A large city garden, close to a very busy city road and the sea. The client wanted a interesting garden year-round with space for outdoor living and entertaining, which complemented an exceptional setting, without being overly busy or interfering with natural views of Galway Bay and the Burren beyond. Privacy and security were both important considerations. Ease of turning and parking to the front (north) and access to the garden from the rear (south) were also important.
Formal oval shaped lawns impart simple soft lines that draw the eye southwards to the views beyond. The lawns are bordered by gravel paths which give circulation within the garden and provide pedestrian access from the road to the south through a secure gate and wall arrangement; outside the path is mixed seasonal planting, bordered in turn by secure Ibex fencing combined with robust seaside hedging to provide security, shelter and privacy. Closer to the house, natural Irish Limestone are used for a dramatic semi-circular set of steps, a circular patio and terrace, which provide linkage and a choice of seating areas, one maximising views, with the other giving a more sheltered option. All is softened by luxurious planting to give summer high points and winter interest. To the north, the generous gravel driveway provides ample room for turning and parking, with a car-port allowing ‘dry access’ to the house. The circular lawn is complimented by mixed planting border that provides colour and contrasting forms.