A recap on our latest design and build projects

A recap on our latest design and build projects

Slate Grey garden design patio and borders planting, EdenbridgeWe had a busy and successful 2017 at Slate Grey, carrying out a wide array of design and build projects across Kent and Sussex. These included a large front driveway with new gated entrance leading to a terrace and planting which wrap around the existing property and new extension.

Two projects in Tunbridge Wells

Phase 1 of a design and build project for a client in central Tunbridge Wells. This stage of the project involved constructing a raised threshold level terrace using London Stones oversized Faro porcelain, bespoke stainless drain covers from the Lateral Design Studio along with a subtle lighting scheme. GRP planters with a stainless steel green wall system from S3i completed the design which was produced by Victoria Chesterfield.

Slate Grey garden design new porcelain patio steps detail Tunbridge Wells

We also completed phase 2 for one of our clients in central Tunbridge Wells, this consisted of adding a terrace area which was finished using London Stones Slab Coke porcelain and included a bespoke Cedar screen as a back drop. Grasses where then planted surrounding the terrace which finished the area beautifully.

Slate Grey garden design slatted screen and grasses, East Sussex

We are currently working on two large design and build projects, the first is in East Sussex and has involved extensive site levelling. The new layout of this garden is going to transform the space and is going to look stunning when fully completed. The second is in Sevenoaks, Kent, phase one of this project is two remove 100m + of a failed and rotting retaining wall which has been constructed using timber rounds. We are replacing this with a large structural retaining wall and adding a parking bay; the new wall is going to be finished with stone cladding and up lit. Please look out for future images and updates on both of these special projects.

With a full schedule for 2018 and several exciting design projects underway 2018 is looking like our busiest to date.

Slate Grey garden design site levelling garden area in East Sussex

Slate Grey garden design site levelling for new patio, East Sussex

Skilled landscapers required to join our team

Due to our continued success we are currently looking to recruit skilled landscape gardeners who can deliver high quality work within a busy working environment. They must have experience in all areas of both hard and soft landscaping and should be well presented, organised, enthusiastic and able to use their own initiative. They also need to hold a clean full driving licence.

For more information please contact our office on 01892 663230 or email info@slategreydesign.co.uk

Another award winner joins our design team

Portrait image of Victoria Chesterfield garden designer on the Slate Grey Design team

We are very happy to announce that Victoria Chesterfield has joined our design team. Victoria graduated with Distinction from the London College of Garden Design in 2016 and went on to become joint winner of the SGD student domestic award earlier this year.

Victoria has over two decades of experience in both designing and building gardens and over the past year has already completed several stunning design projects for us.

An award, new member of team and soft landscaping a very special garden

An award, new member of team and soft landscaping a very special garden

In October 2016 Our soft landscaping scheme at project The Brook, Tunbridge Wells (see previous post) was nominated and then received a Royal Tunbridge Wells Civic Society (RTWCS) 2016 Award.

I was invited to collect our award along with the Architect, Building Contractor and Client at the RTWCS annual awards ceremony. The panel particularly liked the overall garden design and planting scheme, very nice comments to hear. Great clients and a special project to be part of.

A very special project

Another rather special event happened in 2016. Both myself and the team also appeared on the BBC1’s DIY SOS ‘The Big Build’ where we assisted with the relocation of Chris Beardshaw’s Gold medal winning Chelsea show garden to the Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital. Whilst on site we assisted with various soft landscaping aspects which included moving the additional 14 tonnes of soil that was required, delivering, setting out and planting of the garden. It was a very special and rewarding project to part of and a great experience for all involved.

Planting up Chris Beardshaws Great Ormand Street Childrens Garden

Chris Beardshaw discussing the garden with DIY SOS presenter Nick Knowles

New member of the team

During 2016 a new member also joined the team, Steve Gardiner. Steve is a very experienced and talented site manager and it’s very nice to have him on board with us. He has already completed several high quality projects and we have lots more lined up for him!

The team received numerous compliments last year both from clients and members of the public for their hard work and efforts on site. With a very healthy looking order book and several projects already underway, 2017 looks set to be another great year for all of us here at Slate Grey.

If you are contemplating a new garden, please do feel free to contact us to discuss your requirements and arrange an initial site visit from myself or one of our designers.

A catch-up review of 2016 and new projects for 2017

A catch-up review of 2016 and new projects for 2017

It seems like an appropriate time to give an update of all that we achieved at Slate Grey in 2016. It was a very busy year for us as a company, with much work coming from recommendation.

We carried out a very wide array of design and build projects during 2016, the highlights of these were:

  • A roof terrace with various bespoke elements in Frant Rd in Tunbridge Wells
  • A contemporary terrace area for a property in Sevenoaks
  • Soft landscaping project at The Brook, Blatchington Rd in Tunbridge Wells
  • A re-designed front garden and driveway at Warwick Park in Tunbridge Wells

Projects currently underway in 2017 include restoration of a large Victorian walled garden located close to the centre of Tunbridge Wells, this is set to be an exciting and an interesting project for the team. We have also started the redesign and landscaping of a basement level terrace and side access to a property in Calverley Park Gardens, Tunbridge Wells. Our design includes new bespoke steel railings, London Stone’s porcelain paving, steps and coping, subtle lighting scheme and water feature, more images to come from both of these as they develop.

Slate Grey garden design lighting scheme on a newly finished project in Sevenoaks, Kent

Whether a Tunbridge Wells town plot or rural idyll on the Kent downs, a wildflower meadow is possible anywhere with Wildflower Turf

Whether a Tunbridge Wells town plot or rural idyll on the Kent downs, a wildflower meadow is possible anywhere with Wildflower Turf

Green circular logo for Wildflower Turf. Slate Grey is a WIldflower Turf Accredited Partner for Tunbridge Wells Kent and surrounding areasI am very pleased to announce we are now Accredited Partners for Wildflower Turf and offer the creation of garden wildflower meadows as part of our services for gardens across Kent, East Sussex, Surrey and throughout the South East.

The wildflower market is one which is attracting a lot of attention and quite rightly so. Wildflower meadow areas created using Wildflower Turf encourage biodiversity, require little maintenance and present garden designers with a whole host of new and interesting design options and solutions.

Wildflower Turf has many benefits for clients wishing to establish a wildflower area:

  • A striking array of natural colour – Wildflower Turf will deliver stunning colour and contrast to any landscape. Using only native plants that support existing flora and fauna, Wildflower Turf will delight the eye and compliment landscapes in a range of diverse settings.
  • Supporting biodiversity – Wildflower Turf naturally produces a biodiverse habitat supporting native birds, mammals, bees, butterflies and other invertebrate species. Where large grass areas can create monoculture, Wildflower Turf can measurably improve biodiversity.
  • A versatile product with a wide range of applications – Wildflower Turf can be used for a wide range of landscaping projects including gardens, parks, estates, schools, verges, steep soil banks and urban spaces.
  • Speed and ease of establishment – Wildflower Turf is the fastest way to establish a wildflower landscape. It’s unique ‘soil-less’ growing method allows roots to establish five times quicker than conventional turf.
  • A low maintenance solution – Wildflower Turf’s unique ‘soil-less’ structure allows roots to bind together to form a thick mat. This carpet of roots naturally suppresses weed growth, avoiding the need for routine maintenance. An autumn cut is the minimum requirement for the upkeep of Wildflower Turf.

We now have a fantastic selection of Wildflower Turf products that we are able to supply and install at very competitive rates and the end results are simply stunning; just see the selection of pictures below.

If you are interested in creating wildflower meadow areas in your garden then please do call or email us for more information.

Wildflower Turf edging the brick path to a home studioWildflower Turf brings the countryside into the garden by edging this tranquil walkway Wildflower Turf used as a border next to a formal lawn

A Slate Grey garden design up for grabs to the highest bidder at The Big ASL Charity Auction

Back in December of last year a colleague asked if I would be interested in donating a garden design as a lot in a charity auction to help raise funds for a school in London, after little thought I agreed, as anything that can help with the education of children has to be a very worthwhile cause.

I have recently heard that the event was a great success and the auction of my garden design services raised a significant sum for the school, which is very good to hear. I am now very much looking forward to working with the successful bidder and helping them to create their dream garden.

A Which? Trusted Trader Endorsement helps takes the guesswork out of choosing a trade professional

Many of you will have heard of the champion of consumer choice, Which? magazine. Well Which? have ventured into the trusted trader market and are now putting their name to a selection of strictly vetted businesses across the UK. The vetting process involves supplying trade references, at least 10 client references and also passing a strict two-hour assessment in which all accounting, insurance, contracts and general business administration is checked. It really is very thorough indeed!

So here at Slate Grey we are very pleased to confirm that we have passed the Which? Trusted Trader vetting process and are now full members of the scheme; this should give any potential and existing clients that all important peace of mind that comes with a recommendation from a trusted source. Visit our Which? Trusted Trader page for more details.

Welcome to the Slate Grey Design, Build & Maintain news page. Here you will find updates on garden design and landscaping projects, lighting and decking, plants and planting schemes, as well as any important events in the Slate Grey diary.

We are an award-winning garden design and landscaping business creating high quality bespoke gardens in and around Tunbridge Wells and throughout Kent, Sussex and Surrey.

Grade II Kent - copy - copy

SAM & JOHN GLENDINNING, KENT

"We used Slate Grey on a large garden design project to complement our Grade II Listed house. This involved constructing three patio areas, designing the planting and creating a lighting scheme. Richard has been delightful to work with ensured every aspect of the project was perfect."

Patio TW - copy - copy

MR & MRS BRISTOW, KENT

"We have been so impressed with how the work has been carried out and it looks brilliant, even better than we imagined.
Please pass on our thanks to your guys, they are the nicest, tidiest and most considerate workers we’ve ever come across."

Hedging E Sussex - copy - copy

MR FOSTER, EAST SUSSEX

"I am very happy with the work, you have done an excellent and very professional job. I am looking forward to the hedging coming to life in the Spring."

10 years Surrey - copy - copy

DAVID & EDITH JESSUP, SURREY

"We have worked with Richard at Slate Grey on a regular basis for over 10 years while he has updated and restored many parts of our large country garden. Richard is very professional and his work is always to the highest standards."

12 Weeks E Sussex - copy - copy

MR & MRS WHILEY, EAST SUSSEX

"Slate Grey designed a contemporary, useable, family friendly garden. They understood our needs and had the vision to create what we required. Every aspect was considered and professionalism apparent throughout."

12 weeks E Sussex - copy - copy

MR & MRS BROOK, EAST SUSSEX

"In just 12 weeks in winter, our 'plot' was transformed from a drab space to a beautiful garden with curves, colour and lighting. Slate Grey were punctual, reliable, and worked with dedication and craftsmanship. We cannot rate them highly enough. They have done a fantastic job and we are amazed at the transformation."

Slate Grey Design is an Accredited Partner trained specialist for delivering wildflower meadows

Welcome to the Slate Grey Design, Build & Maintain news page. Here you will find updates on garden design and landscaping projects, lighting and decking, plants and planting schemes, as well as any important events in the Slate Grey diary.

We are an award-winning garden design and landscaping business creating high quality bespoke gardens in and around Tunbridge Wells and throughout Kent, Sussex and Surrey.

A recap on our latest design and build projects

A recap on our latest design and build projects

Slate Grey garden design patio and borders planting, EdenbridgeWe had a busy and successful 2017 at Slate Grey, carrying out a wide array of design and build projects across Kent and Sussex. These included a large front driveway with new gated entrance leading to a terrace and planting which wrap around the existing property and new extension.

Two projects in Tunbridge Wells

Phase 1 of a design and build project for a client in central Tunbridge Wells. This stage of the project involved constructing a raised threshold level terrace using London Stones oversized Faro porcelain, bespoke stainless drain covers from the Lateral Design Studio along with a subtle lighting scheme. GRP planters with a stainless steel green wall system from S3i completed the design which was produced by Victoria Chesterfield.

Slate Grey garden design new porcelain patio steps detail Tunbridge Wells

We also completed phase 2 for one of our clients in central Tunbridge Wells, this consisted of adding a terrace area which was finished using London Stones Slab Coke porcelain and included a bespoke Cedar screen as a back drop. Grasses where then planted surrounding the terrace which finished the area beautifully.

Slate Grey garden design slatted screen and grasses, East Sussex

We are currently working on two large design and build projects, the first is in East Sussex and has involved extensive site levelling. The new layout of this garden is going to transform the space and is going to look stunning when fully completed. The second is in Sevenoaks, Kent, phase one of this project is two remove 100m + of a failed and rotting retaining wall which has been constructed using timber rounds. We are replacing this with a large structural retaining wall and adding a parking bay; the new wall is going to be finished with stone cladding and up lit. Please look out for future images and updates on both of these special projects.

With a full schedule for 2018 and several exciting design projects underway 2018 is looking like our busiest to date.

Slate Grey garden design site levelling garden area in East Sussex

Slate Grey garden design site levelling for new patio, East Sussex

Skilled landscapers required to join our team

Due to our continued success we are currently looking to recruit skilled landscape gardeners who can deliver high quality work within a busy working environment. They must have experience in all areas of both hard and soft landscaping and should be well presented, organised, enthusiastic and able to use their own initiative. They also need to hold a clean full driving licence.

For more information please contact our office on 01892 663230 or email info@slategreydesign.co.uk

Another award winner joins our design team

Portrait image of Victoria Chesterfield garden designer on the Slate Grey Design team

We are very happy to announce that Victoria Chesterfield has joined our design team. Victoria graduated with Distinction from the London College of Garden Design in 2016 and went on to become joint winner of the SGD student domestic award earlier this year.

Victoria has over two decades of experience in both designing and building gardens and over the past year has already completed several stunning design projects for us.

An award, new member of team and soft landscaping a very special garden

An award, new member of team and soft landscaping a very special garden

In October 2016 Our soft landscaping scheme at project The Brook, Tunbridge Wells (see previous post) was nominated and then received a Royal Tunbridge Wells Civic Society (RTWCS) 2016 Award.

I was invited to collect our award along with the Architect, Building Contractor and Client at the RTWCS annual awards ceremony. The panel particularly liked the overall garden design and planting scheme, very nice comments to hear. Great clients and a special project to be part of.

A very special project

Another rather special event happened in 2016. Both myself and the team also appeared on the BBC1’s DIY SOS ‘The Big Build’ where we assisted with the relocation of Chris Beardshaw’s Gold medal winning Chelsea show garden to the Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital. Whilst on site we assisted with various soft landscaping aspects which included moving the additional 14 tonnes of soil that was required, delivering, setting out and planting of the garden. It was a very special and rewarding project to part of and a great experience for all involved.

Planting up Chris Beardshaws Great Ormand Street Childrens Garden

Chris Beardshaw discussing the garden with DIY SOS presenter Nick Knowles

New member of the team

During 2016 a new member also joined the team, Steve Gardiner. Steve is a very experienced and talented site manager and it’s very nice to have him on board with us. He has already completed several high quality projects and we have lots more lined up for him!

The team received numerous compliments last year both from clients and members of the public for their hard work and efforts on site. With a very healthy looking order book and several projects already underway, 2017 looks set to be another great year for all of us here at Slate Grey.

If you are contemplating a new garden, please do feel free to contact us to discuss your requirements and arrange an initial site visit from myself or one of our designers.

A catch-up review of 2016 and new projects for 2017

A catch-up review of 2016 and new projects for 2017

It seems like an appropriate time to give an update of all that we achieved at Slate Grey in 2016. It was a very busy year for us as a company, with much work coming from recommendation.

We carried out a very wide array of design and build projects during 2016, the highlights of these were:

  • A roof terrace with various bespoke elements in Frant Rd in Tunbridge Wells
  • A contemporary terrace area for a property in Sevenoaks
  • Soft landscaping project at The Brook, Blatchington Rd in Tunbridge Wells
  • A re-designed front garden and driveway at Warwick Park in Tunbridge Wells

Projects currently underway in 2017 include restoration of a large Victorian walled garden located close to the centre of Tunbridge Wells, this is set to be an exciting and an interesting project for the team. We have also started the redesign and landscaping of a basement level terrace and side access to a property in Calverley Park Gardens, Tunbridge Wells. Our design includes new bespoke steel railings, London Stone’s porcelain paving, steps and coping, subtle lighting scheme and water feature, more images to come from both of these as they develop.

Slate Grey garden design lighting scheme on a newly finished project in Sevenoaks, Kent

Whether a Tunbridge Wells town plot or rural idyll on the Kent downs, a wildflower meadow is possible anywhere with Wildflower Turf

Whether a Tunbridge Wells town plot or rural idyll on the Kent downs, a wildflower meadow is possible anywhere with Wildflower Turf

Green circular logo for Wildflower Turf. Slate Grey is a WIldflower Turf Accredited Partner for Tunbridge Wells Kent and surrounding areasI am very pleased to announce we are now Accredited Partners for Wildflower Turf and offer the creation of garden wildflower meadows as part of our services for gardens across Kent, East Sussex, Surrey and throughout the South East.

The wildflower market is one which is attracting a lot of attention and quite rightly so. Wildflower meadow areas created using Wildflower Turf encourage biodiversity, require little maintenance and present garden designers with a whole host of new and interesting design options and solutions.

Wildflower Turf has many benefits for clients wishing to establish a wildflower area:

  • A striking array of natural colour – Wildflower Turf will deliver stunning colour and contrast to any landscape. Using only native plants that support existing flora and fauna, Wildflower Turf will delight the eye and compliment landscapes in a range of diverse settings.
  • Supporting biodiversity – Wildflower Turf naturally produces a biodiverse habitat supporting native birds, mammals, bees, butterflies and other invertebrate species. Where large grass areas can create monoculture, Wildflower Turf can measurably improve biodiversity.
  • A versatile product with a wide range of applications – Wildflower Turf can be used for a wide range of landscaping projects including gardens, parks, estates, schools, verges, steep soil banks and urban spaces.
  • Speed and ease of establishment – Wildflower Turf is the fastest way to establish a wildflower landscape. It’s unique ‘soil-less’ growing method allows roots to establish five times quicker than conventional turf.
  • A low maintenance solution – Wildflower Turf’s unique ‘soil-less’ structure allows roots to bind together to form a thick mat. This carpet of roots naturally suppresses weed growth, avoiding the need for routine maintenance. An autumn cut is the minimum requirement for the upkeep of Wildflower Turf.

We now have a fantastic selection of Wildflower Turf products that we are able to supply and install at very competitive rates and the end results are simply stunning; just see the selection of pictures below.

If you are interested in creating wildflower meadow areas in your garden then please do call or email us for more information.

Wildflower Turf edging the brick path to a home studioWildflower Turf brings the countryside into the garden by edging this tranquil walkway Wildflower Turf used as a border next to a formal lawn

A Slate Grey garden design up for grabs to the highest bidder at The Big ASL Charity Auction

Back in December of last year a colleague asked if I would be interested in donating a garden design as a lot in a charity auction to help raise funds for a school in London, after little thought I agreed, as anything that can help with the education of children has to be a very worthwhile cause.

I have recently heard that the event was a great success and the auction of my garden design services raised a significant sum for the school, which is very good to hear. I am now very much looking forward to working with the successful bidder and helping them to create their dream garden.

A Which? Trusted Trader Endorsement helps takes the guesswork out of choosing a trade professional

Many of you will have heard of the champion of consumer choice, Which? magazine. Well Which? have ventured into the trusted trader market and are now putting their name to a selection of strictly vetted businesses across the UK. The vetting process involves supplying trade references, at least 10 client references and also passing a strict two-hour assessment in which all accounting, insurance, contracts and general business administration is checked. It really is very thorough indeed!

So here at Slate Grey we are very pleased to confirm that we have passed the Which? Trusted Trader vetting process and are now full members of the scheme; this should give any potential and existing clients that all important peace of mind that comes with a recommendation from a trusted source. Visit our Which? Trusted Trader page for more details.

Slate Grey Design is an Accredited Partner trained specialist for delivering wildflower meadows

Based on the border between Kent and East Sussex, we cover a wide radius within the South East – from Sevenoaks to Uckfield, Cranbrook to East Grinstead.

Based on the border between Kent and East Sussex, we cover a wide radius within the South East – from Sevenoaks to Uckfield, Cranbrook to East Grinstead.

website by ginger & fig. copyright © 2015 slate grey

website by ginger & fig

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