Working with a tired lawn that no longer meets your outdoor needs is a common challenge in gardens across Loughborough and the wider East Midlands. Many homeowners find that their grassed areas become patchy and difficult to maintain, leading them to consider more versatile landscaping options. A well-planned patio combined with attractive planting spaces can revitalise your garden, enhancing usability and appearance all year round.
Our recent project involved transforming a worn-out lawn area into a practical patio and personalized planting beds. The client wanted to create a low-maintenance outdoor space while keeping a natural, welcoming feel. The initial step was a thorough site visit to assess access, soil condition, drainage, and levels, factors integral to ensuring long-term durability and usability.
We collaborated on the layout, balancing a spacious Indian sandstone patio with bordered planting beds made from railway sleepers. The use of natural stone provided a warm, textured finish, while the timber sleepers offered structure and height variation for the planting areas. The final layout incorporated gentle level changes to suit the site’s existing contours, improving drainage and visual interest.
Patio installation cost typically ranges between GBP 90 and GBP 120 per square metre for Indian sandstone, depending on access and ground conditions. Porcelain options are available at a higher price bracket, from GBP 110 to GBP 150 per square metre, if a harder-wearing, contemporary finish is preferred. Our project used Indian sandstone due to its classic appearance and suitability for the East Midlands climate.
The railway sleeper raised beds cost between GBP 85 and GBP 140 per linear metre, influenced by sleeper grade, height, and fixing method. These beds were designed to provide distinct zones for flowers and shrubs, creating a lush border that complements the stone patio. Proper ground preparation and fixing were essential to ensure the beds remain stable and long-lasting.
Working with levels was an important part of the design. The lawn area had minor slopes that were regraded slightly to create level patio surfaces while facilitating natural water runoff. We avoided excessive excavation to keep costs manageable and reduce disruption to the garden’s ecosystem.
Planting areas were designed to be manageable yet diverse, allowing for seasonal interest and low maintenance. The combination of hard landscaping with soft planting creates a balanced space that can be enjoyed by families or for entertaining guests.
For those considering a similar transformation, a 3D garden design service is available, typically priced between GBP 150 and GBP 450 depending on garden size and revisions. This helps visualise the layout and materials before work begins, ensuring the finished space matches expectations.
Every landscaping project is different. Final pricing depends on specific factors like site access, ground levels, drainage concerns, clearance needed, and material specifications. We recommend a site visit to provide an accurate, no-obligation quote tailored to your garden's unique needs.
If you want to turn your tired lawn into a practical, attractive patio and planting space in Loughborough or the East Midlands, contact Worthington Landscape & Design. For a site visit or quick quote, WhatsApp Aaron on 07454 978031.
WhatsApp Aaron on 07454 978031 to talk through a garden project.