Multi-Level Garden Transformation in Hamilton Heights

The brief

The owners of this sloped garden in Hamilton Heights, Hamilton, wanted to completely transform their outdoor space into a modern, practical garden that made much better use of the challenging change in levels.

Our brief was to redesign the garden around two distinct levels, creating usable spaces while introducing a contemporary combination of porcelain paving, artificial grass, bespoke planters and decorative finishes.

With significant excavation and structural landscaping required before the finishing materials could even be installed, this was a substantial transformation from the ground up.

Extensive Groundworks & Two-Level Design

Creating the new layout required major groundwork, including the removal of approximately 90 tonnes of muck from the site. We then brought in around 50 tonnes of Type 1 hardcore to create the strong, stable foundations needed for the redesigned garden.

Working with the natural slope rather than against it, we formed two defined levels to maximise the usable space and give the finished garden a much more considered layout.

Valar Grey porcelain patio

We installed a striking Valar Grey porcelain patio, creating a sophisticated seating area for relaxing and entertaining. We laid matching Valar Grey porcelain stepping stones to connect the different areas of the garden. This creates a seamless flow throughout the space.

Porcelain-Clad Retaining Wall

To separate the two levels, we constructed a concrete block retaining wall before cladding it in striking Chicago Black porcelain.

The wall was finished with double bullnose charcoal copes, creating a crisp, contemporary feature that provides a strong contrast against the lighter paving while giving the change in levels a premium finish.

Amalfi Gris Porcelain Paving

We installed Amalfi Gris porcelain tiles across both levels of the garden, creating generous areas for outdoor seating, dining and entertaining.

The subtle grey tones provide a clean, contemporary appearance while helping visually connect the different areas of the garden.

Bespoke Sleeper Planters

Sleeper planters were incorporated into the design to introduce raised planting areas and add another dimension to the landscaping.

These were dressed with Venetian slats, turning a practical garden feature into an attractive part of the overall design and complementing the modern materials used throughout the project.

Artificial Grass & Decorative Borders

A 35mm artificial lawn provides a softer contrast against the porcelain paving while creating an attractive, low-maintenance green space at the heart of the garden.

We completed the landscaping with Black Ice decorative chipped borders, helping define the different areas and tying in beautifully with the darker detailing used elsewhere in the garden.

Tobermore Kerbstone Side Path

Finally, Tobermore Kerbstones were installed along the side pathway, providing a smart and durable route through the garden while maintaining the high-quality finish of the main landscaped areas.

The Finished Garden

The completed transformation has turned a challenging sloped garden into a contemporary, multi-level outdoor space where every part of the garden has a purpose.

The combination of Amalfi Gris porcelain, Chicago Black detailing, artificial grass, bespoke planters and decorative stone creates a cohesive modern finish, while the extensive groundwork beneath it provides the foundations for a garden designed to be enjoyed for years to come.