Will you use the space for dining, lounging, entertaining/conversation? How many would you like to seat? Do you want potted plants?

Having a terrace will be so nice. Is a bbq grill and an outdoor dining set on your list already? I hesitated on buying outdoor sofas since London weather is unpredictable but it ended up a great decision - even if I get to lounge on it for just a few great summer London days, it's totally worth it! Lantern lights always make for a pretty terrace, in my opinion. :) B&Q has some nice garden and outdoor light projects on their profile!

Georgie, have a look at this guy's gardens and roof terraces. I think he's great; I found his blog by accident and got addicted to his designs. I don't even want to guess how much he charges for a job, but I'd say his work is definitely worth it.

I'm sure you can find inspiration in his portfolio; if not, his blog has some great tips for small spaces and plants and some of his photos are just spectacular! http://www.mylandscapes.co.uk/chapel.htm

Take a leaf out of Kelly Hoppen's terraces that she has done. They use space quite wellAlso the best investment you can make is to go to Waterstones or Amazon and purchase Caroline TIlston's Rooftop and Terrace Gardens as a great starting point

How about this great split level garden by Helen Williams Garden Design

Hi all, thank you very much for all your responses!

@Studio D Interiors - thank you, I will definitely be using your website and Houzz profile for inspiration!

@hatetoshop - I think I will use it most for just chilling out and entertaining rather than dining, especially given the unreliable British weather....

@Luciana - that blog is great, and definitely one I will be referring back to - thank you!

@ASV Interiors - thank you for the book advice, I'll have a look for it this weekend!

Different height planters and troughs can help divide areas, give a focal point and provide privacy. Have a look at our website for ideas - all the planters are made from fibreglass so they lightweight and maintenance free

!

It's probably done by now. The post was almost 3 years ago!

Lets hope so!!!

Yes, all finished, you can see the transformation here! https://www.houzz.co.uk/discussions/terrace-upgrade-before-and-after-dsvw-vd~3157302

Add a gas fire pit

see Elementi fires uk

steve