When designing an outdoor kitchen, selecting the right worktop is crucial. It must withstand the UK weather, resist heat, and maintain an attractive appearance. Over the years, various materials have been used, leading to a ranking of the top four outdoor kitchen worktops, from best to budget-friendly. 1. Dekton – The Ultimate Outdoor Kitchen Worktop Dekton Worktop Dekton stands out as a top choice for outdoor kitchens. This ultra-compact surface is incredibly durable, heat-r

When I design outdoor living spaces, choosing the right materials is one of the most important decisions my clients make. Composite decking has become a popular alternative to traditional timber, offering a sleek, modern finish with minimal maintenance. However, like any material, it comes with both advantages and drawbacks. If you’re considering composite decking for your next garden project, this guide will help you decide whether it’s the right fit for your outdoor space.

When I design outdoor spaces, choosing the right surface is always one of the most important decisions. Resin bound gravel has become a popular option in modern landscaping because it combines durability with a sleek, decorative finish. Like any material, however, it has both strengths and weaknesses. In this blog, I’ll outline the pros and cons of resin bound gravel to help you decide whether it’s the right choice for your garden. What is Resin Bound Gravel? Resin bound grav

When it comes to finishing off garden borders, pathways, or play areas, many of my clients ask about the difference between bark mulch and decorative wood chippings. While they might look similar at first glance, they serve slightly different purposes and each has its own pros and cons. Here’s my breakdown as a garden designer to help you decide what’s best for your outdoor space. Bark Mulch What is Bark Mulch? Bark mulch is made from shredded or chipped bark, often from pine

When I design gardens across Yorkshire, I often get asked which paving material is the most durable and stylish for patios, paths, and outdoor kitchens. One of the most premium options available is granite paving. Known for its strength and modern look, granite is a natural stone that creates a sleek, long-lasting finish in any garden design. In this post, I’ll share the pros and cons of granite paving to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your outdoor space. 👉  Ex

As a garden designer working across Yorkshire, I often help clients choose the right paving for their patios, paths, and outdoor living areas. One of the options is limestone paving. It’s a natural stone that offers style and practicality, but like all materials, it has both advantages and disadvantages. In this guide, I’ll share the pros and cons of limestone paving so you can decide if it’s the right choice for your garden. What is Limestone Paving? Limestone is a natural s

When enhancing your outdoor space, choosing the right decking material can significantly influence both its look and functionality. Tanaised decking is a popular choice among homeowners for its mix of durability and style. However, it has its distinct advantages and drawbacks. In this blog post, we will examine both sides of tanaised decking to help you make an informed decision for your outdoor area. 👉 View my walkthrough animations What is Tanaised Decking? Tanaised deckin

When designing gardens across Yorkshire, I’m often asked about different surface finishes for paths, patios, and driveways. One option I recommend when it suits the property is self-bound gravel. It’s an attractive and durable material that gives a natural look, but like all surfaces, it comes with both advantages and drawbacks. In this post, I’ll share the pros and cons of self-bound gravel to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your garden. What is Self-Bound Grave

When it comes to landscaping options, homeowners often find themselves at a crossroads between choosing artificial grass and maintaining a natural lawn. Each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages that can make the decision complex. This blog aims to clarify the pros and cons of both options, helping you make a well-informed choice for your outdoor space. The Pros of Artificial Grass Low Maintenance One of the standout benefits of artificial grass is its minimal main

Creating a stunning and functional garden space often involves careful choices about materials and structures. One popular choice is tanalised sleepers, which are treated timber known for their resistance to rot and pests. These sleepers can be an excellent option for raised beds and retaining walls, but they come with their own set of upsides and downsides. In this post, we will examine the pros and cons of using tanalised sleepers to help you make the best choice for your g

Paving is one of the biggest decisions in any garden design. It forms the foundation of your outdoor living space and ties the whole design together. While natural stone like sandstone has been popular for many years, porcelain paving is now one of the most in-demand choices for patios, paths, and terraces across the UK. I often recommend porcelain, but only if it suits the style of the property and the way the garden will be used. In the right setting, it creates a sleek, mo

Choosing the right paving is one of the most important design decisions you’ll make for your garden. The paving doesn’t just form a patio or a path — it sets the tone for the whole space, tying together the house, planting, and outdoor features. Indian sandstone is one of the most popular paving options I’m asked about. It’s natural, beautiful, and versatile — but I only recommend it if it suits the style of the property and complements the overall design. In some settings it