists and the turf management team. This ensures the system effectively addresses the specific watering needs of the different areas of the golf course, considering factors like soil type, grass type, and sun exposure. 

• Watering Schedules:

The irrigation schedule is coordinated with the turf management team’s maintenance schedule. For example, the irrigation system might be programmed to water greens early in the morning, allowing sufficient time for the turf to dry before golfers begin play. 

• Monitoring and Adjustment:

The irrigation system is regularly monitored for proper operation and water distribution. The turf management team provides feedback on the effectiveness of the irrigation, identifying areas that may be too wet or too dry. The irrigation specialists then adjust the system, such as changing sprinkler heads or altering watering times, to optimize performance. 

•  Water Conservation:

Teams are committed to work together to ensure the irrigation system is efficient, minimizing water waste and promoting responsible water usage. This might involve using moisture sensors, adjusting watering times based on weather conditions, and selecting drought-tolerant grass species. 

Q: How do you balance aesthetics, turf performance, and water constraints?
A: Balancing aesthetics, turf performance, and water constraints involves strategic design practices. 

Irrigation Optimisation:

• Utilise technology: Employing rain sensors, soil moisture sensors, and evapotranspiration data can help schedule irrigation effectively, ensuring water is applied only when needed.
• Deficit irrigation: Implementing strategies where water is applied at less than the full water requirement can conserve water while maintaining acceptable turf quality.
• Water harvesting: Collecting rainwater or using recycled water can supplement irrigation needs. 

Q: What’s your proudest project so far?
A: This is a difficult question, having done so many from Savannah type layouts (Serengeti); Mountainous courses (Highland Gate); Bushveld estates (Leopard Creek); Links golf (Atlantic Beach); Historic Olive Grove courses (Kilada Hills, Greece) etc.

However, to choose one I will say the Anahita Golf Estate in Mauritius, It had numerous challenges, used the skills I had and inventing some new ones along the way – extreme challenges such as solid lava rock terrain, Delicate mangrove swamp areas, meandering ancient rock walls and ruins which formed part of the course in-play areas and zero irrigation overspray onto the coastal/beach areas. 

Q: If you had to design a system for Augusta National, where would you start?
A: I should be so lucky…. anyway to design a system for Augusta National, I would start by understanding the core principles that have shaped the course’s unique character and success over time. This includes analyzing the course’s routing, the elevation changes and hazards, and the meticulous attention to detail of the turf management. Quirky Q: If you were a hole on a golf course, which one would you be and why?
A: Many golf courses have what is referred to as a “signature hole“. This is commonly the most memorable, aesthetically pleasing or photogenic hole.

Q&A Spotlight:

Q: As someone designing across both commercial and residential spaces, how do the two differ in your approach? 

A: The approach to commercial and residential irrigation design differs mainly in scale, complexity, and the priorities of the end users.

In commercial projects, the systems are typically larger and more complex hydraulically, often requiring central controls, flow sensing, and hydraulic zoning for efficiency. There’s also a higher emphasis on durability, and long-term operational costs, as these systems often serve public spaces or high-traffic areas and have tendencies to be disturbed by the general public.

Residential systems are more intimate and personalised and are logistically more complex due to the smaller scale and often higher planting density and variety. Homeowners often prioritise aesthetics and ease of use.

The designs for residential are tailored to the specific landscaping vision and often need to balance water efficiency with visual appeal. I also take a more hands-on consulting approach in residential settings, helping guide end users through product selection, controller options etc.

While the principles of good hydraulic design apply to both, commercial systems are about performance and scalability, while residential systems are about usability and personalisation.

Q: What role does sustainability play in the design phase for commercial clients? 

A: It plays a bigger role than most might think, Earth is finite. Those of us who can, must take some responsibility in how we allocate its resources. For me, that’s making sure I don’t waste water.

Sustainability is considered from the beginning of any commercial irrigation design. Clients are now becoming increasingly aware of the need to reduce water consumption, reduce operating costs, and meet new and evolving standards, such as GBCSA (Green building council South Africa) and their green star rating.

When designing, this means specifying water-efficient technologies like weather-based controllers and pressure-regulated heads but also making sure the client understands that my decisions have reasons. The goal is to create a system that uses only the water that’s needed.

Ultimately, a sustainable design doesn’t just benefit the environment, it benefits with long-term savings and a lower maintenance burden for the client, making it both a responsible and commercially smart approach.

Q: What’s your go-to design principle when starting a new project? 

A: I Have 2 principles.

Firstly “fit-for-purpose”; That means every design decision from water source to emitter selection, is based on delivering optimal performance whilst using the least amount of water, low maintenance and operational cost, while still meeting the unique needs of the site.

I start each project by understanding four things:

1. Site conditions (soil type, slope, exposure)

2. Landscape intent (what the client is trying to achieve)

3. Water availability and type (which dictates the hydraulic backbone)

4. Budget constraints.

Once I have that, I design backwards from the plant needs (grouping irrigation zones based on water requirements), then laying out the system to ensure uniform coverage.

My second principle is: “design it as if you’re the client” This mindset is self-explanatory and ensures quality, reliability, and accountability from day one.

Q: What’s the most rewarding part of seeing your design come to life on-site? 

A: It must be being on a site at dawn, just as the sun is rising with a fresh cup of coffee and seeing everything operate, with the morning sun catching the water droplets as they fall to the ground.

The photo opportunity moments.

That’s the stuff that gives you a “pat on the back” and keeps the passion alive.

Q: What tools or data do you rely on most when planning for sustainability? 

A: 1. GIS-based software (such as google earth and CFM) which I use to overlay key site information like topography onto the design. This spatial analysis allows me to make smarter decisions early on, such as identifying high runoff areas, areas that might be prone to pooling or erosion and planning to manage these challenges.

2. Manufacturer literature – particularly precipitation rates, operating pressures and ratings, function and distribution uniformity.

As a designer, it’s crucial to keep up to date with new equipment/moving trends, and the availability of equipment in our economy. To design well, is to make a series of well-informed decisions.

3. Design software (such as AutoCAD) as a Designer, I need to know how to represent my ideas graphically, but not only so that I understand, it’s a set of instructions to whomever is installing, so it must be clear. It’s also an owner’s manual to a client, so it must be understood.

4. My Brain, I don’t like to brag….

Q: What’s one feature homeowners don’t know they need, but always thank you for? 

A: A smart irrigation controller is the feature homeowners rarely ask for but always end up loving.

Many assume irrigation is just “set and forget,” but a smart controller that adjusts run times based on real conditions makes a massive difference. It takes the guesswork out, saves them money, and protects their garden. It’s also nice to be able to turn on your irrigation remotely when you know your spouse/kids are in the garden and are being particularly annoying that day.

It’s a small and inexpensive upgrade but always overlooked.

Quirky Q: If you could install irrigation for any fictional building or movie set, what would it be and why? 

A: I’d choose the coastal town on the Eastern Sea of Pandora, from Avatar 2. The landscape there is unreal (literally), with bioluminescent flora, with a delicate balance between land and sea ecosystems.

Designing an irrigation system for that kind of setting would be all about working with nature, not against it. I’d use passive irrigation techniques such as gravity feeding or rainfall harvesting from the surrounding cliffs. Everything would need to be non-invasive, possibly even camouflaged.

Plus, the plants literally glow and respond to touch. I’d make a disco with the droplets.

Q&A Spotlight:

Q: What’s your process when working with clients who don’t know what they need yet? 

A: Get all site information, site meeting, telephone meeting. Open ended questions, Budgets

Q: Can you walk us through how you go from site inspection to finished design? 

A: Assess the site’s conditions, including topography, soil type, climate, and existing infrastructure. Determine of existing irrigation can be utilized I.E audit of current irrigation system

Gather information on water sources, plant types, and irrigation requirements.

Evaluate data to determine irrigation needs, including water pressure, flow rate, and distribution.

Create a preliminary design based on analysis, considering factors like pipe sizing, pump selection, and emitter placement.

Refine the design based on client feedback, budget constraints, and regulatory requirements.

Produce a detailed, comprehensive irrigation design, including plans, specifications, and bills of materials

Q: How do SABI standards influence your design work?

A: Our initial design always conforms with SABI standards, when the budgets don’t allow for this we redesign with client requests and available monies. If the distribution of water does not meet our standards we walk away.

Q: What makes a truly great irrigation design in your opinion? 

A: Water efficiency, minimizing water waste and optimizing water use.

Design to the specific water requirements of the grass or plants.

Designing the system to minimize maintenance.

Allowing for future adjustments and expansions.

Optimizing pump selection and system design to reduce energy consumption.

Tailored to the specific needs and conditions of the site.

Incorporating sensors, automation, and other technologies to optimize performance.

Q: What small design tweak often makes the biggest impact in a project?

A: Using Decoder controllers instead of conventional wired controllers.

Q: How do you know when a system needs a total redesign versus a smart upgrade? 

A: Total Redesign:

System age and obsolescence: The system is outdated, and components are no longer supported or compatible with modern technology.

Frequent issues and downtime: The system experiences frequent breakdowns, and repairs are becoming increasingly costly.

Inefficient water use: The system is wasting water due to outdated design, leaks, or inefficient components.

Changing landscape needs: The landscape has changed or overgrown in size, requiring a different irrigation approach.

Infrastructure damage: The system’s infrastructure (e.g., pipes, cable, pumps) is damaged or deteriorated beyond repair.

Upgrade:

Specific performance issues: The system has specific issues (e.g., pressure problems, clogged emitters) that can be addressed with specific upgrades.

New technology integration: Upgrading to smart irrigation technologies (e.g., sensors, automation) can improve efficiency and reduce labour.

Water conservation goals: Upgrades can help reduce water consumption without requiring a full redesign.

Minor adjustments: Small changes to the system can improve performance, such as adjusting pipe sizes or adding new components.

Considering factors:

1. System age and condition

2. Water efficiency 

3. Landscape changes

4. Technology advancements

5. Budget and cost-benefit 

Quirky Q: What’s your weirdest site visit story, the one you still tell people at braais? 

A: I have quite a few lol. But arriving on site and three other contractors are on the same site trying to resolve an issue. Safe to say we could sort it out with no comebacks and acquire a future client. 

Who We Design For

Our clients range from homeowners to national golf resorts and corporate estates. Some of the spaces we serve include:

• Golf courses and country clubs: Where we’re currently rolling out one of the most sophisticated irrigation systems in Africa.
• Schools & campuses: Particularly ahead of school holidays, to avoid disruption.
• Residential estates: Where long-term cost savings and aesthetics go hand in hand.
• Agricultural & hydroponic projects: Where precision is critical.

We’re also proud to design for clients who didn’t install with TMI originally but want a second opinion or upgrade, that’s where our system audits come in.

Why SABI Certification Matters

Every lead designer at TMI is SABI-certified. This national accreditation means we uphold the strictest standards in water engineering, sustainability, and project safety, giving you confidence in every drop.

Why Clients Keep Coming Back

Beyond blueprints, what sets TMI apart is our:

• 25+ years of industry leadership
• SABI-certified designers
• National footprint & technical support
• Deep experience across terrain, climates & water regulations
• Long-term partnerships built on results
• And of course, our people.

Irrigation System Audits & Redesigns

Got an existing irrigation system but unsure if it’s performing optimally?
We offer standalone system audits where we:

• Inspect your current setup
• Test pressure, flow, and zone health
• Identify leaks or inefficiencies
• Recommend improvements or reconfiguration

Whether you need a fresh system or a second opinion, our irrigation design team is ready to help you make every drop count.

Ready to Talk Design?

Whether you’re nurturing championship turf or a front garden, custom irrigation design is where success begins. Let our team of certified designers, thinkers, and tinkerers turn your water challenges into lasting solutions.

Let’s make sure your irrigation starts smart, stays efficient, and grows with your vision.

Contact the TMI Design Team