From Tired Lawn to Modern Urban Oasis: A Summer Garden Transformation
How we turned a difficult, patchy front garden into a clean, structured and low-maintenance space using hardy planting and sustainable materials.
Some gardens don’t need a full redesign — they just need a fresh, thoughtful reset. This summer, we were asked to transform a front garden that had become worn out, overgrown and impossible for the homeowner to keep tidy. The patchy turf and compacted soil meant the garden lacked structure and year-round interest.
The front lawn before work began — patchy, uneven and difficult to maintain.
The brief was simple:
Make it low-maintenance
Introduce a clean, modern look
Use reliable planting for long-term impact
Create a welcoming entrance with better kerb appeal
Here’s how we brought this space back to life.
Removing the Old Lawn & Preparing the Ground
Lifting the old turf and clearing the ground for a fresh start.
We began with a full turf and weed removal, levelling the ground to create an even foundation. With a clean slate, we installed high-quality weed suppressant membrane to dramatically reduce future maintenance and ensure a long-lasting, tidy finish.
To provide strong edges and keep gravel areas crisp, we installed corten steel edging, which will weather naturally into a warm rust tone — perfect against the brick façade and gravel.
Fresh Decorative Gravel for a Clean, Contemporary Look
Warm gravel brightening the space and creating a tidy, uniform finish.
We applied warm decorative gravel across both sides of the path, immediately brightening the front of the property. Gravel is an ideal choice for busy households because it:
suppresses weeds
improves drainage
stays tidy year-round
complements contemporary and traditional homes alike
The corten edging frames the gravel neatly and gives the entire garden a structured, professional appearance.
Formal Lavender ‘Hidcote’ Hedging for Structure and Scent
Formal Lavender ‘Hidcote’ laid out before planting.
To soften the path and introduce a strong, elegant structure, we planted rows of Lavandula angustifolia ‘Hidcote’. This compact English lavender is perfect for formal hedging and thrives in the gravel’s free-draining conditions.
Hidcote was chosen because it:
produces deep violet flowers
stays compact and tidy
supports bees and pollinators
responds well to yearly trimming
In time, the lavender will knit together into a low, fragrant hedge guiding visitors to the front door.
Hydrangea arborescens ‘Annabelle’: Softness and Seasonal Drama
Hyndangea arborescens ‘Annabelle’ for seasonal drama.
To introduce height and summer interest near the house, we planted Hydrangea arborescens ‘Annabelle’ — known for its large, creamy white globes and reliable performance in Scottish weather.
Annabelle is ideal for front gardens because it:
• flowers generously from mid-summer
• tolerates shade or full sun
• offers soft contrast to hard landscaping
• stays tidy and architectural in winter
Its lush foliage and bold blooms add a touch of elegance to the clean gravel layout.
Sustainable Mulching with Mixed Woodchip
Premium mixed woodchip supplied by Stevenson Tree Care.
Around the hydrangeas and foundation planting, we applied mixed woodchip mulch supplied by Stevenson Tree Care. This mulch helps:
retain moisture
improve soil structure
suppress weeds
reduce watering needs
Using locally sourced woodchip also keeps materials low-impact and supports circular, sustainable gardening.
The Final Result: A Bright, Structured, Low-Maintenance Garden
The completed garden — modern, tidy and built to thrive.
The transformation is dramatic. The space is now:
clean and modern
easy to maintain
structured with formal lavender hedging
softened with hydrangea planting
sustainably mulched
framed with corten steel for long-term neatness
As the lavender matures and the Annabelle hydrangeas bulk up, the garden will only become more striking year after year.
Thinking About Transforming Your Own Garden?
From full gravel transformations to planting design, low-maintenance makeovers and sustainable landscaping, we can help you create a garden that works beautifully for your lifestyle.
