Terrace Gardens in Kensington transform sloping or compact plots into elegant, practical outdoor rooms. From retaining walls and multi-level planting to lighting and water features, we build spaces that suit Kensington living.
Response within 24 hours
Kensington gardens often need clever level changes to make them comfortable and usable year-round. We create structured terrace layouts with retaining walls, steps and seating that feel at home near Kensington Palace and along Kensington High Street. Multi-level planting adds privacy and softness without sacrificing space. Thoughtful lighting and water features bring the garden to life after dark.
Across W8 and W14 we regularly work with stucco townhouses, mansion blocks and period conversions, where outdoor space can be narrow, shaded or overlooked. In Holland Park and South Kensington, we design terraces that respect classic architecture while improving access and drainage. Where gardens sit below street level, we introduce robust retaining systems and discreet irrigation. Planting plans are tailored to sun patterns, wind exposure and maintenance preferences.
Our process starts with a site survey, levels assessment and a clear design proposal with materials specified upfront. We handle groundworks, drainage solutions, electrics for lighting, and irrigation as one coordinated build. Homeowners choose us for tidy working practices, reliable scheduling and workmanship that lasts. Every terrace build is backed by a written 10-year warranty for structural elements.
In the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, access can be tight and parking restrictions are common, so we plan deliveries and waste removal carefully. Many properties have basement levels and lightwells, making drainage design and waterproof detailing especially important. We also factor in party walls, shared boundaries and neighbour considerations typical of mansion blocks and period terraces. Materials and finishes are selected to complement the area’s elegant façades and garden squares.
Rated 4.9/5 from over 280 verified reviews
Costs vary with levels, access and the amount of structural work required. As a guide, a small terrace rework with steps and planting might start around £8,000–£15,000. More complex multi-level builds with retaining walls, drainage, lighting and irrigation commonly fall between £20,000–£60,000+. Premium stone, bespoke seating and water features can increase budgets further, especially where access is restricted in W8/W14.
Most terrace garden projects take 2–6 weeks on site, depending on excavation, retaining wall construction and the number of levels. A straightforward set of steps, small walling and planting may be completed in 10–15 working days. Larger gardens with drainage upgrades, lighting, irrigation and bespoke seating can take 6–10 weeks. Timescales are affected by access, spoil removal, curing times and weather.
Many garden improvements are permitted development, but terrace works can trigger extra checks where there are significant level changes, raised platforms, boundary walls, or if the property is listed or in a conservation area. In Kensington, these situations are common, so we review constraints early and advise what’s likely to need consent. If approvals are required, we can provide drawings and specifications to support applications.
We provide a 10-year warranty on structural elements such as retaining walls, steps, and installed hard landscaping, provided they are used and maintained as advised. This covers workmanship and construction-related defects, not accidental damage or third-party alterations. Manufacturer warranties also apply to specified products like lighting, pumps and irrigation components. We document materials and build details so you have clear records for future reference.
Clients often choose natural stone paving, porcelain for a crisp contemporary look, and brick or stone-faced retaining walls to suit period façades. Seating can be built-in with timber or stone caps, sometimes with integrated storage. Water features range from rills to compact fountains, paired with subtle lighting. Planting is typically layered for privacy—evergreen structure with seasonal colour. We guide choices based on style, shade, maintenance and budget.
Get your free, no-obligation quote today.