Bishopstoke Sandstone Paving & Turfing Project OCT 2025
Case Study: Sandstone Paving & Turfing – Bishopstoke Project Overview This Bishopstoke project focused on rebalancing a medium-sized garden that lacked greenery and felt visually flat. The space was dominated by loose stone, which had become impractical and messy — particularly due to its position beneath a mature oak tree. The client wanted a more natural, usable garden that could be enjoyed for entertaining and gardening, while still being simple and low maintenance. The Brief The existing garden was made up of approximately 80% loose stone, which constantly mixed with fallen leaves and debris from the oak tree overhead. This made the space difficult to maintain and limited how it could be used. The client’s goals were straightforward: Introduce significantly more green into the garden Create a natural, softer feel Provide a small seating area for entertaining and quiet use Improve usability when guests visit There were no strict material demands — the focus was on balance, practicality, and a timeless finish. Design & Planning We provided a full design for the project, centred around maximising lawn space while retaining a defined area for seating. The final layout featured: A lawn forming the majority of the garden A small sandstone patio positioned at the end of the garden Clear separation between functional zones without overcomplicating the space The patio was designed as a quiet spot for entertaining, reading, or relaxing, while the lawn delivers the greenery and openness the garden was missing. Build Challenges Access to the garden was restricted, making it difficult to get machinery in and out efficiently. However, with careful planning and experience, we were able to overcome these access limitations without compromising the finish or causing disruption. Materials & Key Features Natural materials were selected to enhance the softer, more organic feel of the garden: Natural sandstone paving supplied by Natural Stone & Timber High-quality turf supplied by Acre Lawn Turf A key detail within the project was a hidden manhole cover seamlessly integrated into the lawn, maintaining a clean, uninterrupted appearance without sacrificing access or functionality. Drainage Considerations Drainage was not an issue on this project, allowing us to focus entirely on layout, finishes, and usability rather than remedial groundworks. The Result The transformation has brought colour, life, and balance back into the garden. Where loose stone once dominated, there is now a green, natural space that feels welcoming and far more usable. The garden is better suited to entertaining, gardening, and everyday enjoyment, with a clear improvement in both aesthetics and practicality. Client Outcome A greener, more natural-feeling garden Defined areas for seating and entertaining Improved usability when hosting guests A clean, thoughtful finish with attention to detail All works were completed within a single weekend — something we’re particularly proud of — delivering a fast turnaround without compromising quality. Planting has been left for the client to complete themselves, allowing them to personalise the space over time. Transform Your Outdoor Space Schedule Your Free Consultation Today and Start Your Project! Experienced team ready to bring your vision to life. High-quality materials ensuring durability and style. Beautiful designs tailored to your property needs. Book Now
Whiteley Porcelain Paving Project JAN 2025
Case Study: Porcelain Paving Installation – Whiteley Project Overview This Whiteley project focused on completing and refining a porcelain paving installation within a medium-sized garden. The client had already begun the project themselves, completing approximately 30% of the paving, but due to time constraints and the complexity of the installation, they needed a professional finish to bring the project together properly. The brief was clear: a clean, contemporary paving installation with precise detailing, suitable for entertaining, and completed to a high professional standard. The Brief The client wanted a garden space designed primarily for entertaining, with a crisp, modern aesthetic and a layout that allowed safe and easy access throughout the garden. Key requirements included: A professional porcelain paving installation A contrasting grey border running around the entire paved area A clean, single-tiered layout with a side access path A high level of finish, particularly around architectural features Attention to detail was a priority, ensuring the finished space looked cohesive, balanced, and purpose-built rather than part-completed. Design & Planning The overall design was already established when we became involved, allowing us to focus on execution rather than redesign. Our role was to assess the existing work, ensure it could be integrated correctly, and deliver the remainder of the project to a consistent professional standard. The final layout remained single-tiered, with a defined side path to maintain clear access and flow through the garden. Build Challenges This project presented several technical challenges. Curved sections around bay windows required careful setting out and precise cutting to maintain clean lines and symmetry. Additionally, substrate levels on the left-hand side of the garden needed adjustment. To achieve the correct build-up, the substrate was lowered to allow for a substantial sand and cement bed, ensuring the porcelain paving would be fully supported and perform long-term. Through experience and skill, we were able to navigate these challenges while maintaining accuracy and efficiency throughout the installation. Materials & Key Features Premium materials and detailing were central to the finished look: Contemporary white porcelain paving (600×900) Contrasting anthracite grey porcelain border (300×900) running around the full perimeter Stainless steel narrow drainage channel to prevent surface water pooling Bespoke detailing was carried throughout the project, including mitred corners and a brick bond laying pattern, adding subtle character and elevating the overall finish. Drainage Considerations While drainage was not a major issue on this project, stainless steel channel drains were installed as a preventative measure. This ensures surface water is managed effectively and avoids pooling in key areas, protecting both the paving and usability of the space. The Result The finished garden is a clean, contemporary, and highly usable outdoor space, completed to a professional standard from edge to edge. What began as a part-finished project is now a cohesive, well-executed installation that fully meets the client’s original vision. The client now has a smart, practical area ideal for entertaining, dining, and safe access throughout the garden. Client Outcome A professionally completed porcelain paving installation Crisp detailing and consistent finish throughout Improved usability for entertaining and everyday access A clean, modern garden space delivered efficiently The client was delighted with both the quality of the workmanship and the speed at which the project was completed — a result we were particularly proud of. Transform Your Outdoor Space Schedule Your Free Consultation Today and Start Your Project! Experienced team ready to bring your vision to life. High-quality materials ensuring durability and style. Beautiful designs tailored to your property needs. Book Now
Swanmore Complete Garden Renovation DEC 2025
Case Study: Complete New Build Garden Renovation – Swanmore Project Overview This Swanmore project involved the complete renovation of a small new build garden that was struggling with drainage issues, uneven levels, and limited usability. The client wanted a high-quality, low-maintenance outdoor space that could be enjoyed daily, provide a safe area for their grandchildren to play, and work equally well for entertaining friends and family. Despite the garden’s significant natural slope, the brief was clear: a clean, simple design finished entirely on one level, executed properly with no compromises. The Brief The existing garden was largely unusable. Poor drainage meant the space regularly held water, the sloping layout limited how the garden could be used, and there was no practical area for seating or for children to play safely. The client’s key requirements were: A fully level garden despite the slope Porcelain paving as a must-have finish Space for entertaining and seating at both the front and rear of the garden A safe, practical layout for grandchildren to ride bikes and play Minimal ongoing maintenance Simplicity was important, but so was quality — the design needed to look effortless while being technically correct beneath the surface. Design & Planning We provided the client with three design options, allowing them to fully understand how the space could work and choose the layout that best suited their lifestyle. The final design focused on creating one continuous level throughout the garden. Paving was designed to wrap around a central lawn area, allowing uninterrupted access and creating a flowing “track-like” route around the garden — perfect for children’s toys and bikes, while also making maintenance and movement effortless. Seating areas were positioned at both the front and rear of the garden, ensuring the space could be enjoyed at different times of day. Build Challenges This project came with several challenges. Ground conditions and the existing layout required careful structural planning, and the garden’s natural slope needed to be addressed without compromising the clean, level finish the client wanted. On top of this, the project was completed through particularly difficult weather conditions, including prolonged rain, snow, and high winds. Through experience, careful sequencing, and sheer persistence, we were able to overcome these hurdles and deliver the project to the standard expected. Materials & Key Features High-quality materials were used throughout to ensure longevity and a premium finish: Porcelain paving and wall copings, bullnosed on site for a bespoke edge detail A blockwork retaining wall finished with a black quartz split-face tile A full retaining wall around the rear perimeter of the garden to manage levels The retaining wall not only resolves the level change but also doubles as informal seating and a place for pots and planting, adding both practicality and visual interest. Drainage Solution Drainage was one of the most important elements of this project. To ensure long-term usability, we installed a comprehensive system combining: French drainage A soakaway ACO channel drainage This multi-layered approach provides a more than substantial solution, ensuring surface water is effectively managed and the garden remains usable all year round. The Result The finished garden is a highly functional, visually striking outdoor space that feels calm, balanced, and easy to use. What was once an awkward, sloping and waterlogged area is now a level, free-draining garden that works for everyday life. The client now has a space they can use daily, entertain family and friends, and enjoy watching their grandchildren play safely — all while adding significant aesthetic and financial value to their home. Planting has been left for the client to complete themselves, allowing them to put their own stamp on the final touches over time. Client Outcome A fully level, low-maintenance garden built to last A substantial drainage solution eliminating previous issues Practical seating, play space, and entertaining areas A premium finish that complements the property and adds value Most importantly, the client was absolutely over the moon with the finished result — and so were we. Transform Your Outdoor Space Schedule Your Free Consultation Today and Start Your Project! Experienced team ready to bring your vision to life. High-quality materials ensuring durability and style. Beautiful designs tailored to your property needs. Book Now
