Garden SurveyorGarden Design Calculator
Aspect-aware design checks: DPC clearance, slope/gradient verdicts, outdoor step geometry and tree-to-foundation setbacks against UK best practice.
Add return joins a small shape onto this polygon · Add path + area creates a linked pad · Add isolated area creates a separate editable patio part · tap an area button or shape to edit it.
40 advanced inputs hidden. Switch to Advanced to fine-tune.
- Garden area
- 15m²
- Perimeter m
- 16m
- Peak runoff
- 712
- Peak runoff (m³/hr)
- 0.71
Tailored to the garden aspect and dimensions you entered — planting palette, spatial layout and the microclimate things to plan around.
Split the space on the golden ratio, not the middle
Over the 5.0 m long axis, place the first major division about 3.1 m from one end (a 3.1 m : 1.9 m split). This 1:1.618 proportion reads as naturally balanced — a terrace/lawn or lawn/planting break here feels right where a 50/50 split feels static.
Why it matters: Dividing a garden into unequal, proportional zones is the single most reliable way to make it feel designed rather than left over.
What changes it: Derived from the longest plot dimension you entered.
Place focal points on the thirds
Set a key feature (specimen tree, sculpture, water bowl, seating) around the 1.7 m or 3.3 m mark rather than dead-centre or at the far wall, and offset it from the central sightline.
Why it matters: Off-centre focal points on the thirds draw the eye through the space and create a sense of journey; centred ones flatten it.
Small plot — borrow depth, don't fragment it
At ~15 m² keep to one or two zones, use a single material palette and a diagonal or curved line to make it feel larger. Avoid many small beds, which chop the space up.
Why it matters: Over-dividing a small garden makes every part feel cramped; a single bold move makes it feel generous.
Zone the layout for relax
As the main use is relax, give the largest share to a sheltered seating zone with a clear outlook, screened from neighbours, and keep circulation simple so the space feels calm.
Why it matters: Laying the garden out around how it will actually be used — not a generic template — is what makes it get used rather than just looked at.
What changes it: Set from the primary use you selected.
Siting your patio
Place the patio where it catches sun at your main time of use and sits flush against the house or a sheltered corner.
Why it matters: Getting the position of the headline feature right first anchors every other decision in the layout.
What changes it: Set from the key element you selected.
Use the golden ratio to place a focal point
Dividing the 5 m length at roughly 3.1 m from the main viewpoint puts a focal element (specimen tree, water feature, seat) at a naturally pleasing point rather than dead-centre or hard against the boundary.
Why it matters: Off-centre, proportioned placement reads as composed; symmetrical centre-stage placement only works in formal designs.
This app provides general UK guidance and material estimates only. It is not legal, planning, engineering or building-control advice. Always confirm requirements with your local planning authority, building control, utility providers, manufacturers or qualified professionals.