Contemporary garden – Surbiton

Objective

• Use of mint fossil Indian sandstone for a contemporary terrace
• Creation of a bespoke timber pergola
• Contemporary relaxation and dining area for everyday family use
• Materials and detailing that sit comfortably with the Victorian semi

Initial conditions

Light, or rather the lack of it, defined this Surbiton garden. The rear space of a Victorian semi was dominated by a dark, ageing concrete patio that absorbed what little sunlight reached it. Uneven levels caused minor pooling near the house and the absence of structural planting left the space feeling flat and smaller than its true footprint. From the kitchen window the garden looked tired and visually heavy, despite the property itself having been recently refurbished.

This project involved a full back-garden renovation, replacing the ageing patio and unsafe fencing with a contemporary Indian sandstone terrace, new planting areas and a secure boundary. The aim was to create a practical, attractive outdoor space that could be enjoyed throughout the year while improving safety and overall garden usability.

Client brief

The homeowners wanted a contemporary outdoor space that felt calm and elegant, not showy. They needed practical seating for everyday use and occasional entertaining, with materials that would age well and planting that would remain attractive without constant upkeep. Importantly, the garden had to respect the character of the Victorian house rather than clash with it.

Design approach

Patio replacement. The original concrete patio was removed and replaced with approximately 120 square metres of mint fossil Indian sandstone paving. Mint fossil was chosen for its pale, warm tone and natural variation, which works particularly well against London stock brick. A contrasting red brick edge detail frames the stone and introduces warmth and definition, and the finished surface is durable and slip-resistant, suited to outdoor dining, seating and everyday family use.

Timber pergola. Rather than introducing multiple competing features, the design focused on one clear architectural move: a bespoke timber pergola that creates a defined outdoor room and gives the terrace a sense of enclosure without closing it in.

Planting. The planting was kept structured but soft, using clipped Ilex crenata for evergreen form alongside looser ornamental grasses and lavender to bring movement and seasonal scent without visual clutter.

Fence replacement. The existing fence had begun to collapse and was no longer secure. We installed new close-board fence panels and posts, improving privacy, structural stability and the overall appearance of the garden boundary.

Contemporary relaxation area. The focus of the design was to achieve comfort and style. This space includes a seating area with modern outdoor furniture for lounging and entertaining and a dedicated dining space for alfresco meals and gatherings. The garden has become a versatile area for both relaxation and socialising.

Despite the modern update, the design maintains a respectful balance with the Victorian semi’s architecture. The choice of materials, colours and design elements ensures that the new features blend seamlessly with the traditional character of the property. The result is a contemporary garden that feels integrated with its historical context.

Description of works

The renovation was delivered in clearly defined stages to ensure quality and minimal disruption:

• Removal and responsible disposal of the old concrete patio
• Ground preparation, levelling and installation of a compacted sub-base
• Precise laying and jointing of Indian sandstone paving
• Brick edging installation for contrast and durability
• Removal of unsafe fencing and installation of new close-board panels
• Construction of bespoke timber pergola, including foundations and roof structure
• Planting installation: clipped Ilex crenata structure, ornamental grasses and lavender
• Final tidy, clean and client handover

Results

The garden now reflects light back into the house and feels considerably wider despite unchanged boundaries. The pergola creates a focal point without overwhelming the modest scale, and the planting provides year-round structure with gentle seasonal change. What was once visually heavy is now calm and balanced, a space used daily rather than simply viewed through the window.