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Cost Guide

How Much Does a Garden Redesign Cost in the UK (2025 Guide)

January 2025 8 min read
Garden Redesign Cost UK

Your outdoor space has real potential — but before proceeding, many homeowners ask: How much will a full garden redesign cost in the UK in 2025? This guide breaks it down clearly, so you can make confident decisions.

Introduction

Updating your garden can transform your home — adding usable space, boosting value and creating a setting you love. But cost is always a driver. Throughout 2025, UK homeowners searching for "garden redesign cost UK" are looking for clarity.

In this article we'll explore the main cost components, what affects pricing, and how you can get an instant online quote from us.

Main Cost Components

  • Design & Preparation – Before any turfing, patios or lighting, the design phase sets the layout, materials and schedule.
  • Labour – Skill, time and access matter. UK labour rates vary region to region.
  • Materials – Stone, decking boards, lighting fixtures and artificial turf all carry wide ranges.
  • Features / Extras – Water-features, pergolas, full lighting systems, built-in seating all escalate cost.
  • Site Conditions & Access – Sloped sites, restricted access, removal of existing structures will increase cost.

Typical Price Ranges (2025 UK)

Basic Makeover (Small Garden, <40 m²)

Turf + simple patio + low-maintenance planting

£4,800-£9,600

Mid-Range Redesign (40-80 m²)

Decking + lighting + fencing upgrade

£9,600-£18,000

Premium Redesign

Large garden, high-end materials + full lighting + bespoke features

£18,000+

What Drives Higher or Lower Costs

  • Material quality (premium natural stone vs standard slab)
  • Complexity of design (straight vs curved lines, raised beds, levels)
  • Feature count (lighting, built-in seating, fire pit)
  • Labour region (urban London vs rural UK)
  • Aftercare & maintenance requirements

How to Get a Fast, Accurate Estimate

Thanks to our AI-powered quote engine you can:

  • Enter your postcode
  • Provide garden area size
  • Select features (decking, patio, lighting etc)
  • Get an immediate estimate range + breakdown

No waiting weeks for a visit.

Detailed Cost Breakdown by Feature

  • Artificial Turf Installation: £48-£96 per m² (including sub-base and installation)
  • Porcelain Patio: £72-£132 per m² (premium material, long lifespan)
  • Natural Stone Patio: £60-£108 per m² (authentic look, requires sealing)
  • Composite Decking: £120-£180 per m² (low maintenance, 25-30 year lifespan)
  • Timber Decking: £60-£96 per m² (natural aesthetic, annual maintenance)
  • Garden Lighting (full system): £1,200-£3,600 (LED, smart control, professional installation)
  • Fencing (close-board): £60-£96 per linear metre (1.8m high, posts, installation)
  • Pergola/Gazebo: £2,400-£7,200+ (size dependent, custom-built)

Regional Price Variations Across the UK

Labour and material costs vary significantly by region. Here's what to expect in 2025:

  • London & South East: Expect 20-30% higher costs than national average. Premium for skilled labour and logistics.
  • Midlands (Birmingham, Nottingham, Leicester): Around national average. Good balance of quality and value.
  • North West (Manchester, Liverpool): 5-10% below national average. Competitive market.
  • South West (Bristol, Exeter): Similar to Midlands, slight premium in Cornwall/Devon due to travel.
  • Scotland & Wales: Generally 10-15% below London pricing, but remote areas may incur access fees.

Hidden Costs to Consider

Many homeowners overlook these additional expenses:

  • Waste Removal: £240-£600 for skip hire and disposal
  • Soil/Hardcore Delivery: £180-£480 depending on volume and access
  • Drainage Solutions: £600-£2,400 if poor drainage is discovered
  • Tree/Stump Removal: £240-£1,200 per tree depending on size
  • Planning Permission (if required): £240 application fee + consultant costs
  • Utility Relocation: £480-£2,400+ if cables/pipes need moving

Money-Saving Tips

  • Book in winter/early spring: Lower demand = better rates (save 10-15%)
  • DIY the preparation: Clear existing plants/structures yourself
  • Choose mid-range materials: Composite over timber, porcelain over natural stone
  • Phase the project: Do essentials now, lighting/extras later
  • Simplify design: Straight lines cost less than curves and circles
  • Good access saves money: Side gate access avoids carrying materials through house

Typical Project Timeline

Understanding the timeline helps plan around weather and events:

  • Design & Quote: Instant (with AI) or 1-2 weeks (traditional)
  • Planning Permission (if needed): 8-12 weeks
  • Small Garden (< 40m²): 5-10 working days
  • Medium Garden (40-80m²): 2-3 weeks
  • Large/Complex Project: 4-8 weeks
  • Best months to start: March-June or September-October (avoid winter ground frost)

When Planning Permission is Required

Most garden projects don't need permission, but check for:

  • Decking/patios over 300mm high covering >50% of garden
  • Outbuildings exceeding 4m² near boundaries
  • Listed buildings or conservation areas (always check first)
  • Changes affecting shared/party walls or boundaries

Why You Should Budget Realistically

Under-estimating cost leads to scope creep, unfinished works or compromises on materials. Over-budgeting means you may delay or avoid starting. Using a professional, data-driven estimate avoids surprises and allows proper financial planning—whether paying upfront or spreading costs.

Ready to See What Your Garden Redesign Could Cost?

Use our instant quote tool now, and get a breakdown tailored to your garden.

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