Recently, I worked on a landscaping project in Loughborough where the client wanted to convert a tired, uneven lawn into a more usable outdoor space. The aim was to create a patio area alongside planting zones, providing both functionality and visual appeal. This kind of transformation is a common request in East Midlands landscaping and is well within the scope of what I offer as a sole-trader landscape designer.
The project began with a thorough site visit to assess the existing levels, ground condition, access routes, and drainage. The lawn was quite worn in places and suffered from unevenness that limited its usability. To create a practical patio space, I proposed adjusting the levels slightly to ensure falls for drainage and comfortable step-free access from the house.
In terms of layout, the design utilised a rectangular footprint for the patio, adjacent to raised planting beds made from railway sleepers. These sleepers not only add a natural and sturdy edge to the planting areas but also help define the space clearly between hard and soft landscaping elements. The beds are perfect for seasonal plants or low-maintenance shrubs, providing structure and colour throughout the year.
For the patio surface, the client chose Indian sandstone, a popular material in the East Midlands due to its durability and warm natural tones. Indian sandstone patios typically cost between GBP 90 and GBP 120 per square metre for straightforward installations. The price can vary depending on the complexity of the site, required falls, and preparation work. We ensured the bases were well compacted and laid with a mortar bed to extend the patio's longevity.
Alongside the patio, the project included some turfing where the lawn remained. Turfing usually costs between GBP 18 and GBP 35 per square metre, excluding ground clearance and preparation, which we factored into the overall work. The freshly laid turf complemented the paved areas, softening the garden’s edges and creating a balanced environment.
Volumetric considerations were important on this project to avoid overly steep steps or awkward level changes. A gentle drop from the backdoor to the garden was maintained, ensuring a safe and accessible outdoor space. Where height changes were necessary, sleeper walls doubled as both retaining and planting features, a cost-effective way to manage levels while adding a design focal point.
Throughout the project, I emphasised the importance of proper drainage and ground preparation. Without adequate falls or drainage channels, patios can become waterlogged, and plants in raised beds might struggle. This is why all projects require a site visit to accurately quote based on the site specifics including access, levels, drainage, material specifications, and clearance.
If you are considering how a tired lawn can become a usable patio and planting space in Loughborough or the wider East Midlands, I recommend starting with a 3D garden design to visualise the layout and materials. My 3D garden designs range from GBP 150 to GBP 450 depending on garden size and revisions, which helps avoid surprises during installation and makes the process smoother.
Transforming an overgrown or tired lawn into a functional and attractive outdoor space doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right planning, materials, and attention to detail, even small gardens can benefit from patios and raised planting areas that enhance usability and aesthetics.
For a site visit or a quick quote on your landscaping project, please WhatsApp me, Aaron, on 07454 978031. I’m happy to discuss options for patios, railway sleeper planting beds, turfing, and more across the Loughborough and East Midlands area.
WhatsApp Aaron on 07454 978031 to talk through a garden project.