Many gardens in Loughborough and the wider East Midlands contain tired lawns that no longer serve the practical or aesthetic needs of their owners. Recently, we worked on a garden makeover where a worn-out lawn was transformed into a usable patio and planting space, bringing renewed life and function to the outdoor area.
The project began with assessing the existing layout and ground levels. The lawn showed uneven surfaces and poor drainage, making it an obvious candidate for hard landscaping that better suits daily use. We designed a layout that introduced clear zones—an Indian sandstone patio area for seating and entertaining, plus surrounding planting beds created with railway sleepers to add structure and greenery.
Levels were adjusted to create a gentle fall away from the house, ensuring effective water runoff and avoiding pooling on the new patio surface. This involved some excavation and base preparation to provide a firm, stable foundation for the hard landscaping elements. Proper drainage was factored in, which is particularly important in the East Midlands climate where rainfall can be unpredictable.
For the patio finish, Indian sandstone was selected due to its natural look and durability. Typical installed costs for straightforward access and normal ground conditions range between GBP 90 to GBP 120 per square metre. This provides a good balance between quality and budget. The installation included carefully planned jointing and a sealed surface to protect against staining and wear.
The railway sleeper planting beds added height and structure to the garden, priced between GBP 85 to GBP 140 per linear metre depending on sleeper grade and installation complexity. These raised beds allowed for easy maintenance and a defined space for shrubs and seasonal plants, complementing the patio area without overwhelming it.
Where turf was retained or added around the new features, turfing costs ranged from GBP 18 to GBP 35 per square metre, assuming the ground was adequately prepared. Any clearance, levelling or topsoil needed before turfing is priced separately to ensure the best growing conditions.
Throughout the project, the client appreciated the practical approach to design and installation. Where helpful, 3D garden design can be employed, priced between GBP 150 and GBP 450 per project depending on garden size and revisions, to help visualise the layout and finishes before work begins.
If you’re considering a similar transformation in your garden or want expert advice on how a tired lawn can become a usable patio and planting space in Loughborough or the East Midlands, feel free to contact us. Every project is unique, with final quotes depending on site access, ground levels, drainage, and materials chosen, so a site visit is always recommended.
For a site visit or quick quote, WhatsApp Aaron on 07454 978031.
WhatsApp Aaron on 07454 978031 to talk through a garden project.