Photo gallery: sunken patio
1. This view from the lawn shows how the design of the patio follows the contours of the house.
2. The patio is informal in style, using slabs of different size, shape and colour. A french drain running along the side of the house helps drain water away from the foundations.
3. Access from the patio to the lawn and side gate is via two sets of paved steps.
4. With this angle you get an idea of how far we had to dig down to get the patio level - almost two feet at the point closest to the house.