Family garden transformation – Surbiton
Objective
To blend practicality with style by using a thoughtful combination of natural and artificial materials. The transformation aimed to create a versatile outdoor space that offers both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits.
Initial conditions
This family garden in Surbiton had the space and scale to be a real outdoor extension of the home, but its layout was disjointed and underused. Existing paving was broken and uninviting, the lawn struggled in places and planting lacked focus and structure. There was no clear sense of flow between the house and the garden, meaning the space felt underwhelming and rarely used to its full potential.
Client brief
The family wanted a garden that worked hard for everyday life — comfortable and practical for children, sociable for adults and easy to care for. A stronger connection between the house and garden was important, alongside distinct zones for play, dining and relaxation. Materials needed to be durable and low-maintenance but still warm and welcoming in appearance.
Key features:
- Introduction of sleeper borders
- Creation of new planting scheme
- Introduction of mixed lawn turf and artificial grass for sports
- Addition of limestone stepping stones
Process highlights
Design approach:
The design introduced a more organised layout with clear functional areas that sit comfortably together. A generous paved terrace was placed immediately outside the house to create a seamless outdoor living zone, with easy access for dining, BBQs and day-to-day use. Beyond this, the lawn was reshaped to create a more generous play area, framed by planting that balances year-round structure with seasonal colour.
Borders were defined with contemporary edges and layered planting so the garden felt lush without becoming fussy. Choices were made for reliability and performance, giving greenery that supports character and movement without demanding constant attention.
Timber sleeper borders – these were strategically installed to frame the garden and delineate various planting areas. These borders provide a robust structural element, adding definition and a natural, rustic charm. The sleepers create distinct zones within the garden, making it easier to organise and manage different planting sections. Their earthy tones and textures enhance the garden’s overall aesthetic, blending seamlessly with both natural and artificial elements.
Fresh planting scheme – this was introduced to complement the timber borders and enhance the garden’s visual appeal. This carefully curated selection of plants was chosen for its vibrant textures and rich colours, bringing life and energy to the garden, an emphasis was on Southern hemisphere to be familiar with clients heritage. The planting scheme adds layers of interest with contrasting foliage and seasonal blooms that provide dynamic beauty throughout the year, supporting biodiversity and adding a touch of nature’s elegance to the space.
Traditional lawn turf and all-weather artificial grass combination – The garden’s surface was transformed with a combination of traditional lawn turf and all-weather artificial grass. The natural lawn turf provides a lush, green area ideal for relaxation, and general outdoor enjoyment. The artificial grass was selected for its durability and low-maintenance benefits, making it perfect for sports and recreational activities – in this case daily and all year round football and cricket practise. This blend ensures that the garden remains functional and visually appealing, accommodating both leisurely use and more active pursuits.
Limestone stepping stones pathway – this was incorporated into the design, adding both style and functionality. The stepping stones create a visually appealing route through the garden, linking different areas while providing a practical solution for navigating the space. Their natural texture and colour complement the timber sleepers and turf, tying the various elements of the garden together. The stepping stones are also easy to maintain and durable, making them a practical choice for high-traffic areas.
Construction details
Existing surfaces and tired lawn were removed, the ground re-levelled and a durable base prepared for the new terrace. Hard landscaping was laid with clean lines to enhance flow and durability for family use. Lawn areas were improved with suitable topsoil to support establishment and resilience, and planting beds were prepared with enriched soil to help new plants settle quickly. Contemporary edging and sleeper features helped articulate zones and guide circulation through the garden.
Outcome
The transformed garden now feels cohesive, functional and inviting. The terrace provides a distinct outdoor living area that works for both everyday moments and social gatherings. The improved lawn delivers a reliable play space for children, and the planting frames each zone with texture and seasonal interest. What was once a fragmented garden is now a well-balanced outdoor room that supports relaxed family life without high maintenance demands.