At Worthington Landscape & Design, we recently worked on a project that took a tired, uneven lawn in the East Midlands and transformed it into a practical, low-maintenance patio and planting space. This project reflects how thoughtful landscaping can breathe new life into a garden that no longer serves its purpose effectively.
The starting point was a lawn that had become patchy and difficult to maintain. The client wanted to create an outdoor area that was both usable and attractive—a space for summer seating and gardening without the constant upkeep of a grass lawn. We suggested replacing sections of the lawn with a patio and raised planting beds using railway sleepers.
In our initial planning stage, we worked with 3D garden design (available from £150 to £450 depending on garden size and revisions) to visualise the new layout. This allowed us and the client to refine levels and planting areas, ensuring the new design would complement the existing garden features and provide good drainage and access.
The final layout included a patio area paved with Indian sandstone slabs, providing a natural finish that blends with the East Midlands surroundings. Indian sandstone patios typically cost between £90 and £120 per square metre for straightforward installations, though this can vary depending on site access, ground levels, preparation, and drainage requirements.
We introduced gentle level changes using railway sleeper raised beds along the patio edges, which offer cost-effective planting solutions priced between £85 and £140 per linear metre. The raised beds not only add visual interest but also improve soil condition and accessibility for planting, ideal for a range of flowers or shrubs.
The project required clearing the existing grass and rubble, grading the soil, and ensuring proper falls to avoid pooling water on the patio. We also levelled areas where turf was retained or re-laid, charging typically £18 to £35 per square metre, with clearance and soil preparation priced separately based on site conditions.
Hard landscaping works, including the laying of the patio and installation of sleepers, demand careful attention to drainage and groundwork. Final quotes depend largely on site specifics such as soil type, levels, access, and material choice. We always recommend a site visit to assess these factors in detail before confirming pricing.
Throughout the project, we maintained a focus on practical but aesthetically pleasing outcomes suited to local tastes in Loughborough and the broader East Midlands area. The end result is a garden that feels more spacious, easier to maintain, and much better suited to the client’s lifestyle.
If you have a tired lawn that could benefit from a thoughtful redesign into an enjoyable patio and planting space, Worthington Landscape & Design can help with personalised advice and reliable installation. For a site visit or a quick quote, WhatsApp Aaron on 07454 978031 to discuss your garden requirements.
WhatsApp Aaron on 07454 978031 to talk through a garden project.