Kingston garden transformation
Objective
To transform a previously limited and unsafe patio into a spacious, elevated outdoor living area. The project aimed to maximise the garden’s square footage, enhance safety, and create a stylish, modern space for relaxation and entertainment.
Initial conditions
This rear garden in Kingston had become disjointed and underused over time. Areas of old paving and patchy lawn competed for space, planting lacked definition, and boundaries felt exposed rather than cohesive. Although the plot was generous for a London terrace, the layout did little to encourage movement or relaxation, and views from the house offered no clear focal point.
Client brief
The homeowners wanted a full transformation that would create a brighter, more contemporary outdoor space suitable for both everyday use and occasional entertaining. Low maintenance was important, but they also wanted warmth and greenery rather than a purely hard-landscaped finish. Privacy and clearer structure were key goals, alongside a design that would feel inviting throughout the year.
Process highlights
Design approach
The new layout introduced clearer zoning and stronger visual anchors so the garden felt organised rather than fragmented. Defined planting beds were created using timber sleeper edging to introduce natural texture and structure, while open lawn areas were reshaped to improve balance and usability.
Paving materials were selected to provide contrast without overpowering the planting, allowing greenery to remain central to the overall character. Plant choices focused on reliable year-round performance, mixing evergreen structure with seasonal colour so the garden would remain attractive without demanding intensive upkeep.
Expansive raised porcelain patio – serving as the centrepiece of the garden. High-quality porcelain tiles were used to create a sleek, contemporary look, offering both durability and ease of maintenance. The patio includes built-in planters, which introduce greenery and soften the hardscaping. The elevated aspect adds depth and dimension, making the garden feel larger and more defined.
Redesigned steps for improved safety – The original patio had dangerously steep steps, which were redesigned to provide a safer and more comfortable transition between garden levels. The new design ensures easy access to the raised patio area, addressing previous safety concerns.
Maximising garden square footage with planting and turfing – The garden’s footprint was optimised through careful reworking of the planting areas and lawn. Fresh turf was laid to create a soft, open area for relaxation, while a new planting scheme added texture, colour, and structure. The arrangement of plants complements the modern patio, achieving a balanced blend of hard and soft landscaping.
Spacious relaxation area – The transformation resulted in a large, versatile relaxation space ideal for outdoor dining, socialising, or unwinding. The combination of the raised porcelain patio, new lawn, and vibrant planting ensures the garden is visually appealing and highly functional.
Construction details
Existing surfaces were removed and the ground re-levelled to establish clean lines and consistent falls. New paving was laid on a reinforced sub-base for durability, while sleeper borders were securely installed and filled with enriched topsoil to support healthy plant establishment. Boundary fencing was repaired and treated to create a cohesive backdrop, ensuring the garden felt enclosed and intentional rather than pieced together.
Outcome
The completed garden now feels open, balanced and far more welcoming. Clearly defined planting zones soften the hard landscaping, while improved proportions make the space easier to navigate and enjoy. What was once a tired and inconsistent layout has become a calm, functional outdoor extension of the home; suitable for quiet evenings, informal gatherings and everyday family use alike.