Transformations We're Proud Of

The Challenge

The garden had been left untouched for over seven years. Invasive species had taken hold throughout the borders, the soil was heavily compacted and deficient in nutrients, and a failing drainage system caused waterlogging across the entire lower third of the plot.

Our Approach

• Full site clearance including removal of invasive Japanese knotweed under licence
• Installation of a French drain and soakaway system to resolve waterlogging
• Soil conditioning with 80 tonnes of organic matter and sharp sand
• New curved herbaceous borders planted with lavender, foxgloves, alliums and salvias
• Timber sleeper raised vegetable beds with irrigation pipework
• Seeded wildflower meadow strip along the northern boundary

The Outcome

The client now enjoys a beautiful, structured garden that requires minimal maintenance while supporting local pollinators. The drainage solution has completely eliminated the waterlogging issue.

The Challenge

The lawn had suffered years of heavy use combined with poor maintenance. Soil compaction to 25mm depth prevented root development. A significant chafer grub infestation had killed large areas of turf, and the pH was too acidic at 5.1 for healthy grass growth.

Our Approach

• Nematode application for biological chafer grub control across entire lawn area
• Deep hollow-tine aeration to 200mm depth using professional machinery
• Heavy scarification removing 60mm of thatch in two passes
• Top dressing with 8 tonnes of sandy loam and seed blend
• pH correction using calcified seaweed to raise to 6.5
• Six-stage fertiliser programme over the growing season

The Outcome

After six weeks the lawn achieved a dense, even sward of premium ryegrass and fescue blend. The client has maintained the results with our ongoing quarterly care programme.

The Challenge

The trees had not been managed in over fifteen years. Several major limbs had developed significant decay identified through aerial inspection and resistograph testing. The canopy had extended over the property's roof and was causing damage to the guttering. A Tree Preservation Order required all works to be pre-approved by the local authority.

Our Approach

• Full arboricultural survey report submitted to Elmbridge Borough Council for TPO consent
• Aerial rigging and sectional dismantling of the most hazardous overhanging limbs
• Crown reduction of 25% on the oak using natural target pruning methodology
• Deadwood removal throughout the silver birch and sycamore canopies
• Crown lifting to 5m clearance on all three trees
• Full ivy removal and bark treatment, with woodchip mulching of root zones

The Outcome

Light levels in the garden increased dramatically. All three trees retained their character and long-term structural integrity. The client received a full aftercare report and a recommended re-inspection schedule.

The Challenge

The existing 1980s concrete slab was structurally compromised with significant heave caused by tree root ingress. The new design needed to incorporate drainage for a neighbouring property, meet Building Regulations for the permanent outdoor structure, and be completed within a tight two-week window ahead of the client's planned garden party.

Our Approach

• Full demolition and excavation of existing slab with root barrier installation
• Type 1 MOT sub-base compacted to 150mm with vibrating plate
• Laying of large-format 900x600mm Marshalls Symfonia porcelain in anthracite
• Construction of built-in BBQ island in concrete block with Bradstone cladding
• Stainless steel Kamado Joe inset grill, preparation surfaces and storage
• LED outdoor lighting, exterior power sockets and gas point installation
• Integrated surface water drainage channel connected to existing soakaway

The Outcome

Completed one day ahead of schedule. The new space has tripled the usable outdoor entertaining area and added significant value to the property. The client has since booked us to design the surrounding planted borders.

The Challenge

The front garden was dominated by a pair of 6-metre leylandii conifers that had been improperly planted decades earlier. They were consuming all available space, light and nutrients, and were causing damage to the Victorian boundary wall. The pathway had subsided and needed full reconstruction.

Our Approach

• Stump grinding and removal of two 6m leylandii conifers
• Reconstruction of front boundary wall in reclaimed yellow stock brick to match
• New herringbone block paving pathway in charcoal and buff to complement the Victorian facade
• Planted box hedging along front boundary with gate opening framed by Portuguese laurel standards
• Two Olea europaea (olive trees) in large terracotta planters flanking the front door
• Lavender, rosemary and festuca grass planting scheme for year-round structure

The Outcome

The property's kerb appeal was dramatically improved. The estate agent estimated an uplift of £15,000–£20,000 in property value and the project was featured in a local property magazine.

The Challenge

The plot was in a typical new-build state — heavily compacted by machinery, full of concrete rubble and construction waste, and with no topsoil whatsoever. The garden needed to serve multiple purposes: adult entertaining, safe children's play, and look immediately mature and established. The budget was fixed and the clients were moving in within four weeks.

Our Approach

• Full site clearance, rubble removal (12 tonnes) and ground remediation
• Import and lay of 200mm quality topsoil across the entire plot
• Multi-level composite decking with glass and cable balustrade system
• Sunken aggregate seating area with reclaimed railway sleeper edging and central gas fire pit
• Premium artificial grass lawn with safety-grade rubber crumb infill for children's play area
• Immediate-impact planting: specimen grasses, photinia hedging, bamboo screen and seasonal bulbs
• Full perimeter fence installation with integrated outdoor LED strip lighting

The Outcome

The garden was handed over on day 27, three days early. Despite starting from bare earth, the use of specimen plants and instant hedging created an established, lush look from day one. The clients rated the project 5 stars and recommended us to three neighbours, two of whom have since become clients.