At Worthington Landscape & Design, we often get asked how a tired lawn can become a usable patio and planting space. Recently, we worked on a project in the East Midlands that perfectly illustrates this transformation. The client had a lawn that was patchy and underused, and they wanted a more practical outdoor space for relaxing and gardening.
The first step was to assess the existing layout and levels of the garden. The lawn area was fairly flat but showed signs of wear and compaction. We needed to create a subtle division between patio and planting zones while ensuring sensible drainage and good flow through the space. This helps the new design feel both functional and natural.
After discussing options, the client chose Indian sandstone for the patio area. This material works well in the Loughborough area for its durability and classic look. Depending on the type of sandstone selected, our typical guide price runs between £90 and £120 per square metre. This price assumes straightforward access and normal ground conditions. However, it’s worth noting that the final quote depends on access, levels, drainage, ground clearance, material specifications, and a site visit.
For the planting space, we proposed raised beds made from railway sleepers. These not only add structure and height variation but also make gardening easier by reducing the need to bend down. Railway sleeper raised beds typically cost between £85 and £140 per linear metre, based on sleeper quality, the fixing method, height, and the preparation needed for the ground.
Once the layout was confirmed, we prepared the area by removing the tired lawn and levelling the ground. Proper preparation is key to a successful patio to ensure long-term performance and avoid drainage issues. For anyone considering turfing elsewhere in the garden, prices usually range from £18 to £35 per square metre, assuming the ground is already prepared. Additional clearance, levelling, or topsoil work will add to this cost.
The installation process included setting appropriate levels to allow water to run off without pooling. A slight fall away from the house and planting areas means the garden remains both attractive and practical throughout the seasons. This careful approach to levels is something we highlight during site visits to make sure every project is tailored to the location.
Finally, the completed garden looked transformed. The new sandstone patio offered a clean, stable surface for outdoor furniture, while the railway sleeper raised beds added greenery and interest. The combination made the formerly tired lawn much more usable, attractive, and easy to maintain.
If you’re considering how to make better use of an underperforming lawn in Loughborough or the wider East Midlands, a site visit is a good place to start. We can discuss your outdoor goals, assess the space, and provide a tailored quote. For a quick chat or to arrange a visit, you can WhatsApp Aaron on 07454 978031.
WhatsApp Aaron on 07454 978031 to talk through a garden project.