Recently, a common request from local homeowners has been how a tired, uneven lawn can be converted into a usable outdoor space, ideally with a patio and planting beds. We worked on a project in the East Midlands where the lawn had suffered from years of wear and minimal care, turning it into a neat, functional garden that better suited the homeowner's lifestyle.
The initial layout focused on creating clear zones – a patio area for seating and entertaining, paired with raised planting beds to add greenery and structure. We kept the overall footprint manageable, taking into account the existing garden boundaries and access points, which made the transition from lawn to landscaped space smoother and more practical.
Levels were a key consideration. The tired lawn was uneven with slight slopes that needed addressing to ensure the patio would be safe and comfortable underfoot. We levelled the ground carefully, adding a sub-base where necessary and making sure falls for drainage were subtle but effective, so water wouldn’t pool.
For the patio finish, the choice was between Indian sandstone and porcelain slabs. Indian sandstone offers natural colour variation and warmth, priced from GBP 90 to GBP 120 per square metre, making it a popular option for those seeking a traditional look. Porcelain, costing GBP 110 to GBP 150 per square metre, has a more contemporary feel and is highly durable but with a higher material cost. Final pricing depends on the specific slab, the amount of cutting, and preparation needed.
Hard landscaping was complemented by raised beds built with railway sleepers, providing a rustic yet sturdy edge to planting areas. The price for sleeper beds typically ranges from GBP 85 to GBP 140 per linear metre, reflecting factors such as sleeper grade and installation specifics. These beds were designed to maximise planting potential while keeping maintenance easy for the homeowner.
To complete the transformation, we considered turfing remaining areas to maintain some green space. Turfing costs around GBP 18 to GBP 35 per square metre, assuming ground preparation is already done, but clearance, levelling and topsoil might add to the cost if required.
Before starting, we offered a 3D garden design service to help the client visualise the changes. This service costs between GBP 150 and GBP 450 depending on garden size and number of revisions. It proved useful for confirming materials, levels, and layout before committing to installation.
It’s important to note that final quotes vary depending on site access, levels, drainage needs, clearance work, and material choices. We always recommend a site visit to assess the area fully and provide an accurate estimate.
If you have a tired lawn in Loughborough or surrounding East Midlands areas and want to explore how landscaping can bring it back to life as a patio and planting space, get in touch for a quick quote or site visit. WhatsApp Aaron on 07454 978031 to start the conversation.
WhatsApp Aaron on 07454 978031 to talk through a garden project.