How to Transform Your Garden After a House Extension.

Whether your garden was an afterthought, a construction dumping ground, or simply overlooked in the budgeting process, it’s now time to focus on your outdoor space. After all, what’s the point of a stunning new extension if the view outside is an eyesore?

So, you’ve just completed a house extension. You’ve spent months (or even years) planning, building, and refining your new space, investing tens—if not hundreds—of thousands of pounds to create a beautiful home that meets your needs. But now, as you step back and take it all in, you realise that the view from your shiny new extension is… less than inspiring.

If you’re at the planning stage of your build, it’s wise to allocate some of your budget to the garden now—you’ll thank yourself later! But if the extension is already complete and you’re wondering what to do next, don’t worry. Here’s how to transform your garden into a space that enhances your new home.

Start with a Plan

Before jumping into landscaping, take a step back and assess the space. Consider the new layout of your home and how your garden needs to function alongside it. Ask yourself:

• How will the new extension impact the way you use your garden?
• What’s the main view from inside, and how can it be improved?
• Do you need a patio or seating area to connect indoor and outdoor spaces?
• Will you need privacy from neighbors or shade at certain times of the day?

A well-thought-out design will ensure that your garden not only looks great but also serves a purpose that complements your lifestyle.

Prioritise the Space Immediately Outside Your Extension

In most cases, the garden area directly outside your new extension is the most critical. This is the space you’ll see every day, and it’s likely to become the transition zone between your indoor and outdoor living areas. Consider creating a patio or decked area that seamlessly connects to your new space, using materials that tie in with your extension for a cohesive look.

For example, if your extension features sleek modern finishes, large-format porcelain tiles or smooth sandstone paving might be the best choice. For a more traditional feel, natural stone or reclaimed bricks could create a charming, timeless aesthetic.

Think About Materials and Finishes

Choosing the right materials for your hardscaping is key to ensuring a harmonious connection between your home and garden. Some things to keep in mind:

• Consistency is key – Use similar colors and textures to your extension for a seamless transition.
• Durability matters – Outdoor materials need to withstand weather conditions, so opt for high-quality paving, decking, and planters.
• Low-maintenance options – If you don’t want to spend every weekend cleaning or maintaining your garden, choose materials that require minimal upkeep.

Consider the View from Indoors

Your garden should look just as good from the inside as it does when you’re in it. Think about focal points and how to create a visually pleasing scene from the most-used rooms in your house. This might include:

• A feature tree or statement planting to draw the eye.
• A well-positioned bench or water feature to add interest.
• Layered planting with different heights and textures to create depth.

Lighting: What Will It Look Like at Night?

A beautifully designed garden shouldn’t disappear once the sun goes down. Thoughtful outdoor lighting can enhance the space and create a warm, inviting atmosphere in the evenings. Consider:

• Pathway lighting to guide the way.
• Wall lights to highlight architectural features.
• Spotlights on trees or planting to create depth and drama.
• Subtle deck or patio lighting for a soft, ambient glow.

Not only will lighting improve the aesthetics of your garden at night, but it will also extend the usability of the space, allowing you to entertain and relax outdoors even after dark.

DIY or Hire a Professional?

While it might be tempting to take on the garden transformation yourself, landscaping can be more physically demanding and time-consuming than many expect. From excavation and drainage to paving and planting, a professional design and build landscaping company can help bring your vision to life efficiently and with expert craftsmanship.

If budget constraints are a concern, consider breaking the project into phases, prioritising essential elements like hardscaping first and adding planting, furniture, and finishing touches over time.

Final Thoughts

A house extension is a significant investment, and your garden should be treated as an extension of that investment. By carefully planning and designing your outdoor space, you can create a garden that enhances your home, maximizes the new views, and provides a functional, beautiful environment for years to come.

Whether you’re in the planning stages of your extension or dealing with a post-build garden dilemma, investing in your outdoor space will be one of the best decisions you make. Your future self—and your guests—will thank you for it!