Introduction: The Challenges of a New Build Garden
New build homes often come with outdoor spaces that lack character, privacy, and proper drainage. Many homeowners find themselves staring at a blank canvas—typically a patch of lawn with poor soil, waterlogging issues, and little screening from neighbours.
This was exactly the challenge faced by one homeowner in Sarisbury Green, whose garden suffered from flooding in winter, minimal privacy, and a lack of biodiversity. However, with the help of Vicky Lincoln Garden Design and Solent Garden Services, this uninspiring space was transformed into a stunning, functional, and wildlife-friendly retreat.
In this article, we’ll explore:
✔ How poor drainage was solved using smart landscaping techniques
✔ The best paving choice for a new build garden (and why natural stone won)
✔ Privacy solutions that don’t sacrifice style
✔ Planting strategies to boost biodiversity and reduce maintenance
✔ Key takeaways for anyone renovating a new build garden
Whether you’re searching for “new build garden ideas,” “gardens ideas for better drainage,” or “paving ideas for a new build garden,” this case study will provide inspiration and practical solutions.
The Before: A Classic New Build Garden with Big Problems
When Rob Woodhouse from Solent Garden Services first visited the site, the garden was “just literally a lawn”—a common starting point for many new builds.
“Classic new build… there were a few issues to address. Obviously privacy is a big issue with the new builds, and with this particular garden- drainage.”
Key Issues:
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Poor drainage: Water pooled in the garden, worsening in winter.
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Lack of privacy: Overlooked by neighbouring properties.
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Minimal character: No structure, planting, or wildlife appeal.
These problems are all too familiar for new build homeowners, but with the right design and materials, they can be overcome.
The Design: Solving Drainage, Privacy & Style
1. Tackling Drainage with Smart Landscaping
One of the biggest challenges was water management. Instead of relying solely on hard paving (which can worsen runoff), the design incorporated:
✔ Free-draining aggregates – A 10mm gravel was used in key areas to allow water to permeate naturally.
✔ Generous planting zones – More soil means better absorption.
✔ Sloped surfaces – Ensuring water flows away from the house.
*”Vicky’s really considered that in the design and addressed those issues with natural materials… drainage, we’ve used a 10mm aggregate—obviously free-draining.”
Why This Works for New Builds:
Many new estates have compacted soil from construction, leading to poor drainage. By introducing gravel pathways, permeable paving, and deep-rooted plants, this garden now handles rainfall effectively.
🔍 SEO Tip: If you’re searching for “gardens ideas for better drainage,” solutions like gravel landscaping, rain gardens, and French drains are worth exploring.
2. Privacy Without Sacrificing Space
New builds often have small gardens with zero screening. The solution? Pleached trees—a stylish way to add height and seclusion without overwhelming the space.
“Screening with the pleached hornbeams… really considered that with some really generous borders.”
Best Privacy Plants for New Builds:
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Pleached hornbeams (used here) – Structured yet natural.
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Bamboo (clumping varieties) – Fast-growing, non-invasive.
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Evergreen shrubs (e.g., laurel, pittosporum) – Year-round coverage.
🔍 SEO Tip: Searches like “new build garden privacy ideas” or “small garden screening solutions” often lead homeowners to pleached trees and tall hedging.
3. Paving Choice: Blissford Tumbled Limestone for Rustic Charm
The client wanted a natural, characterful look—not the sterile feel of porcelain or concrete. After considering options, they chose Blissford Tumbled Limestone in a warm honey tone.
“It’s beautiful, rustic stone… the client quickly realized gray was a no-go, and this was just a perfect option.”
Why Natural Stone Works for New Builds:
✔ Adds instant character (unlike uniform porcelain).
✔ Durable yet forgiving (minor imperfections add charm).
✔ Blends with traditional and modern homes.
“Embrace the imperfections—that’s what gives it the character. If you want perfect paving, go with porcelain. This is what gives it the soul.”
🔍 SEO Tip: If you’re researching “paving ideas for new build garden,” consider limestone, sandstone, or natural stone inspired porcelain tiles for a timeless look.
The Planting: From “Plant Fear” to Lush Greenery
The homeowner initially had “the wobbles” when all the plants arrived—a common reaction when a garden goes from bare to lush in weeks.
“The client was a little scared of how many plants turned up… she had the fear at one point. But that’s normal!”
Key Planting Strategies:
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Layered planting (trees, shrubs, perennials) for year-round interest.
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Drought-resistant species to reduce maintenance.
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Wildlife-friendly blooms (lavender, echinacea, sedum) to attract pollinators.
Pro Tip: *”Trust the process—the garden will settle in and look even better in 6-12 months.”*
Final Result: A Garden That Works All Year Round
The finished space is now:
✅ Flood-resistant (thanks to smart drainage solutions).
✅ Private (with elegant pleached trees).
✅ Full of life (bees, birds, and seasonal colour).
✅ Low-maintenance (quality materials + thoughtful planting).
“It’s not Vicky’s dream garden—it’s the client’s dream garden.” – Rob Woodhouse, Solent Garden Services
Key Takeaways for Your New Build Garden
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Fix drainage first – Use gravel, permeable paving, and rain gardens.
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Prioritize privacy early – Pleached trees or tall shrubs work wonders.
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Choose natural materials – Limestone, sandstone, or oak for warmth and character.
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Plant boldly – Don’t fear a “this is too much change” feeling—it will in all likelihood settle beautifully.
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Work with experts – A good designer + landscaper = fewer headaches.
Watch the Full Transformation
Want to see the garden in motion? Check out the full video below for an in-depth look at the project.
