Creating a beautiful and functional outdoor space is an exciting project many homeowners look forward to and can add value and appeal to a property. Adding an outdoor dining space can give you an additional room in summer and allow you to get months of extra, practical enjoyment from your garden. Choosing the right paving makes a huge impact on the overall feel of your space.

The Impact of the Right Paving for Your Garden

Selecting the right paving can significantly enhance your garden’s functionality and aesthetic appeal. Whether you’re looking to create a modern patio with porcelain paving or a rustic pathway with natural stone, the right choice will add character and function to your outdoor space.

Benefits of Professional Paving

• Durability and Quality: At J Drewe Landscaping, we use high-quality materials from trusted UK suppliers, ensuring your paving stands the test of time.

• Expert Craftsmanship: Our skilled team handles projects of all sizes, from small garden patios to expansive commercial spaces, with meticulous attention to detail.

• Customisation: During the consultation and design stages, clients can view samples and choose the perfect materials that align with their vision and garden style.

Paving Options

In summary, the right paving choice can set the tone for your space. When selecting the right paving, consider the durability, look and hardiness of the product alongside the look and feel you want to add into your space. At J Drewe Landscaping, we have years of experience and are extremely knowledgeable in the options available. We work with trusted national and local suppliers and can help you select and install the perfect option for your project.

For more information on garden paving and to start your garden transformation, visit our website or call us today on 07900 987407.

In recent years, it has become more apparent than ever that the British weather can and will be entirely different from one day to the next. With this climate change in mind, it’s important to create a garden that can withstand the extreme heat and extreme wet weather that we Brits see year on year. 

In this blog, we will look at climate change and gardening. We’ll give our insight on how we can adapt and enhance our spaces to take on the great British weather. 

Climate Change and Gardening: New Build Gardens

Commonly, with new-build homes and gardens, drainage is overlooked, which can be a problem when it comes to climate change and gardening – especially in very wet periods. Most modern gardens tend to feature a lot of hard landscaping, as entertaining and relaxing has taken priority over more traditional garden uses. This can create problems as it minimises the space available for surface rainwater to drain or run off to. 

If you’re investing in a new build and want to get the most out of your garden in all weathers, make sure you check the soil conditions from the offset. How well it drains can be vital if you plan on having a lot of hard standing. Check where current water systems such as downpipes are running to, this may be your best drainage solution. Working with a professional landscaper like J.Drewe can give you a good insight into whether your garden will drain successfully and how we can adapt this if need be. 

Alongside handling our long, wet Winters, we’re seeing rising temperatures in Summer, and this is also something to consider when it comes to climate change and gardening. To create a space that you can enjoy all year round, you need to consider elements of your garden such as planting, paving, and shady areas to relax and escape the heat in summer.

For example, if your paving will be exposed to direct sunlight during the day, try to avoid choosing dark-coloured paving, as this will retain heat far more than lighter slabs. Working with a landscaper can enhance your ability to create the perfect garden for all weathers.

Climate Change and Gardening: Older established gardens

Just because a garden has been there for a long time or is slightly larger than your typical new build, it doesn’t mean that it is immune from issues in climate change and gardening. It’s always important to think about how the garden will stand up to months of rain or a long summer drought. 

One thing to consider when re-designing an older garden is drainage. If we were to get a large downpour, where is that rainwater coming from and where can it drain to? Installing and managing appropriate water systems is vital. We’ve been called out to multiple homes this year that have seen flooding due to poorly thought-out drainage and gardens not being able to cope with a sudden hit of extremely wet conditions. 

How J.Drewe Can Help With Climate Change and Gardening 

Although these extreme conditions create these problems, our designs allow for these potential issues and will create a garden that can be enjoyed all year round despite the unpredictable British weather!  

If you have any questions or you’d like us to take a look at your garden, please get in touch with our team either through our website or call on 01235 412567.

Location – Thatcham, Berkshire

Timescale – Twelve weeks

In 2022, we worked alongside designer Andrea Newill to create a contemporary space for her clients in Thatcham, Berkshire.

This Spa Meadow garden presented a unique set of challenges; the clients were looking to incorporate numerous features into a relatively small space so planning and execution were vital. We were also working to a tight timeframe as a result of supply chain and key material delays.

Despite these hurdles, we were able to work to Andrea’s plan, incorporating each desired feature with quality workmanship, while maintaining a harmonious balance between functionality and aesthetics.

Spa Meadow stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of designers and landscapers, offering the client a sanctuary where they can unwind, entertain, and reconnect with nature. The integration of high-quality materials and thoughtful design elements has transformed this outdoor space.

Materials featured:

Paving: London Stone

Water Features, Walling, and Planters: Adezz

Pergolas: Harrod Horticulture

Garden Office: Green Retreats

Fire Pit: Solus

From inviting dining spaces to seasonal planting, join us as we discuss various garden design elements to transform your outdoor space into a harmonious blend of aesthetics and functionality.

At J Drewe Landscaping, we work with clients in Oxfordshire and the surrounding area to ensure they are getting the most out of their outdoor space. When it comes to outdoor living, there are so many design elements you may want to consider. If you have any questions or wish to discuss your project, give us a call.

Garden Design Elements 

These are our most popular garden design elements here at J Drewe.

Innovative Paving Designs:

Paving is a garden design element that can form the foundation of your outdoor space. It provides structure and definition for the different areas within your garden. Choosing the right material and colour for your paving can help set a tone for your space, and with a wide selection such as block paving, porcelain and stone, your options are vast. Considering paving when designing your garden is key to creating a functional space you can enjoy throughout the seasons.

Dining Spaces:

Take your garden beyond just a visual spectacle by creating inviting dining spaces for those warm summer evenings. With outdoor living being a consistently growing priority for many, curating the perfect outdoor dining space can really enhance your lifestyle. Define the space with a fixed pergola, incorporate climbing planting and include soft lighting to extend your celebrations into the night. With a final flourish of stylish outdoor furniture and mindful planting, you can create the perfect spot for al fresco dining.

Seasonal Planting:

Enjoy your garden all year round by embracing the ebb and flow of the seasons within your garden design elements. Incorporate a variety of plants that bloom and thrive at different times, ensuring year-round visual interest. Work with a landscaper to choose a mix of evergreen shrubs, colourful perennials, and seasonal annuals, creating a vibrant and ever-changing landscape.

Water Features and Sustainable Landscaping:

Integrate water features into your garden design for a serene atmosphere. Consider features like fountains, ponds, or water walls to add a soothing element and movement to your space. Sustainable landscaping practices, such as planting drought-tolerant plants, are not just environmentally friendly but also align with modern landscaping trends. By incorporating native plants that require less water and maintenance, you can create beauty with little to no upkeep.

Vertical Gardening and Green Walls:

Vertical gardening is a great garden design element to maximise your growing space. Vertical gardening and green walls are not only space-saving but also add a contemporary touch to your landscape. Consider using trellises, planters, or modular systems to create vertical gardens with cascading vines, colourful flowers, or even herbs and vegetables. This not only diversifies your garden but also provides an excellent solution for smaller spaces.

Garden Designs from J Drewe Landscaping 

As you work to diversify your garden, remember that the key is to blend aesthetics with functionality. If you are looking to work with a landscaper like J Drewe, we can help to enhance your use of space and creativity within your garden.

Contact us today to discuss your project.

Project name: Millboard Decking Installation – Oxford

Location: Summertown, Oxford

Value: £35k

In Summer 2022, we were approached by a client in central Oxford who wanted to replace and upgrade their old deck with Millboard Enhanced Grain Coppered Oak Decking.

Why Choose Millboard Decking?

The client agreed that Millboard Decking was their best option due to its long-life product guarantee. They opted for the Plas-pro composite subframe to ensure their deck would last as long as possible.

The Project

The client requested that their garden be designed with entertainment in mind, making quality decking a crucial element. To guarantee year-round usability, the decision was made to integrate a garden lighting scheme. The J Drewe Landscaping team arranged for our qualified electrician to visit the site and design a lighting scheme that was both practical and fitted the client’s brief and budget.

The Result

The result proved to be the ideal solution for this central Oxford garden. The property had challenging levels to negotiate, starting from the house down to the canal. The versatility of the Millboard Decking gave us scope to navigate these levels and create a practical and visual space.

Millboard offers a complete system that includes boards, bullnose boards, fascias, and subframes. And with J Drewe Landscaping, a certified Millboard installer, the clients not only have a visually stunning deck but one that is also built to last.

If you’re thinking about adding a new decking area to your garden, or want to discuss a project,  contact the J Drewe Landscaping team today.

Garden Lighting: Tips for Illuminating your Outdoor Space  

Garden lighting is more popular than it has ever been. During lockdown, after spending more hours than ever in their gardens. It seems that having a cosy outdoor space which remains function into the night is higher on the list of priorities.

It is a great addition to an outdoor space, however our clients usually require some guidance on where to position lights and what ones to choose, luckily we offer a service where we can plan your lighting scheme for you. We often give advice on;

• How many lights required for the size of the garden
• What colour lights to use
• What to do with cables
• Where to put the light to create the desired atmosphere

Garden Lighting Tips

Here are our top tips;

Less is more – it can be easy to think that you’re going to need lots of lighting in an outdoor space. However, with the efficiency and brightness of LED lights you may be surprised at how few you need to make a big difference.

It’s all about location – think about what you want to see when it’s dark outside. For safety reasons, steps are a must when it comes to lights. However, this can still be done stylishly to create a better ambiance.

You’ll find that less is more, with lights positioned correctly around an outdoor space, making the most of features like trees, steps and sculptures, minimal lighting is enough to completely transform the garden after dark.

Colour match – for a professional looking garden with a warm and cosy feel it’s best to choose a lighting colour and stick with it for the whole garden. Using a combination of yellow and white lights can often feel disjointed and unfinished. Keeping the consistency can make a big difference.

Cables and connections – this is another area where hiring a professional is really worthwhile. When you choose to work with J Drewe we can sort all cables and connections so that they are not only neat and tidy, they are also water proof and weather proof so they work all year round with no problems.

Common Pitfalls when it comes to Garden Lighting  

Getting the balance right when it comes to garden lighting can make or break your perfect outdoor space. Some of the more common pitfalls when it comes to garden lighting are;

• Glare is overbearing due to lighting angle
• No consideration being given to what has been illuminated and what to keep in the dark
• Visible cables, these always catching people’s eye making them more of a focal point if they are not properly secured.
• No consideration of brightness level when purchasing the lights.
• Not prioritising garden lighting. For functional and aesthetically pleasing garden lighting, it should be considered from the design stage and not be an afterthought.

J Drewe Garden Services

At J Drewe, we can help incorporate garden lighting from the design stage of your makeover. We have a wealth of experience in fitting all elements when it comes to landscaping, and we know the difference it can make to an outdoor space.

For more information on garden lighting or to discuss your project, please contact us today.

Modern Driveway Ideas

A driveway is not only an essential element of a properties entrance but also a visual aspect of the property. A modern driveway can help with making the property more inviting and increase the value of the home.

A beautiful well-maintained driveway can make a significant difference to the overall look and feel of the property. There are different options when it comes to driveway materials and designs.

At J.Drewe, driveway installation is one of the services we offer. We are often approached for modern driveway ideas.

Modern Driveway Ideas

Block paving driveways – block driveways are one of our most popular choices when it comes to driveways. Block paving comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colours, allowing for endless design possibilities. It’s a durable solution and can withstand heavy loads, making it ideal for driveways.

Gravel driveways – Gravel driveways provide a rustic and natural look that can complement any home’s exterior. Gravel driveways can also be combined with other materials such as pavers or concrete to create a unique look. Gravel comes in many shapes and sizes and can create a traditional look on an older property or be paired with a new home to give an ultra-modern look.

Resin driveways – Resin driveways have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their low maintenance, high durability, and aesthetic appeal. Resin bonded driveways are when resin is poured on a surface and gravel is scattered on top. Resin bound surfaces are where resin is mixed with loose gravel, then trowelled to a smooth finish, this is stable and smoother than the bonded option. Resin driveways can also be permeable, meaning they can be an ideal solution for sites with drainage issues.  

Modern Driveways from J.Drewe

When it comes to modern driveways there are various options we can offer here at J.Drewe.

When selecting the type of driveway you would like for your property it is important to consider your home’s architecture and surroundings. With a little creativity, your driveway can become a standout feature of your home’s exterior.

Contact us for more information – we would be happy to talk you through the various options and make suggestions based on the size, shape and location of your driveway.

 Fencing Types for your Garden

There are many different types of fencing available for your garden, each one can be used to create a different look depending on your requirements.

At J Drewe, we can offer a range of different fencing types for your garden. Whether your project is commercial, domestic or residential, we have a fencing type to suit your needs.

Our skilled team are able to install a wide range of fencing types including;

• Closeboard fencing
• Durapost
• Panel Fencing
• Metal Railings
• Picket Fencing
• Post and Rail Fencing
• Trellis
• Timber Fencing
• Concrete Fencing
• Wooden Fencing
• Composite Fencing

Fencing Types

Panel Fencing – panel fencing is a very common fencing option for domestic gardens, panels range from a standard larchlap panel to a more robust long-lasting closeboard panel. Fence panels can be installed to range of post types, from timber, to concrete, metal and composite.

Metal Railings – metal railings are used less often in gardens and more in commercial areas such as parks or residential areas. They are strong and hardwearing as well as low maintenance but can provide perimeter security whilst looking elegant.

Picket Fencing – picket fencing is selected for domestic use to form a decorative boundary for gardens. It consists of wooden picket pales which are attached to a rail with gaps in between. Being made of wood means this style of fencing responds well to paint and staining.

Post and Rail Fencing  – post and rail fencing uses vertical solid timber posts with horizontal timber rails. This type of fencing is an ideal solution to fencing large areas for agricultural or equestrian use, also defining a boundary on a large scale. Post and rail fencing is sturdy and can be used as a simple way to distinguish boundaries.

Trellis – Trellis comes in many formats and is used to create a privacy or divide a garden into areas when a full screen is not required,  These offer a beautiful way to build enclosures within your garden or outdoor space.

Concrete Fencing – Concrete posts and gravel boards paired with closeboard fencing or panels can provide a very secure, long lasting fencing option. Due to the strength and durability of the concrete, this is an option for the clients who want a fence that lasts a lifetime.

Composite Fencing – composite fencing is made from a mixture of plastic and real wood (typically recycled). The wood forms a natural and authentic aesthetic whilst the plastic creates an incredibly strong fence which is long lasting and more durable than wood only options.

Fencing Types from J Drewe

If you are after a fence for your garden or outdoor area and want to discuss your options please contact us. Our range of fencing types means we are able to find a solution for any of your requirements. Contact us today.

Decking Options

Decking is a great option for a garden or outdoor space. It is often used for garden seating areas, and is a popular choice due to its natural look and feel. Decking can be a good choice for challenging sites where levels can be an issue, a deck can be installed at height with ease, whereas something such as paving would require huge amounts of build-up and extra material.

Advantages of Choosing Decking

There are many advantages to choosing Decking;

• Practical
• Strong
• Weather resistant
• Natural looking

Having a decking area can transform your outdoor space creating multiple different areas and levels, it can also be used for walkways and sometimes seating itself.

Decking Options

At J Drewe, we have been installing decking for many years, our team have the high skill level required to install various decking options for your outdoor space.

Our decking options include;

Composite Decking – composite decking has become popular in recent years due to its long lasting nature, the colours available and its attractive appearance.

Because it is plastic, composite decking is impervious to elements which affect wood such as rotting and insect infestations. Because of this, composite decking offers a low maintenance option for your garden.

Softwood Decking – There are a number of softwood deckings available, these range from the ‘traditional’ pressure treated pine, this can be a cost effective solution, but will not have the same life-span as more durable timber, Cedar and Siberian Larch are also softwood and have a very attractive appearance, although these are softwood they are very tough and will withstand a lot of foot traffic and damp conditions if looked after correctly.

Hardwood Decking – Hardwood such as Yellow Balau or Iroko are a very tough, durable option for a deck, although they will still require some work to maintain their appearance. Hardwood decking can be a beautiful choice for someone looking for something a bit special.

Millboard Decking – Millboard is our preferred composite decking option and is by far the most common deck we install. Our team are all Millboard approved meaning they have the skills, expertise and experience to install this popular decking option. Contact us for more information on the options we have available.

Decking Inspiration

If you’re considering a decking but not quite set on it just yet, why not take a look at some of our previous projects.

For more information on our various decking options or to discuss recommendations for your outdoor area please contact us.

Types of Paving

Paving is a great way to give your garden a specific area – usually used for a seating area. There are different types of paving available. Each different type has different pros and cons.

Whether it’s for a garden, driveway or any other outdoor paving area, it’s important to take options into consideration before going ahead with any work.

Our team are here to advise you if you require assistance or have any questions so please contact us.

It’s important to decide exactly what type of paving you want to use and what is going to be the most suitable for your requirements.

Types of Paving

At  J Drewe we work with the best paving suppliers in the UK to ensure we are providing our clients with top quality products.

We have 4 different types of paving available. These are;

• Block paving
• Porcelain paving
• Natural Stone Paving
• Granite paving
• Clay Pavers

More about our types of Paving

Block Paving – block paving is often used on driveways and pavements. Block paving is highly durable and can be very stylish.

Block paving is normally a concrete product, although there are some beautiful natural stone options available

The great thing about block paving is that individual bricks can be replaced if they become damaged rather than replacing the whole area.   

Porcelain Paving – porcelain paving is entirely non-pourus, this means the surface will not absorb any liquid. This prevents damage and staining. It is extremely strong and long-lasting and very easy to clean.

Porcelain paving can be a fantastic investment if a client is looking for a paving option that will maintain its appearance for a long time and stay looking fresh for years to come.

Stone Paving – there are many different options when it comes to stone paving, these include; granite, marble, sandstone, Limestone or slate. These are all natural stone which are then cut to shape for paving. Because of these there can be some difference in colour and markings.

Stone paving is particularly beautiful and has a stylish finish. It can also be more durable than concrete alternatives.

Granite Paving  – a tight grained and evenly textured paving type, granite paving is another stylish option for modern landscape design.

Granite paving is long lasting and highly durable. It requires almost no maintenance so is a perfect choice for those of us with a busy lifestyle. Granite can be a great choice for high foot traffic areas, making it a popular choice for property entrances and driveways.

Clay Pavers– Dutch clay pavers have proven to be a popular choice in gardens in recent years, due to the many colour options, small sizes and durability it makes them a very versatile product. Clay pavers can be used in driveways, patios, garden paths and laid as an edging.

Paving from J Drewe

When working with us for your paving, we will happily supply you with samples when selecting the type of paving required for your garden. Paving is long lasting so getting the right type for you is crucial. We are here to help in any way we can.

Because we have many years of experience in paving and have a passion for landscaping. We are able to provide paving solutions for all projects, from small garden patios to much larger fully paved spaces.

We supply all tools and machinery required and source all paving and accessories for your project.

If you would like more information on any of the types of paving we offer or would like to discuss your project please contact us.