Project brief

We were tasked with a complete full garden transformation.

Our customers Jayne and John had a large grassed area they wanted to transform into a low maintenance entertaining area with lots of interest.

They had their hearts set on decking, with gravel and two seating areas.

Here’s what we came up with!

We started by clearing the existing grass and preparing the ground with proper sub-base works to ensure any new surfaces are stable and last well. The design we developed features larch decking and a pergola, offering a shaded seating zone that provides structure and height, helping to break up what had been a flat, open area. The decking gives a warm, natural feel, while the pergola adds character and a place for climbing plants or lights in future.

To complement the decking, two distinct seating areas were incorporated. One is more informal, nestled in gravel, ideal for casual gathering or a coffee in the morning. The second is more formal, set on granite paving, perfect for dining. The contrast between the clean, polished pavers and the textured gravel adds visual interest and creates a flow through the garden.

We used 20 mm bean gravel around the more relaxed seating spaces. Its rounded texture is gentle underfoot and provides great drainage, while its colour tones help tie together the larch timber, charcoal setts, and natural stone used elsewhere. For edging and detail we chose charcoal granite setts, giving definition to paths and border edges, helping to guide the eye and keep the design looking sharp and maintained.

In areas where planting was planned, we created raised beds and structured flower borders, selecting plants with different heights, leaf textures and seasonal interest, so the garden has appeal throughout the year. Lighting was subtly integrated into the pergola and along paths so that the space feels welcoming even once the sun goes down.

Throughout the project, attention was paid not just to how beautiful each part would be, but how they work together: transitions from decking to gravel to paving are smooth, maintenance is minimised, and the layout encourages movement, gathering, and tranquillity. The result is a garden that feels much larger, more dynamic, and much more usable than before.

The results

Project summary…

This garden transformation in Shelford turned an underused lawn into a stylish and functional outdoor living space. The design combines larch decking and a pergola to create a focal seating area, complemented by a formal granite patio and a relaxed gravel zone for versatility. Charcoal granite setts provide crisp edging, while 20 mm bean gravel introduces texture and warmth. Raised beds and carefully planned planting add seasonal colour and structure, making the space inviting throughout the year. Subtle lighting ensures the garden can be enjoyed day and night, resulting in a modern, low-maintenance design that balances beauty with practicality.