5 Essential Tips from Garden Designer Agata Henderson

5 Essential Tips from Garden Designer Agata Henderson: The switch to Aspen Fuel has transformed operations for the Cowdray Estate forestry team– delivering significant health, safety and efficiency benefits to maintenance works across the 6,800 acres of managed woodland.

For homeowners looking to start house renovations and extensions next year, the time to start planning is now. Preparation is key, as delaying decisions can often turns last-minute fixes into costly mistakes. Fortunately, Garden Design Expert Agata Henderson has shared five top tips that homeowners should consider right at the start of the planning process to seamlessly integrate their indoor and outdoor spaces and avoid expensive issues down the line.

Agata’s advice details five planning points from ensuring the new kitchen doors are flush with the patio to securing essential side access for future landscaping, saving thousands in remedial work and guaranteeing a seamless transition between the new indoor and outdoor living spaces.

Agata Henderson, Garden Design Specialist said, “As a garden designer, I’m often contacted once clients have finished their house extensions and are ready to create a garden that complements their new space. However, there are common challenges in seamlessly linking the garden with the house. Discussing a few key points with your builder early on can save considerable time and cost later.”

Garden access and levels
Talk to your builder and architect about how the new extension will meet the existing garden. Many people are surprised by the difference in height between their new kitchen doors and the garden. Decide whether you’d like your patio to sit level with the interior floor or if you’re happy stepping down. Remember, raising the garden more than 40 cm usually requires planning permission, so it’s not as simple as adding extra soil. Considering levels early ensures a smoother indoor-outdoor transition and better accessibility.
Doors, windows, and thresholds
The choice of doors can greatly affect how you use your outdoor space. While bifold doors are stylish, they can overwhelm smaller patios—sliding or French doors often work better. Another key detail is drainage. The patio should be designed to direct water away from door thresholds to prevent flooding and damp. Speak with your window supplier about how thresholds drain and ensure the design supports your vision. Small details—like the protective “shelf” under the threshold—can affect whether a flush patio is even possible, so resolve these issues before doors are installed.
Side access
If your extension reduces or removes side access, consider how this will affect future landscaping. Without a clear route, materials and plants may need to be carried through your finished kitchen—adding time, cost, and risk of damage. Plan ahead by clearing the garden or arranging bulk deliveries before construction blocks access. This also applies to tree work or delivery of large plants.
Avoid false economies in landscaping
It can be tempting to ask your builder to “prepare the garden,” but unless landscaping is part of their regular work, this can lead to costly mistakes. I’ve seen paving laid on concrete, outdoor electrics wired unsafely, and other serious issues. Landscaping is a specialist skill that requires understanding of drainage, materials, and regulations. Hiring an experienced landscaper ensures your garden is built safely and sustainably protecting your investment.
Protect your existing garden
Don’t let your garden become a construction wasteland. Ask your builder how they’ll protect existing plants and soil during the build. Even if your current garden isn’t perfect, it’s valuable habitat and a foundation to build on. Retaining and improving what you have saves money and helps your new garden mature faster. With thoughtful design, you can create a beautiful, thriving outdoor space that truly complements your new home.

For more information on Agata Henderson Garden Design, visit www.agatahendersongardendesign.co.uk/.

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