The brief
This project involved the complete transformation of a family garden terrace at a private home in Beaconsfield. We were delighted to be recommended for the project by Tania at Your Lovely Garden, a talented garden designer with whom we have collaborated on numerous projects over the years. Our long-standing working relationship means we have a strong understanding of each other’s approach, enabling us to deliver seamless, high-quality results.
The clients wanted to replace an ageing and poorly constructed patio with a beautiful, functional outdoor living space that would better suit their lifestyle and complement the overall garden design.
The challenge
The existing terrace had been installed to a very poor standard. The paving materials were unsuitable for the space, and the construction methods used were substandard, resulting in an area that lacked both durability and visual appeal.
The design brief was to completely remove the existing terrace and create a new multi-level outdoor entertaining space that would include:
- Dedicated areas for dining and relaxing
- A bespoke outdoor kitchen
- High-quality natural stone paving
- Traditional detailing and premium finishes
- Strong visual connection with the surrounding garden
A further challenge was the restricted site access. Every piece of demolition waste, construction material and landscaping product had to be moved through a narrow side gate, requiring careful planning and efficient logistics throughout the project.
Our approach
The project began with the careful removal of the existing porcelain paving, various step structures and a large, redundant hot tub that occupied a significant portion of the terrace.
With the site cleared, we installed new structural footings to support the retaining walls that would define the new split-level layout. Once the retaining walls were completed, we constructed the new sub-base and accurately established the finished levels in preparation for the paving installation.
The new terrace was constructed using beautiful Egyptian limestone, chosen for its timeless appearance and exceptional quality. Split-faced wall cladding was incorporated throughout the retaining walls to introduce texture and create a more traditional, elegant finish.
Rather than one large, flat patio, the space was reimagined as two distinct terrace levels connected by multiple flights of steps leading down to the lawn. Each step was finished with carefully installed bullnose treads, adding a refined architectural detail while improving both comfort and safety.
Following completion of the hard landscaping, we meticulously prepared all planting borders, ready for Tania from My Lovely Garden to complete the planting scheme and bring the soft landscaping to life.
A key part of the project was close collaboration with The Outdoor Kitchen Collective, who installed a stunning bespoke outdoor kitchen that perfectly complements the new entertaining space and has become a true focal point of the garden.
The result
The completed garden is a total transformation from the original space.
The new multi-level terrace provides clearly defined areas for entertaining, relaxing and outdoor dining while creating a natural flow between the house and the garden. The combination of premium Egyptian limestone, traditional wall finishes and bespoke detailing has resulted in an elegant outdoor living space that is both practical and visually striking.
Despite the logistical challenges presented by the restricted access, the project was delivered to the highest standards through careful planning, close collaboration and exceptional attention to detail.
Both the client and the garden designer were delighted with the finished result. Jay and his team have really outdone themselves on this project. The standard of workmanship and attention to detail is second to none. This is another project that Thames Valley Landscapes are incredibly proud to have delivered.
Project summary
Location: Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire
Project Type: Luxury family garden terrace
Garden Designer: My Lovely Garden (Tania)
Key Features: Multi-level limestone terrace, retaining walls, bespoke steps, outdoor kitchen, planting preparation
Materials: Egyptian limestone, split-faced wall cladding, bullnose step treads
Collaborators: The Outdoor Kitchen Collective
Outcome: A premium outdoor entertaining space with exceptional craftsmanship and timeless design.
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