Marshalls is helping you find garden and driveway inspiration from award-winning designs
Whilst the focus is often on interior fixtures and fittings, the outdoor space of a new build or development is the key to creating a great first impression. Practical but well-designed driveways can set your development apart from others on the market. The option to upsell a garden with a more polished feel and additional features can attract a higher sale price and appeal to those looking for zero work when they move in.
When inspiration is lacking or the client brief is too open, it can be helpful to get ideas from other projects. In this article, we look at award-winning gardens and driveways created by Marshalls accredited installers. These businesses are members of Marshalls Register, a scheme for patio and driveway installers run by the hard landscaping supplier.
Creating a luxury garden with the latest features
Modern new builds and developments can be expertly complemented by a luxurious garden complete with all the mod cons that the budget allows. Current trends are for fire pits, outdoor TVs, hot tubs and open-air kitchens, either in-built or stand-alone features. If space allows, recommend a zoned garden design which creates different areas for different purposes.
When it comes to a luxurious look, porcelain paving is the current favourite; it is loved as much for its low maintenance properties as its smooth, sleek lines and contemporary shades. Porcelain may look slippery, but quality products carry their slip skid rating details. Opt for a minimum rating of R9 for a dry area; if your build includes a swimming pool or hot tub go for a minimum of R11.
Image courtesy of Walker Landscape and Design
Built-in garden features can often come with their challenges and may require a degree of engineering to make them fit in space; this project by Walker Landscape and Design is an excellent example of that. Whilst these builds may require more complex problem solving, the end result can be truly stunning. Make sure you fully understand the scale of the task before committing to specific features such as swimming pools, and always seek further professional advice if it’s not something you have experience of.
When it comes to smaller outdoor spaces, creativity is key, as is understanding how customers would use the area. This garden by installers Signature Landscape Design & Build demonstrates that a modern extension with bi-fold doors onto the garden can be complemented with contemporary porcelain in a pale finish. Adding garden furniture and accessories in similar shades also helps make the area feel more open and less cluttered – a great idea if you’re creating a show garden on a larger development.
Creating unique spaces
If your customer wants to add personality to their garden, there are some great ways to do this. This project by Dawson Landscapes was created for a Formula 1 loving family who wanted something truly unique. The team created the image of an F1 car using two different colours of granite and then produced a porcelain 3D effect of the car going through a tunnel, similar to that at Monaco.
If a statement patio is a touch too far, bespoke features can be created using various materials. Revolution Landscapes created a sunken section to this garden, featuring a bespoke fire pit and a raised cocktail bar area. The stand-out is the feature wall, created using veneer walling and accompanied by dramatic lighting.
Finally, you could recommend a natural stone patio for a subtle but classic approach. Natural stone is durable and timeless, but the natural variation of each slab appeals to people who prefer a less uniform look.
Practical but beautiful driveways
Whilst some people see their driveway as a functional space to park their car, others see it as an opportunity to make a statement at the front of their home. Opt for a design which suits the style of the home, and take your cue from the size of the property as to how many vehicles may need to park there.
CJ Paving
When it comes to driveway design, curved patterns remain popular and can add interest to the space. The design by CJ Paving shows, including pots and planters, is a great way to break up the hard landscaping and attract biodiversity.
While a large driveway can accommodate multiple cars and still leave room for pathways and planting, a smaller space may need a single purpose. However, this doesn’t mean it needs to be dull. Brockstone Landscape Construction used quality natural stone to create a unique pattern, adding interest and value to the property.
Utilise design tools
Whatever the size or requirements of the outdoor space, it pays to thoroughly research ideas and understand the properties of the land you’re working on. Consider using an expert in landscape design for larger developments; some suppliers offer a design service too. Marshalls Register Members have exclusive access to their in-house CAD service and free training courses and sales referrals. They are also the only installers able to offer the Marshalls guarantee on their work. If you’re interested in finding out more about the scheme, you can email registerinstaller@marshalls.co.uk.
For more project inspiration from Marshalls visit https://www.marshalls.co.uk/gardens-and-driveways/completed-projects
