Landscaping is all too often an afterthought when constructing an extension or a self-build house and so it isn’t always taken into consideration in the initial budgeting. As a quantity surveyor, I always build a landscaping cost into the overall budget, even if it’s a provisional sum at feasibility stage, to allow for a new lawn, decking or patio.
If you’re having a new extension, it’s almost inevitable that your existing garden or patio area will be left with skip damage, or become a dumping ground for old pallets and waste materials. And if you’re undertaking a self-build, it’s very likely that the surrounding land or garden will be barren during the works and once the build is completed, it will need to be turned into a garden from scratch using turf or seed or artificial turf, with flowers, trees, shrubs and some hard landscaping, too.
By treating the landscaping as part of the whole build instead of considering it as a separate project, the end result will work better with your home and, in some instances, be more cost-effective. Here, we answer some of the most common questions about the costs involved when landscaping and reveal how you might make significant savings.
WILL LANDSCAPING INCREASE THE VALUE OF MY PROPERTY?
This story is from the July 2023 edition of Homebuilding & Renovating.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the July 2023 edition of Homebuilding & Renovating.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
WHY I CHOSE...TO HIRE AN INTERIOR DESIGNER
Hiring a professional to help in an area you're not confident with can be invaluable. Ben Adam-Smith did just that by employing an interior designer to inject character into his and his wife Kay's self-build
HOW TO PREVENT YOUR HOME OVERHEATING
With UK summers getting hotter, what steps can be taken to prevent overheating in homes? We outline what you can do to have a comfortable property all year round
Multifunctional home office
How to create a hybrid space that's suitable for both work and home life
Build a new garage for less
Taking on a self-build or renovation project? Then factor in a garage from the beginning you can benefit from economies of scale and efficiency tactics, says Tim Phillips
The golden rules of house design
Designing a house is hugely exciting, but knowing where to start can also feel daunting. With the help of some top architectural experts, we bring you the golden rules that will ensure you create the home of your dreams
THE HEALTHY HOME
PART THREE: BOOSTING BIODIVERSITY IN OUR HOMES
Victorian overhauls
A carefully conceived extension could be the key to unlocking the potential of your period property without compromising its character. Let our selection of innovative schemes be your inspiration...
Bird's eve view
Peter and Romney Lelliott opted for an upside-down new build, enabling them to enjoy far-reaching country views from the elevated living space of their contemporary new home
A collage to treasure
Kirstin Eriksson has transformed her Cotswold property by taking it from a neglected cottage to a perfect family home packed full of clever design ideas
Hidden, paradise
With hard work and a lot of initiative, Minnie and James Vosper lovingly brought their run-down home into the 21st century