A common scenario in Loughborough gardens is a tired, patchy lawn that doesn’t get much use. Recently, a client approached Worthington Landscape & Design wanting to change this. Their garden was underwhelming, with limited functionality and uneven levels making maintenance tricky. The goal: turn the lawn into a usable patio space combined with attractive planting areas for year-round interest.
The project began with a site visit to assess access, ground condition, drainage, and the slope of the garden. Understanding these factors is vital for a successful landscaping project, especially in the East Midlands where clay soils and variable weather can pose challenges. This also allowed us to propose practical layout options and decide on appropriate levels that would enhance usability and minimise water pooling.
We recommended removing the tired turf and excavating to create a flat foundation suitable for a hard landscaping surface. For the patio, Indian sandstone was selected for its natural look and durability against the local climate. The guide price for this type of patio typically ranges from GBP 90 to GBP 120 per square metre in straightforward conditions. Final pricing considers site specifics like access and ground preparation.
To complement the patio, raised planting beds were constructed using railway sleepers, which provide a rustic charm and practical height for easy planting and maintenance. Pricing for sleeper beds varies based on the timber grade and construction method but generally falls between GBP 85 and GBP 140 per linear metre. These beds added structure to the garden and created defined zones for shrubs and seasonal flowers.
Levels were carefully adjusted to ensure the patio surface was even, safe, and had a slight fall to direct rainwater away from the house. Drainage was factored in to prevent standing water, which can damage paving and cause garden upkeep issues. This attention to detail helps preserve the finish and functionality of the outdoor space over time.
For the planting areas, suitable soil preparation was applied, with removal of any poor turf and the introduction of quality topsoil. This step is essential but costs will vary depending on clearance and ground condition. Where needed, turfing could be kept around the perimeter or other areas, with typical pricing between GBP 18 and GBP 35 per square metre.
In some cases, clients opt for a 3D garden design before work starts to visualise the finished space. For a project this size, costs would typically lie between GBP 150 and GBP 450, depending on garden size and revisions. This can be a helpful tool to finalise layout and material choices, ensuring confidence before installation begins.
This type of garden transformation turns an underused and worn lawn into a practical, low-maintenance patio and planting zone ideal for outdoor living. By combining hard landscaping with timber features and thoughtful planting, the space becomes more functional and attractive throughout the year in Loughborough and the wider East Midlands.
If you have a tired lawn that could benefit from a change or want to explore options for improving your outdoor space, Worthington Landscape & Design offers practical advice and local expertise. For a site visit or quick quote, WhatsApp Aaron on 07454 978031 to discuss your project.
WhatsApp Aaron on 07454 978031 to talk through a garden project.