Recently, a client in the Loughborough area approached Worthington Landscape & Design with a common issue: a tired, patchy lawn that was no longer serving as a pleasant outdoor space. The goal was to transform this underused area into a more functional garden featuring a patio for relaxation and planting beds to add greenery and structure.
We started the project by assessing the garden layout and levels. The lawn was uneven in places, with some poor drainage spots that needed addressing before any hard landscaping could begin. Preparing the ground is an important step in ensuring the new patio and planting areas will be durable and long-lasting.
Once the site was cleared, we planned a layout that balanced hard landscaping with soft planting spaces. This included a patio area positioned for maximum sunlight and usability, plus raised beds constructed from railway sleepers to define planting zones and add visual interest. Using sleepers not only provides durability but also offers a neat, structured finish to the garden.
For the patio surface, we discussed options with the client and settled on Indian sandstone slabs. These offer a natural appearance that complements the planting beds. Prices for an Indian sandstone patio typically range from GBP 90 to GBP 120 per square metre for straightforward access and normal ground conditions. Final costs can vary depending on site factors such as levels, drainage, and the complexity of any cuts or falls required.
After confirming measurements and specifications, groundwork was carried out, including levelling the patio area and installing proper drainage to prevent water pooling. Railway sleeper raised beds were constructed at a suitable height, costing between GBP 85 and GBP 140 per linear metre, depending on sleeper grade and installation specifics.
To finish, the planting areas were prepared with quality soil and the patio was laid with care, ensuring a smooth, level surface. The transformation not only improved the garden’s usability but also gave the space a fresh and inviting look.
It's worth noting that projects like these benefit from an initial site visit. Every garden has unique characteristics, and factors such as access, ground levels, drainage, and clearance impact the final scope and price. Worthington Landscape & Design offers a 3D garden design service, ranging from GBP 150 to GBP 450 per project, which can help visualise the finished space before work begins.
If you're considering how a tired lawn can become a usable patio and planting space in Loughborough or anywhere in the East Midlands, a site visit is a good starting point. For a quick quote or to arrange a visit, WhatsApp Aaron on 07454 978031.
WhatsApp Aaron on 07454 978031 to talk through a garden project.