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Project Overview:
This stunning garden renovation in Tonbridge involved the full transformation of an ageing, uneven patio and poolside area into a modern, high-end outdoor living space. Our team removed the original failing surfaces and carried out a complete redesign featuring 220m² of Indian Sandstone Mint Fossil paving, new retaining brick walls, curved pool edging, bespoke bullnose steps and integrated LED lighting throughout.
Project Details
Location: Tonbridge, Kent
Paving Colour: Mint Fossil
Removing the Old Patio & Preparing the Tonbridge Garden
This large outdoor renovation project began with the removal of an ageing and uneven patio that had become cracked, sunken and unsafe over time. The original random-laid concrete slabs were lifting in multiple areas, with failing mortar joints and poor drainage causing water to sit across the surface. Alongside the patio, several existing features—including raised beds, retaining walls, old steps, and the surrounding poolside area—had also deteriorated and required full replacement.
Before installing the new 220m² Indian Sandstone Mint Fossil patio, our team carefully cleared the entire space, lifting all existing slabs, breaking out unstable foundations and excavating the ground to create a clean, solid base for the new layout. We also began dismantling the worn retaining walls and failing edges so they could be rebuilt to match the new design.
This preparation stage is essential for any long-lasting patio installation. By stripping the area back to a stable sub-base and correcting all previous structural issues, we ensured the perfect foundation for the new sandstone, the bullnose steps, edging cobbles and integrated lighting that would follow.
Installing the Indian Sandstone Patio, Pool Surround & Integrated Lighting
With the groundwork completed, we moved on to transforming the outdoor living space with over 220m² of premium Indian Sandstone Mint Fossil paving. Each slab was laid on a full mortar bed to ensure long-term stability, with a carefully planned mixed-size pattern to create a natural, high-end finish. The warm tones of the Mint Fossil sandstone complement the brickwork of the property beautifully and give the entire garden a brighter, more open feel.
Pool Surround & Raised Terrace
A key focus of this project was the poolside area. We rebuilt the surrounding retaining walls and carefully shaped the paving to follow the curved edge of the swimming pool. This required precision cutting and perfect levelling to ensure safe, slip-resistant access around the water. The raised terrace at the top of the steps was also fully repaved to match, creating one seamless flow from the home to the pool and down into the garden.
To finish the edges, we installed matching sandstone coping stones and a detailed edging of natural cobbles, adding character while keeping the layout clean and structurally secure.
Bullnose Steps With Feature Lighting
One of the standout features of this project is the newly constructed staircase, built using rounded bullnose sandstone treads. Each step was installed with accuracy to ensure even risers and safe access between levels.
To enhance the space further—especially during the evenings—we installed a fully integrated lighting system. This included:
Recessed step lights built directly into the bullnose treads
Wall-mounted feature lights on the stone retaining walls
Low-level pathway lights around the patio and pool area
These lights illuminate the paving beautifully, emphasise the natural texture of the sandstone and create a luxury, resort-style atmosphere at night. The reflective surface of the pool enhances the lighting even further, giving the garden a warm, inviting glow.
A Complete High-End Transformation
The combination of premium sandstone, curved pool edging, detailed cobble borders and custom lighting has completely transformed this Tonbridge garden. What was once an uneven, ageing patio is now a luxury outdoor entertaining area designed for year-round enjoyment.
Get In Touch Today!
Kent Drives and Patios specialise in high–quality brickwork, bespoke steps and premium sandstone installations across Tonbridge and the surrounding areas. This project is a perfect example of the craftsmanship and detail we bring to every garden transformation — from structural retaining walls to luxury bullnose steps and beautifully laid Indian Sandstone patios.
If you’re looking to upgrade tired outdoor spaces, improve access around your home or create a more usable and elegant garden, get in touch with us today for a free, no-obligation quotation.
