Sandstone patio and planting – Sheen
Scope
The starting point here was a failing concrete patio that had simply reached the end of its useful life. Cracks had widened, levels had dropped and water routinely pooled against the rear wall of the house after rain. The surface was stained beyond recovery and had become a genuine trip hazard. Beyond the practical issues, the patio felt completely disconnected from the recently refurbished Edwardian property, visually dragging the garden backwards while the house had moved on.
Client brief
The clients wanted a natural stone patio that would sit comfortably with the age of the house rather than fight it. Longevity mattered more than speed, and they were clear that drainage needed to be corrected properly rather than disguised. The space needed to support outdoor dining for extended family while leaving enough garden beyond for lawn and planting.
Description of work
Design approach
Material choice did most of the heavy lifting here. Mint fossil Indian sandstone was selected for its warm, honeyed tones and natural variation, which soften with age rather than deteriorate. The patio was proportioned to suit the garden rather than dominate it, with bullnose edging creating a refined transition into lawn areas. A discreet linear drainage channel was incorporated along the house wall so that water would be intercepted before it could cause future issues.
Construction details
The original concrete slab was mechanically broken out and excavated to allow proper sub-base construction. A fully compacted MOT Type 1 foundation was installed in layers to prevent settlement on the underlying clay, followed by a sharp sand screed to establish accurate falls. Calibrated sandstone slabs were laid with consistent joints and mortar pointing, while the drainage channel was connected into the existing system to ensure reliable runoff management even during heavy rainfall.
Results
The completed patio feels settled and appropriate to the Edwardian architecture rather than newly imposed. The stone warms visually in sunlight and provides a stable, level entertaining surface that the previous concrete never achieved. Drainage issues have been eliminated, and the garden now flows naturally from the house rather than stopping abruptly at the threshold. It is used regularly for dining and gatherings, and the material will continue to improve in appearance as it weathers rather than degrade.
Our Approach
At Flourish Landscaping, we prioritise understanding our clients’ garden visions. With decades of experience, we collaborate closely to bring their dreams to life, aligning every aspect with their objectives, preferences, and budget.
Offering a wide range of services, from hardscaping to softscaping, we create elegant elements like paving and decking while curating lush plant selections for a comprehensive landscape solution.
Our tailored consultations cater to each client’s unique needs, defining goals, exploring design styles, and addressing budget constraints and challenges. With our expertise, every project results in an exceptional outdoor space that exceeds expectations.
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If you’re considering a patio installation, you might be interested in reading our blog about the difference between porcelain and stone patios.