Landscaping & Patios
Natural stone patios, garden walls, and traditional hard landscaping for period properties using high-quality reclaimed materials.
Hard landscaping around a historic building or curtilage demands careful integration to safeguard old foundations and mirror local character. Dave Heath specialises in sympathetic groundworks, sourcing reclaimed Yorkstone, classic local sandstone, Purbeck limestone, and traditional Sussex brick-on-edge borders. Whether reconstructing a collapsed lime-mortared garden wall or laying a completely new permeable natural stone patio, every project is handled carefully to ensure proper drainage while respecting structural heritage boundaries.
FAQs
Q1: Can you lay a patio using reclaimed or traditional materials? A: Yes, and for a period or listed property, reclaimed or traditional materials almost always look far better than new manufactured paving. I work with reclaimed Yorkstone, Purbeck limestone, old brick, and local sandstone. For listed properties, the choice of paving within the curtilage may need to be approved as part of Listed Building Consent if it involves any new ground-breaking.
Q2: Do I need planning permission for a new patio or driveway? A: For an unlisted property: a patio in the rear garden usually does not need planning permission. A front driveway does if it is over 5 square metres and uses an impermeable surface. For listed buildings or within a Conservation Area: any new hard surfacing, even a patio, may require consent.
Q3: Can you repair an old stone garden wall? A: Yes - garden wall repairs are straightforward when you use the right materials. Old stone walls should be repointed with lime mortar matching the stone in strength. Collapsed sections can be rebuilt using matching stone and traditional construction techniques.
Q4: What materials do you recommend for a natural stone patio in East Sussex? A: For period properties, I like reclaimed Yorkstone for its warmth and history. Purbeck limestone is beautiful and local to the south east. For a more contemporary look that still sits well with an old property, riven sandstone or antique finish limestone both work well. I avoid polished finishes - they are slippery when wet.
Q5: Do you do landscaping on listed property grounds?A: Yes. I carry out hard landscaping - patios, paths, steps, garden walls, gate piers - for listed properties. I am aware of the consent issues and always advise clients on what is likely to need Listed Building Consent before any ground-breaking. I work with the curtilage, not against it.