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:
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- A fully level garden despite the slope
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- Porcelain paving as a must-have finish
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- Space for entertaining and seating at both the front and rear of the garden
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- A safe, practical layout for grandchildren to ride bikes and play
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- 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:
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- Porcelain paving and wall copings, bullnosed on site for a bespoke edge detail
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- A blockwork retaining wall finished with a black quartz split-face tile
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- 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:
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- French drainage
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- A soakaway
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- 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
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- A fully level, low-maintenance garden built to last
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- A substantial drainage solution eliminating previous issues
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- Practical seating, play space, and entertaining areas
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- 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.
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