A recent survey has shown that young couples are prioritising getting a mortgage over tying the knot, with 3 out of 5 reallocating wedding budgets for a house deposit instead. And with outdoor space shooting up the priority list for home buyers, a lot of young people are looking to tackle garden projects as well as DIY inside the home. In this article, we share advice for first time buyers looking to update or create an attractive outside space. From DIY garden projects to patio ideas on a budget, scroll down for our advice to set you on the right (garden) path.
Garden DIY projects for first time buyers
Drivesett Argent Edging in Dark
When it comes to improving your outdoor space, there are plenty of easy garden changes you can make yourself that can have a big impact. If you’re looking to make big changes to your garden, we would always recommend a professional installer. However, there are a number of DIY jobs you can tackle yourself.
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Repointing a patio – If the patio is looking a little tired but you’re not ready to replace it just yet, a DIY patio jointing project could solve your problems. Repointing your patio means simply filling in the cracked grouting and it can make a huge difference to your outdoor space. Products such as Marshalls Weatherpoint 365, allow you to repoint your patio yourself and is quick and easy to do, which is the budget-friendly option if you’re looking to make changes.
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Creating a new garden path – Laying a garden path is a smart choice for any outdoor space. A path connects a garden to the home it belongs to, provides a practical way to navigate the space and adds an attractive and stylish design feature. This is a cost-effective way of changing areas of your garden and doesn’t take too much time. You can read our article on a more in-depth at look at how to lay a garden path.
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Make your garden wildlife friendly – Creating a biodiverse garden has great environmental benefits and it’s satisfying to watch and see who comes to enjoy the space you’ve created. If getting crafty if your kind of style, then why not create nest boxes and recycled bird feeders and if you’re looking for plants to attract insects go for ‘simple’ flowers, such as coneflower and Asters, which allow pollinators easy access to the nectar. Watch the video below for more ideas for creating a wildlife-friendly garden.
Is a new garden patio expensive?
Symphony Porcelain Plank Paving in Birch
Unless you’re moving into a new build, you might find that the patio in your new home needs replacing or there isn’t one already there. A new patio is an investment in your home, and a great way to create a more attractive and useable outdoor space – it’s also the best surface for garden furniture and a BBQ. Like many home improvements, you can spend as much or as little as you like but do bear in mind that you often get what you pay for. One of the biggest misconceptions when it comes to laying a new patio or driveway, is that the paving and other materials are the most expensive part, when in fact 80% of the cost is made up of the sub-base ground preparation. Adding a small patio to a garden can be done as a DIY job, but make sure you have the time and skills to devote to it. Read our article on how much does a patio cost, which includes three different type of paving examples and tips from the UK’s best installers.
Budget garden patio ideas for first time buyers
Organa Paving in Cotton
Cost-effective paving options are available for almost any budget – and they look great too. When you’re transforming your garden, it’s worth taking a look at any areas that could potentially be turned into seating or living areas. Introducing a paved section can be an easy way of creating a liveable space in your garden. It’s great for summer BBQs or just extra space for potted plants and other greenery without needing to spend time and money on the long-term upkeep of a lawn.
Planting at different levels and using a mix of paving sizes and colours in a clever composition with a bit of creative flair provides an impressive and affordable outdoor space. Choose a paving that’s available in a variety of sizes and/or colours to create extra interest and contrast. Richmond Utility paving is one affordable option that can be used to great effect in a mixed patio, or Organa paving which is shown above.
If you’re looking for a low maintenance and easy to clean paving option, then look no further than porcelain. This great option suits both contemporary and traditional homes, and absorbs as little moisture as possible, that’s ideal for busy patios. Symphony Plank paving perfectly resembles wooden planks, providing the homely appearance of wood without the maintenance requirements.
Making the most out of your garden paving or patio
A seating area is the perfect way to get the most out of your garden. Invite friends and family over and bring variety to your day by eating outdoors. The key is not to wait for a hot day, grab blankets and outdoor candles to make it cosy and make quick updates to patio furniture with outdoor cushions or a new parasol.
Another important aspect of garden design is to consider the location of the sun when you want to spend the most time in your garden. If you’re a keen gardener, this will dictate what will grow where in your space, and could change the layout of your garden.
Small garden transformations
We understand that a new garden is an investment, so to help you visualise what can be achieved, here are a selection of garden transformations. All of these gardens were installed by a Marshalls Register member.
Garden transformation by 3D Garden Design using our Symphony Classic paving in Barley and Drivesett Tegula in Pennant Grey
Garden transformation by Garden TLC using our Capleton Grange paving and, bullnose steps and Granite Eclipse paving in Dark
Garden transformation by CJ Paving using our Towngate paving in Brown Multi
