Terrace Gardens in Shortlands transform sloping plots into elegant, usable outdoor rooms. We design and build retaining walls, steps, lighting and planting that suit BR2 homes. Expect crisp finishes, smart drainage and year-round structure.
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Many gardens around Shortlands station and Ravensbourne sit on gentle to steep gradients, where a flat lawn wastes space and can struggle after heavy rain. Our terrace garden builds create level platforms for dining, play, and planting without compromising the character of your home. We combine retaining walls, steps and access routes, and multi-level planting to make the garden easy to use every day. The result is a layout that feels calm, practical and beautifully proportioned.
Shortlands is known for large Edwardian houses, Victorian villas and well-kept 1930s properties, often with long rear gardens and mature boundaries. These plots suit layered planting, discreet seating areas, and lighting that extends evenings outdoors. We design terraces that respect period architecture while introducing modern performance—robust drainage solutions, neat edges and irrigation where needed. If you want a contemporary finish, we can balance clean paving lines with softer planting for a timeless look.
We start with a site visit to measure levels, check soil and drainage behaviour, and discuss how you want to use each terrace. You’ll receive a clear design, materials schedule and staged plan so you know what’s happening and when. Our builds prioritise structural integrity—proper footings, reinforcement where required, and controlled water management behind retaining walls. Homeowners choose us for reliable communication, tidy working practices and a finish backed by a written warranty.
Across BR2, we regularly see clay-heavy soils and run-off challenges on sloping plots, so drainage and wall backfill are designed from day one. Access can be tight on residential roads near Shortlands station, so we plan deliveries, parking and waste removal to minimise disruption. We also match materials to local property styles—brick tones for period homes, or crisp stone and porcelain for modern updates. If any works sit near boundaries or affect levels, we’ll advise on practical next steps before build.
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Costs vary with levels, wall height, access and finishes. As a guide, smaller terrace gardens in the Shortlands area can start from around £8,000–£15,000 for basic walling, steps and planting. Mid-size multi-level schemes with lighting and improved drainage often fall between £18,000–£35,000. Larger builds with premium stone, water features and irrigation can be £40,000+. We provide a detailed, itemised estimate after a site survey.
Most terrace garden projects take 2–6 weeks on site, depending on the number of levels and the amount of retaining wall construction. A compact scheme with one wall and a short set of steps may be completed in around 10–15 working days. More complex builds—multiple terraces, drainage runs, lighting and water features—take longer. Weather, ground conditions and access for materials can also affect the programme.
Many garden landscaping works are permitted development, but terracing can trigger extra considerations if you significantly alter ground levels, build higher retaining walls, or work close to boundaries. Listed buildings and conservation areas may have additional constraints. We’ll review your plans against typical London Borough of Bromley requirements and advise if a planning application or building control input is sensible. Where needed, we can supply drawings and specifications to support approvals.
We provide a 10-year warranty on our workmanship for structural landscaping elements such as retaining walls, steps, paving installation and associated groundworks, provided the garden is used and maintained normally. This covers defects arising from installation rather than accidental damage or third-party alterations. Manufacturer warranties apply separately to products like lighting, pumps and irrigation components. You’ll receive clear aftercare guidance to help planting and finishes settle in properly.
We tailor each scheme to your house style and how you use the space. Popular choices include brick or rendered retaining walls, natural stone or porcelain paving, timber or composite seating areas, and layered planting with evergreen structure. For features, we can add rills or bowl fountains, discreet LED step lights, and automated irrigation to support new planting. We’ll help you compare costs, maintenance and durability before you commit to a final palette.
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