A lot of gardens around Loughborough feature lawns that have seen better days. Often patchy, uneven, or simply too small to be practical, these lawns can be transformed into more usable outdoor spaces. One popular approach is to replace the tired grass with a hard landscaping patio complemented by raised planting areas, creating a balanced and attractive garden layout.
The first step in this kind of project is assessing the existing garden levels and layout. Lawns may slope away or towards the house, and it’s important to ensure that any new patio has the correct fall for drainage. Typically, we look for a 1:80 to 1:100 fall away from the building to avoid water pooling or damp issues. The patio layout generally fits neatly with the shape of the garden, making the most of the space available without compromising planting areas.
In this example, we designed a zoned layout where the patio occupies roughly half of the garden footprint, creating a solid, low-maintenance surface ideal for outdoor furniture and entertaining. Indian sandstone or porcelain slabs are commonly chosen finishes. Indian sandstone patios usually range between £90 and £120 per square metre installed, suitable for straightforward ground conditions. Porcelain is pricier, typically £110 to £150 per square metre, reflecting material quality and installation specifics such as cuts and falls.
Once the patio area is defined, the remaining space can be turned into planting beds. Railway sleeper raised beds are a popular and robust choice in the East Midlands landscaping scene. Prices vary, but you can expect around £85 to £140 per linear metre depending on sleeper quality, height, and ground preparation. Raised beds help with soil control and can provide a neat boundary between hard and soft landscaping.
Ground preparation for these projects includes clearing the existing turf, which can either be reused or disposed of depending on condition. Levelling work will be needed to create a stable, flat base for patios; this includes laying a sub-base for drainage and durability. If turfing is involved elsewhere, costs typically run from £18 to £35 per square metre once the ground is ready, but any extra clearance or soil improvement will be quoted separately.
For customers unsure about the final garden layout, 3D garden design can be invaluable. This service usually costs between £150 and £450 depending on garden size and how many revisions are needed. A detailed design helps visualise the flow of different levels and materials before work begins, ensuring the outcome fits both lifestyle and budget.
Keep in mind that final quotes always depend on site-specific factors such as access, slope, drainage, clearance, and choice of materials. A thorough site visit is crucial before committing to any fixed price, and adjustments are often required once work starts.
If you’re considering turning your tired lawn into a practical patio and planting space here in Loughborough or around the East Midlands, I’m happy to discuss your ideas and provide a quick estimate. For a site visit or a no-obligation quote, please WhatsApp Aaron on 07454 978031.
WhatsApp Aaron on 07454 978031 to talk through a garden project.