Many homeowners in Loughborough and across the East Midlands face the challenge of a tired, patchy lawn that doesn’t offer much in terms of use or appeal. This project write-up illustrates how such a lawn can be transformed into a usable patio area combined with planting space, giving the garden a fresh, practical new look.
The key to this kind of landscaping work is in the layout and levels. In this project, the original lawn was uneven and lacked definition, so careful ground preparation was the first step. Level changes were incorporated to help with drainage and to create interest, such as slightly raised planting beds alongside the patio, all designed to suit the natural slope of the garden.
For the hard landscaping element, Indian sandstone was selected due to its durability and attractive natural colours. The patio was laid at a straightforward level to maximise usability while allowing space for planting around the edges. Indian sandstone typically costs between GBP 90 and GBP 120 per square metre installed, depending on site conditions like access and drainage requirements.
In addition to the patio, railway sleeper raised beds were included to add structure and planting depth. These beds provide a rustic, natural boundary to the planting areas and help separate the patio space from the lawn remnants. Railway sleepers generally range from GBP 85 to GBP 140 per linear metre, with price influenced by sleeper grade, height, and installation methods.
The planting zones were designed to be low maintenance yet visually pleasing, complementing the sandstone patio and bringing seasonal interest. Where extra greenery was desired, turfing was done around the new patio and beds, with turf costs from GBP 18 to GBP 35 per square metre—note this assumes the ground was suitably prepared before laying the turf.
A 3D garden design was commissioned to visualise the final outcome before any work began. This approach helps clarify layout and material choices and typically costs between GBP 150 and GBP 450 depending on garden size and revisions needed. Investing in this step can save time and prevent misunderstandings later on.
It's important to bear in mind that final prices depend heavily on factors such as site access, existing ground levels, drainage, clearance work, and specific material selections. A site visit is always recommended to provide an accurate quote and ensure the proposed design fits the location perfectly.
This transformation demonstrates how a worn-out lawn doesn’t have to be a lost cause. With practical landscaping solutions tailored to your garden's characteristics, you can create an outdoor space that’s both attractive and functional for everyday use.
Whether you’re considering a full redesign or just want to explore options to improve a tired lawn, Worthington Landscape & Design offers hands-on experience across the East Midlands. For a site visit or quick quote, WhatsApp Aaron on 07454 978031.
WhatsApp Aaron on 07454 978031 to talk through a garden project.