BERKSHIRE
BESPOKE PATIOS BUILT TO LAST
Patio Design Ideas
A well-designed patio changes the way you use your garden. Practical, hard-wearing outdoor spaces tailored to the way you live — across London, Berkshire, Essex, Kent, Surrey and Hertfordshire.
25+
YEARS EXPERIENCE
£50+
PER SQ METRE FROM
<100%
PROPER DRAINAGE
FREE
QUOTES & SURVEYS
GUARANTEE
ON ALL INSTALLATIONS
WHY DESIGN MATTERS
Why Your Patio Design Matters
It is easy to think of a patio as simply a paved area outside the back door, but the reality is more involved than that. The position of the sun throughout the day, the natural fall of the ground, how the garden connects to the house, the soil type beneath the surface — all of these factors shape whether a patio works well or falls short. A poorly planned layout can mean a space that is too exposed, too shaded, or awkwardly disconnected from the rooms you use most.
We see it regularly: patios that were laid without much thought, where furniture sits unevenly because the falls are wrong, or where water pools after even moderate rainfall. These are not problems you should have to live with. Getting the design right from the outset saves time, saves money, and gives you an outdoor space that genuinely adds value to your home.
Our approach starts with a proper site visit. We look at aspect, access, existing features, and how you intend to use the space before recommending anything. That groundwork is what separates a patio that impresses visitors from one that quietly disappoints.
PATIO MATERIALS
Choosing the Right Surface
The materials you choose will define the character and longevity of your patio more than almost any other decision. Each option brings its own qualities.
Natural Stone
Limestone, sandstone, slate and granite — each bringing distinct colour variations and textures that manufactured products struggle to replicate. Sourced from Marshalls, Bradstone and Stonemarket.
Porcelain Paving
Virtually non-porous, resists staining and moss. Available in large-format tiles with convincing stone and wood effects. A clean, contemporary look with excellent slip resistance.
Indian Sandstone
Warm, earthy tones from buff and golden hues through to deep grey and plum. A comfortable middle ground between premium natural stone and budget alternatives. Decades of reliable service.
Block Paving
Individual blocks in herringbone, stretcher bond or basket weave patterns. Modular format means easy repairs. Strong option for patios connecting to driveways or pathways.
DESIGN IDEAS
Patio Design Ideas for Every Garden
Small Garden Patios
A combination of paving and planting — using lighter-coloured slabs to reflect light, incorporating raised beds or planters to introduce greenery without eating into floor space. A well-proportioned patio in a compact garden can feel surprisingly spacious if the layout is right.
Large Patio Layouts & Zoning
Separate areas for dining, lounging and cooking create a sense of purpose. Transitions between zones defined through changes in material, level or planting. A dining area close to the kitchen, a seating space further into the garden for evening sun, a fire pit area for cooler months.
Contemporary & Traditional
Period homes suit natural stone in warmer tones, laid in multi-size patterns with softer planting. Modern properties look best with large-format porcelain tiles in grey or anthracite, clean edges and minimal borders. We work across both ends of the spectrum.
FEATURES
Features That Make a Patio Work Harder
A good patio goes beyond the surface itself. The features you build into the design determine how much use you get out of the space and how comfortably you can use it throughout the year.
Integrated Lighting
Recessed ground lights along steps and borders for subtle definition
Retaining Walls & Beds
Add structure on sloping sites and double as informal seating
Outdoor Kitchens & BBQ
Proper countertops, storage and utility connections
Fire Pits & Pergolas
Extend the months you spend outside with warmth and shelter
Proper Drainage Solutions
Appropriate falls and drainage to prevent water pooling. Permeable paving or land drains where required.
OUR PROCESS
Our Patio Design and Installation Process
Every project follows the same structured approach, refined over more than fifteen years.
01
Free Site Visit
We assess your garden, discuss your ideas, look at aspect, access and existing features, and take measurements.
02
Design Proposal
A detailed proposal covering layout, materials, features and costs. Transparent, itemised quotation with no hidden charges.
03
Preparation & Build
We coordinate everything — materials, access, skip hire. Excavation, sub-base construction and drainage before laying your chosen surface.
04
Surface Installation
Your chosen patio material expertly laid with proper falls and drainage to ensure a lasting, level finish.
05
Features & Finishing
Installation of lighting, raised beds, steps, pergolas or any additional features specified in your design.
06
Final Walkthrough
Thorough clean-up and walkthrough to make sure you are completely satisfied. All installations come with a guarantee.
MEET THE TEAM
Family-Run Excellence Since 2008
We have spent over fifteen years refining what works. The right materials for the right setting. Layouts that suit the proportions of the garden rather than fighting against them. Proper drainage, solid sub-bases, and finishes that still look sharp years down the line.
Every patio we install is built around your property, your preferences, and your budget — not pulled from a template. Our family-run team brings honesty, care and personalised service to every patio project. We treat your home as we would our own and back our work with clear guarantees and a commitment to quality.
Family-Run Business
Experienced Team
Premium Materials
Clear Guarantees
PRICING
How Much Does a New Patio Cost?
Patio costs vary depending on the size of the area, the materials selected, the complexity of the design and the existing ground conditions. As a general guide, a straightforward patio using quality Indian sandstone or porcelain tiles typically starts from around £50–£80 per square metre. Projects involving premium natural stone, multiple levels, integrated features or significant groundwork will sit higher, often in the region of £100–£150 per square metre or above.
We provide detailed, written quotations following every site visit, and we are always upfront about what is included. There are no surprise charges midway through a project. If you would like a rough indication of cost before booking a consultation, you are welcome to call us or send across some photographs and measurements — we are happy to give you a ballpark figure.
Indian Sandstone: from £50/m²
Porcelain Paving: from £60/m²
Natural Stone: from £80/m²
Premium Multi-Level: from £100/m²
Block Paving: from £55/m²
SERVICE AREAS
Patio Design Services Across London & the South East
We carry out patio design and installation projects across a broad service area covering London, Berkshire, Essex, Kent, Surrey and Hertfordshire. Whether you are in central London or a village in the Kent countryside, our team is experienced in working with the full range of property types and garden sizes found across the South East.
Our familiarity with the region also means we understand the local planning considerations, soil conditions and drainage requirements that can affect outdoor projects in different areas.
London
Berkshire
Essex
Kent
Surrey
Hertfordshire
Sussex
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a new patio cost?
Patio costs vary depending on the size of the area, the materials selected, the complexity of the design and the existing ground conditions. A straightforward patio using quality Indian sandstone or porcelain tiles typically starts from around £50–£80 per square metre. Projects involving premium natural stone, multiple levels, integrated features or significant groundwork will sit higher, often in the region of £100–£150 per square metre or above. We provide detailed, written quotations following every site visit.
What patio materials do you recommend?
The best choice depends on the style of your property, your maintenance expectations, and how heavily the space will be used. We work with natural stone (limestone, sandstone, slate, granite), porcelain paving, Indian sandstone, and block paving. Our team will recommend the most suitable option during your free site visit.
How long does a patio installation take?
Timescales depend on the size and complexity of the project. A straightforward patio can typically be completed within a week, while larger projects with multiple levels, integrated features, or significant groundwork may take two to three weeks. We will confirm timings in your detailed quotation.
Do you offer a guarantee on patio installations?
Yes. All of our patio installations come with a guarantee, so you have long-term peace of mind. We are always upfront about what is included and there are no surprise charges midway through a project.
Do you design patios for small gardens?
Absolutely. Smaller gardens demand careful planning, and we specialise in creating well-proportioned patios that feel spacious even in compact spaces. We use lighter-coloured slabs to reflect light, incorporate raised beds or planters, and choose furniture-friendly layouts.
Which areas do you cover?
We carry out patio design and installation projects across London, Berkshire, Essex, Kent, Surrey, Sussex and Hertfordshire. If you are unsure whether we cover your location, get in touch — we are often flexible for the right project.
Request A Free Quote
“The patio has completely transformed our garden. From the first site visit through to the final walkthrough, the team were professional, tidy and genuinely cared about getting it right. We use the space every weekend now — it’s like having an extra room.”
The Henderson Family
Surrey
Beautiful, Bespoke Patios Built to Last
To discuss your patio design ideas or to book a free consultation, contact Urban Stone Developments and Home Improvements today. Call us on 01753 258197, email info@urbanstonedevelopments.co.uk, or use the enquiry form on this page.