When budgeting for a garden overhaul - even of modest size - it's worth keeping in mind a patio can take three people about two weeks to complete and requires consideration of at least a dozen things: 

• Surface materials (type, size, price, colour, finish, laying pattern)

• Edges and steps (height, material sizes, finish)

• Rainfall flow (direction, volume, flood prevention, building protection)

• Foundations and drainage (depth, levels, sewer access and covers)

• Paving joints (width, colour, style)

 

The list goes on... and inevitably much more time is required for planning, design and specification, as well as needing skilled and experienced landscaping contractors to carry out the work.

 

So a full garden redesign, build and planting project requires significant investment; the average cost per m2 can range from £250 - £500+, dependent on materials and finish. Compare this with the average price of house renovations in SE England (£2,000/m2) and you begin to appreciate the value for money.