Retaining Walls

Expertly constructed retaining walls that bring strength, structure and definition to the landscape, transforming challenging ground into beautiful, practical garden spaces.

Retaining walls play an essential role in many garden transformations, particularly where sloping ground, changes in level or uneven terrain create challenges. Beyond their structural purpose, carefully designed retaining walls can introduce character, create usable outdoor spaces and bring balance to the wider landscape.

At Tom Child, we combine traditional building knowledge with landscaping expertise to design and construct retaining walls that are both practical and visually considered. From modest raised borders to substantial structural walls, every project begins with an understanding of the ground conditions, drainage requirements and the surrounding landscape.

The strength is in what you don't see

A retaining wall does much more than hold back soil.

Unlike a decorative garden wall, a retaining wall must withstand the pressure of the ground behind it, the effects of water and any additional loads from nearby structures, driveways or landscaping.

The quality of its construction depends as much on the foundations and drainage beneath the surface as the finished wall itself.

Before construction begins, we consider:

• Existing ground and soil conditions

• The height of the wall and amount of retained ground

• Foundation requirements and structural stability

• Groundwater and surface drainage

• Additional loads from buildings, driveways or neighbouring land

• Changes in level and surrounding structures

• Access for construction and future maintenance

• Material selection and long-term durability

Larger or more complex retaining walls may require specialist structural engineering and calculations to ensure the design is appropriate for the site.

Taking time to get these fundamentals right is essential to creating a safe, stable structure built for long-term performance.

Choosing the right retaining wall

Every garden presents different structural and aesthetic requirements.

Depending on the setting, ground conditions and intended design, retaining walls can be constructed using a range of materials and techniques.

Options may include:

• Traditional brick retaining walls — offering a timeless appearance that complements period properties and established gardens

• Natural stone walling — bringing texture and character to traditional and contemporary landscapes

• Concrete block construction — providing a strong structural solution that can be finished with stone, brick or render

• Reinforced concrete walls — suitable for more demanding applications where additional structural strength is required

• Sleeper retaining walls — creating a natural timber appearance for suitable lower-height landscaping applications

• Gabion retaining walls — using stone-filled structural baskets to create a more natural, textured finish

The right solution depends on more than appearance. Wall height, soil pressure, drainage, available space and the intended use of the surrounding garden all influence the construction method.

Drainage is just as important as strength

Water is one of the biggest considerations in retaining wall construction.

As rainwater enters the ground, pressure can build behind a wall if it cannot drain away effectively. Over time, this additional pressure may contribute to movement, cracking or structural failure.

A properly considered drainage design can include:

• Free-draining material behind the wall

• Suitable drainage outlets

• Perforated drainage pipes where appropriate

• Geotextile membranes and separation layers

• Surface water management

• Protection of foundations and surrounding ground

Each solution must suit the particular wall and ground conditions.

By incorporating drainage into the initial design, we help protect the structure and surrounding landscape from avoidable long-term problems.

Transforming sloping gardens

Challenging ground can offer some of the greatest opportunities in garden design.

Sloping gardens often contain valuable space that is difficult to access, maintain or enjoy. Carefully positioned retaining walls can transform these areas into practical, connected levels.

We regularly consider retaining walls as part of wider landscaping schemes incorporating:

• Level lawns and family play areas

• Raised patios and entertaining terraces

• Steps and connecting pathways

• Tiered planting beds

• Garden seating areas

• Outdoor kitchens and garden structures

• Integrated garden lighting

Rather than simply holding back soil, retaining walls can become architectural features that define how the garden looks and functions.

The aim is to create natural transitions between levels, making even complex gardens feel balanced and easy to navigate.

Materials that complement the landscape

A retaining wall should feel like part of the garden rather than a purely functional structure.

Material selection plays an important role in achieving this.

Traditional brickwork can complement the architecture of an older property, while natural stone introduces warmth and texture. Contemporary rendered or stone-faced walls can create clean architectural lines in a more modern setting.

We also consider coping stones, jointing, wall finishes, lighting and the relationship with surrounding paving and planting.

Carefully positioned shrubs, grasses and trailing plants can soften retaining walls, helping even substantial structures blend naturally into the wider landscape.

Built with care and precision

Retaining wall construction requires a considered approach from the first excavation to the final finish.

Accurate setting out, appropriate foundations, structural detailing and drainage all need to work together.

Particular care is required where construction takes place close to buildings, boundaries, existing trees or neighbouring properties. Depending on the project, planning permission, Party Wall procedures or other statutory requirements may also need consideration.

Our building and landscaping background allows us to consider these practical challenges alongside the design, coordinating specialist input where required and ensuring the finished structure complements the surrounding garden.

Creating gardens that work on every level

A well-designed retaining wall should provide lasting structural support while enhancing the character and usability of the garden.

At Tom Child, we bring together careful planning, quality materials and experienced craftsmanship to create retaining walls that balance engineering requirements with thoughtful landscape design.

Whether it's creating a modest raised planting area or transforming a steeply sloping garden into a series of beautiful terraces, we approach every project with the same commitment to preparation, construction quality and attention to detail.

Established in 1995 and based in Purley, Tom Child designs and builds retaining walls across Wallington, Cheam, Chipstead, Banstead, Kingswood, Woldingham and the surrounding Surrey and South London areas.