Tired lawns are a common feature in many gardens across Loughborough and the wider East Midlands, often struggling with patchy grass and uneven surfaces. Addressing these issues can create valuable outdoor living spaces that enhance both the look and usability of your garden. Recently at Worthington Landscape & Design, we completed a project transforming a worn lawn into a practical patio and planted area, and here is how we did it.
The first step involved assessing the existing garden layout and levels. The old lawn was uneven and no longer suited the homeowner's needs. We discussed options with them, settling on a design that introduced a durable patio area paired with raised planting beds to improve both aesthetics and functionality. Using 3D garden design helped visualise these changes before any groundworks began.
To create a usable space, the site was cleared of turf and any debris. We then regraded the ground to ensure proper drainage and a level base for the patio. Good drainage is crucial, especially in the East Midlands where rainfall can be high, to avoid future water pooling or damage to the paving.
For the patio surface, the choice was between Indian sandstone and porcelain slabs. Indian sandstone, typically installed between GBP 90 and GBP 120 per square metre, offers a natural finish and is well-suited to most garden styles. Porcelain, costing roughly GBP 110 to GBP 150 per square metre, provides a sleek, low-maintenance alternative with more colour options but can require more intricate cutting and preparation. The final choice depends on personal taste and budget.
In this project, Indian sandstone was selected for its durability and natural look, complementing the garden’s overall style. The patio was laid with gentle falls to ensure water runoff, and the edges were neatly finished to integrate with the planting areas.
Raised beds built from railway sleepers added height and structure to the planting zones. Railway sleeper beds typically cost between GBP 85 and GBP 140 per linear metre depending on sleeper grade and installation method. These beds help to define the space and offer easy maintenance, with soil depth that supports a wide range of plants.
After the hard landscaping was set, new turf was laid in remaining lawn areas to refresh the green space. Turfing costs GBP 18 to GBP 35 per square metre assuming the ground is prepared; additional costs may apply if levelling, clearance or extra topsoil is needed.
Each stage was carefully planned and executed to produce a functional layout that met the client’s lifestyle needs while enhancing the garden’s aesthetics. We encourage any homeowner in the East Midlands with a tired lawn to consider such a transformation, which can add usable outdoor space and increase property appeal.
For those contemplating similar work, a site visit is essential to provide an accurate quote and address specific details like access, drainage, levels, and material preferences. Quotes for patios, raised beds, and full landscaping vary based on these factors.
If you’d like to discuss how a tired lawn can become a usable patio and planting space in Loughborough or elsewhere in the East Midlands, contact Aaron at Worthington Landscape & Design. For a site visit or quick quote, WhatsApp Aaron on 07454 978031.
WhatsApp Aaron on 07454 978031 to talk through a garden project.