Client brief:

Clients initially contacted us to design a garden for their new-build property in Upper Caldecote, Bedfordshire, where the lawn lacked proper topsoil.  However, the house builders provided only a small paved area on muddy clay soil, leaving clients frustrated with constant mud and poor accessibility. As well as their young dog walking mud indoors daily, making the situation even more difficult and reinforcing the urgent need for a practical solution. The compacted clay soil prevented drainage, and waterlogged conditions left the garden unusable for months, especially during prolonged periods of wet weather.

As a result, we needed to take significant action to improve conditions by removing the existing lawn and excavating the heavy clay soil. Then, we replaced the excavated clay with nutrient-rich, high-quality topsoil to create a more stable foundation for future landscaping and planting. Meanwhile, the clients envisioned a spacious terrace for entertaining guests while ensuring a durable, manageable lawn for their dog’s enjoyment all-year-round.

To enhance both function and beauty, our clients want a stunning steel pergola as a focal point visible from the kitchen window. In addition, we installed elegant porcelain paving to provide a sleek, mud-free surface, making outdoor gatherings effortless and enhancing the overall design.

Now, our clients are thrilled with their transformed outdoor space and eagerly await springtime, when vibrant planting will complete the scheme beautifully. Looking ahead, in spring 2025, we will introduce pollinator-friendly perennials in soft hues, further attracting birds, insects, and natural beauty.

We will share photographs after the planting so please do come back as we continue sharing updates and showcasing the progress of this flourishing outdoor retreat over the next months.

You can find out more about our new-build garden design service and the design process here.