Many gardens in Loughborough and the wider East Midlands start with a tired lawn that no longer meets the needs of the homeowner. Whether it’s due to patchy grass, poor drainage, or simply wanting more functional outdoor space, turning that lawn into a patio and planting area is a practical way to enhance your garden.
At Worthington Landscape & Design, the process usually starts with an on-site visit to assess the existing lawn, ground levels, and access. Understanding the slope and drainage is crucial because these factors determine how we lay out the new patio and planting beds to avoid water pooling or runoff issues.
A typical transformation begins with removing the old turf and preparing the ground. Depending on the garden’s condition, this can include levelling the area and improving drainage. We then install a suitable base for the patio, ensuring it’s stable and long-lasting. For patios, popular materials in this region include Indian sandstone, which offers a natural look at an installed cost ranging from GBP 90 to GBP 120 per square metre, and porcelain slabs, which can cost between GBP 110 and GBP 150 per square metre depending on the choice of finish and cuts.
The layout generally incorporates defined planting spaces adjacent to the patio to soften the hard landscaping and provide year-round interest. Railway sleeper raised beds are often used here as they offer sturdy, attractive borders at a guide price of GBP 85 to GBP 140 per linear metre. The heights and fixing methods can be adjusted based on preference and ground conditions.
In some projects, the garden’s levels are adjusted to create a slight fall away from the house, promoting water runoff and making the patio more usable during wet weather. This may involve cut-and-fill methods and possibly retaining walls, depending on the site’s gradient.
Once the hard landscaping is completed, we turn attention to the planting areas. These include well-prepared beds with fresh topsoil and sometimes new turf where needed to complement the design. Turfing, assuming the ground is already prepared, costs between GBP 18 and GBP 35 per square metre, although any clearance or levelling required is additional.
For clients who want a visual plan before work begins, our 3D garden design service is available between GBP 150 and GBP 450 per project. This helps clarify the layout, material choices, and planting schemes, reducing surprises during installation.
Each project quote considers factors such as garden access, levels, drainage, clearance requirements, and material choices. These elements can all affect the final price, so a site visit is always recommended to provide an accurate quotation tailored to your garden.
If your garden has a tired lawn that’s ready for a practical and attractive makeover, Worthington Landscape & Design offers local landscaping expertise throughout Loughborough and 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.