Terrace Gardens in Forest Hill that turn awkward slopes into usable outdoor rooms. From retaining walls and steps to lighting, water features and planting, we build spaces that feel effortless to live in.
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Forest Hill’s hillsides and long rear plots can make outdoor space feel fragmented, especially where levels drop away from the house. We design terrace gardens that create clear zones for dining, relaxing and planting, with safe access between levels. Whether you’re near Forest Hill station or walking distance to the Horniman Museum, we tailor layouts to your plot and lifestyle. Expect considered planting, crisp detailing and practical drainage from day one.
Many homes across SE23 are Victorian and Edwardian houses, plus period conversions with compact side returns and stepped gardens. These properties often benefit from multi-level planting beds, discreet storage, and seating areas that maximise usable square metres. In the terrace gardens Forest Hill area, we regularly work with narrow access routes, shared boundaries and mature trees. Our designs respect period character while introducing modern comfort such as low-glare lighting and efficient irrigation.
We start with a site survey to map levels, sun, soil and existing drainage, then produce a clear concept and materials schedule. Construction is managed end-to-end: retaining walls, steps & access, irrigation, lighting and finishing details are coordinated to avoid delays. You’ll get transparent staging, tidy working practices and a handover pack for care and maintenance. Local homeowners choose us for build quality, clear communication and results that last through every season.
Across the London Borough of Lewisham, sloping sites and heavy rainfall mean drainage design matters as much as aesthetics. We plan falls, channels and soakaway options to suit your plot and protect neighbouring boundaries. Access can be tight on residential streets, so we schedule deliveries carefully and keep disruption controlled. Materials and planting are chosen to complement period brickwork and the established garden character around Forest Hill and nearby Dulwich and Brockley.
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Costs vary with levels, access and the amount of structure required. As a guide, a simple two-level scheme with steps and planting can start from around £12,000–£20,000. More complex builds with engineered retaining walls, lighting, irrigation and a water feature often fall in the £25,000–£60,000+ range. We’ll survey your site in SE23 and provide an itemised estimate based on materials and ground conditions.
Most terrace garden projects take 2–6 weeks on site, depending on the number of levels and how much excavation is needed. Retaining walls, drainage and foundations are the time-critical stages, followed by steps, paving, planting and finishes. Tight access, wet weather and specialist elements such as water features or complex lighting can extend the programme. We provide a realistic schedule before work begins and keep you updated throughout.
Many garden improvements are permitted development, but terracing can trigger rules if you significantly alter ground levels, add tall retaining walls near boundaries, or your home is listed. Some properties in Forest Hill also sit close to conservation areas where extra checks may apply. We review the proposal against Lewisham guidance and advise if you need planning consent, building control input, or party wall notices. Where required, we can support drawings and documentation.
We provide a 10-year warranty on our workmanship for structural landscaping elements such as retaining walls, steps, paving installation and built seating, subject to normal use and maintenance. Products like lighting, pumps and irrigation components are covered by their manufacturer warranties, which we register and pass on to you. If an issue arises, we assess it promptly and put it right in line with the warranty terms. Clear aftercare guidance is included at handover.
We can build terraces using brick to match period homes, natural stone, porcelain paving, or timber and composite decking, depending on style and budget. Retaining walls may be engineered blockwork with a brick or stone face, or bespoke hardwood sleepers where appropriate. Popular upgrades include integrated bench seating, low-glare step lights, rills or bowl water features, and automated drip irrigation. We help you choose options that suit your house, maintenance preferences and the way you use the garden.
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