When our clients in Walthamstow approached us, they wanted to transform their tired garden into a modern, low-maintenance space that would work year-round. The brief was clear: create something contemporary that felt both practical and inviting.
We started with the foundation – light grey porcelain paving that now covers most of the garden. Porcelain was the perfect choice here because it's incredibly durable, doesn't fade, and stays looking clean with minimal effort. The large format tiles create that seamless, expansive feel the clients were after.
One of the trickier parts of this job was dealing with an existing manhole cover right in the middle of the patio area. Rather than working around it, we recessed it flush with the paving surface. It's now completely invisible unless you know where to look – exactly what you want in a modern garden design.
To break up the hard landscaping and add some warmth, we introduced a Yellow Balau decking area. This rich-toned timber creates a natural contrast against the cool grey porcelain, and it's become the go-to spot for morning coffee or evening drinks. The decking sits slightly raised, which helps define different zones in the garden while keeping everything feeling connected.
For drainage and visual interest, we used large pebbles as a central feature. They're not just decorative – they channel water away from the main patio area while adding that organic texture that softens all the hard surfaces. It's a practical solution that looks intentional and modern.
The finishing touch was the Corten steel bed edgings. These weathered steel borders give the planting areas a crisp, defined edge while adding that industrial-chic element. They've already started developing that characteristic rust patina, which will only get better with time. The steel edges are tough enough to handle anything the British weather throws at them, and they create a sophisticated contrast with both the natural decking and the clean porcelain.
The result? A Walthamstow garden that's now a proper outdoor room – stylish, easy to maintain, and usable in all seasons. The combination of materials works because each one has a clear purpose, and together they create a space that feels both contemporary and comfortable.
