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5 Reasons to Invest in a Professional Garden Design Before Spring

If you’re planning a garden transformation next year, it’s tempting to wait until spring before getting started — but doing so could mean missing out on the best results. At Harris Garden Design & Landscaping, we see it every year: homeowners who start early enjoy smoother projects, better designs, and gardens ready to enjoy by summer.

Here are five reasons why investing in professional garden design before spring is one of the smartest moves you can make.

1. You’ll Secure Your Ideal Start Date

Spring and summer are the busiest times of year for landscapers across Bolton, Manchester, and Lancashire. Starting your garden design process now means your project can be booked, planned, and ready to build as soon as the weather allows.

By having designs finalised early, you’ll skip the waiting lists and enjoy your new space while everyone else is still trying to book in their work.

2. Better Design, Fewer Compromises

Great design takes time. When you begin the process before spring, you can explore different materials, paving layouts, planting combinations, and design styles without rushing.

Our clients in Bolton often spend time reviewing porcelain paving samples, timber decking options, and planting palettes to make sure every detail fits their lifestyle and home. Early design planning ensures no compromises — just a garden that feels completely yours.

3. More Control Over Budget and Phasing

Starting now gives you time to phase your project properly. You can plan your budget, compare material options, and even spread your investment over a few months.

It also allows us to forecast costs more accurately, avoiding the spring price increases that often happen as demand rises for landscaping materials, paving, and decking.

4. Time to Handle Permissions and Practicalities

Some larger or structural landscaping projects — like garden buildings, retaining walls, raised terraces, or boundary adjustments — may require planning approval or detailed drawings.

By starting your design work before spring, there’s time to handle any necessary permissions, engineering details, or drainage designs without delaying your build schedule later in the year.

5. Enjoy a Finished Garden by Early Summer

This is the biggest benefit of all. By starting now, you can have your Bolton garden fully landscaped, planted, and ready to enjoy as soon as warm weather arrives. Imagine hosting your first summer barbecue or evening get-together in a space that’s been perfectly designed for the way you live.

That’s the real value of professional garden design — it turns your ideas into a plan that works beautifully, both visually and practically.

Ready to Begin Your Garden Design Journey?

At Harris Garden Design & Landscaping, we create bespoke outdoor spaces across Bolton, Worsley, Manchester, and Lancashire, combining thoughtful design with quality craftsmanship.

If you’re considering paving, decking, or a full garden redesign, now is the perfect time to start. Our early design slots for next year are open — so get in touch and let’s turn your ideas into reality.

📞 0800 0016 797
🌐 www.harrisgardendesign.co.uk

A Pergola with Presence | Blending Craftsmanship and Creative Flair

Pergolas are a familiar sight in many gardens, but it’s rare to see one that truly stands out — one that feels designed with intent, creativity, and substance. At Harris Garden Design & Landscaping, we believe a pergola should be more than just a few posts and rafters providing shade; it should be a structure that elevates the whole garden experience.

On this recent project, we created a pergola that combines strength, beauty, and craftsmanship in equal measure. Built from chunky Southern Yellow Pine beams, the design carries real weight and presence — giving the space the feeling of an outdoor building rather than just a timber feature. Every joint was carefully considered, with all fixings hidden from view to maintain clean, uninterrupted lines and a refined architectural finish.

Adding height and scale to a garden instantly changes how the space feels. This pergola does more than frame an area; it anchors it. The thick beams create a grounded, almost sheltering atmosphere that invites you to sit beneath it and slow down.

There’s something powerful about being surrounded by natural timber on this scale — it humbles you, quietens your mind, and enhances that deep sense of relaxation that only a well-designed garden can provide.

At Harris Garden Design & Landscaping, every detail is intentional. From material choice to proportion and placement, we design with feeling as much as function — crafting spaces that don’t just look beautiful, but feel right.

📞 0800 0016 797
🌐 www.harrisgardendesign.co.uk

From Plastic to Paradise | Transforming a Lifeless Lawn into a Natural Haven

In 2025, it sometimes feels as though plastic grass has taken over the world.
Gone are the days when gardens were celebrated for their creativity, craftsmanship, and connection to nature. Too often now, gardens are treated like another household job to tick off the list — and artificial turf has become the go-to “quick fix.”

But at Harris Garden Design & Landscaping, we believe gardens should breathe. They should evolve, inspire, and connect you to the natural world — not seal it beneath a layer of plastic.

Artificial grass isn’t just an environmental problem; it’s also expensive, unnatural, and, quite frankly, it doesn’t look good. We’re asked to replace it all the time, and the transformation is always dramatic.

On this particular project, our client had already gathered three quotes — each one recommending that she simply replace her old, dull plastic lawn with new artificial turf. She told us that calling us for a fourth quote was “the best decision ever” after seeing how her garden was completely reimagined.

Instead of replacing plastic with more plastic, we removed the artificial lawn entirely and designed a low-maintenance, fully planted garden that feels alive, calm, and inviting. Through thoughtful design, we proved that “low maintenance” doesn’t have to mean lifeless. With smart planting choices and natural materials, the space now blends effortlessly with the seasons — no more sweeping leaves off the lawn or worrying about mud and debris. Everything simply belongs.

What was once a flat, uninspiring space is now a tranquil retreat full of texture, movement, and natural beauty. The only downside to this project? We had to leave when it was finished!

A year on, our client is still over the moon with her garden and tells us how much joy it brings her every day. Her full testimonial will be coming soon — and we can’t wait to share it.

📞 0800 0016 797
🌐 www.harrisgardendesign.co.uk

📍 Award-Winning Garden Design & Landscaping in Bolton, Worsley & Greater Manchester

Choosing the Perfect Paving for Your Garden in the North West

Transform your outdoor space with the right garden paving! Whether you’re planning a stylish patio or a practical pathway, selecting weather-resistant, durable materials is key—especially in the North West of England. Here are five top paving choices for all budgets:

1. Indian Sandstone Paving – A timeless favorite, offering natural beauty and durability. Ideal for premium patios with a mid-to-high price range.
2. Porcelain Paving – Modern, sleek, and low-maintenance, perfect for a contemporary garden. Higher cost but long-lasting.
3. Concrete Paving Slabs – A budget-friendly and versatile option, mimicking natural stone without the price tag.
4. Granite Paving – A premium choice, offering a stylish and hard-wearing surface that withstands the elements.
5. Gravel Driveways & Pathways – An affordable and excellent drainage solution, great for low-maintenance landscaping.

Choose your paving based on style, durability, and budget. Looking for professional patio installation in Bolton?

Revamp your outdoor space with the latest UK landscaping trends! Whether you’re looking for a sleek contemporary garden or a low-maintenance outdoor retreat, these modern trends will transform your space while adding value to your home.

1. Sustainable Garden Design

Eco-friendly landscaping is a top trend, with homeowners opting for drought-resistant plants, rainwater harvesting, and wildlife-friendly spaces. Sustainable choices not only reduce maintenance but also help the environment.

2. Porcelain Paving for a Contemporary Look

Porcelain paving continues to be a favourite in UK gardens due to its sleek design, durability, and low maintenance. Perfect for patios, it offers a modern touch while being resistant to weather and stains.

3. Outdoor Living Spaces

Creating an extension of your indoor space outdoors is a growing trend. Think built-in fire pits, outdoor kitchens, and stylish furniture to make your garden a functional and inviting space all year round.

4. Smart Garden Technology

Automated irrigation, smart lighting, and robot lawnmowers are making garden maintenance easier than ever. These innovations enhance convenience while keeping your outdoor space in top condition.

5. Wildlife-Friendly Planting

With an increasing focus on biodiversity, native plants, wildflower meadows, and bee-friendly gardens are becoming more popular. This trend supports local wildlife while adding natural beauty to your garden.

Upgrade Your Garden Today!

From sustainable landscaping to cutting-edge technology, these UK garden trends will elevate your outdoor space. Looking for expert help? Contact Harris Garden Design & Landscaping now to start your journey to creating your perfect outdoor space!

Looking to enhance your outdoor space? Here are the top five garden design tips from us to help you create a stunning and functional garden.

1. Incorporate Multi-Functional Spaces

Modern UK gardens are embracing versatile outdoor areas. Combine patios with pergolas or fire pits to create inviting spaces for relaxing and entertaining. Popular landscaping products like composite decking and modular furniture are must-haves this year.

2. Choose Low-Maintenance Landscaping

Time-saving solutions are trending. Artificial grass, self-watering planters, and composite fencing offer a stylish yet easy-care alternative to traditional garden features.

3. Go for Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Design

Sustainability is a major focus in garden design ideas. Wildflower meadows, pollinator-friendly plants, and permeable paving reduce environmental impact and promote biodiversity. These trends have been widely featured in top UK garden magazines and TV shows.

4. Maximise Small Spaces with Vertical Gardens

With urban gardens becoming more popular, vertical gardening is a top Instagram trend. Living walls, hanging planters, and trellises help maximize space while adding visual appeal.

5. Use Smart Garden Technology

From automated irrigation systems to solar-powered lighting, smart garden tech is revolutionizing outdoor spaces. These innovations make maintaining a beautiful garden effortless and efficient.

Revamp Your Garden Today!

Whether you’re inspired by TV garden makeovers or Instagram-worthy landscaping ideas, these expert tips will help you create a stylish, functional, and sustainable outdoor space. Need professional guidance? Contact us today and start your journey to the perfect garden!