Entertainment Garden
Detached Home • Good Access • Suburban Setting
Designer
Barry Murphy
GreenTouch Advisory
Contractor
GreenTouch
Project Size
380 M2
Value
€250 K Plus
Delivery
Four Month Build
Project costs vary depending on timing and market conditions.
Enviromental Context
Orientation
South Facing
Ground Conditions
Sandy Loam
Exposure
Sheltered
Microclimate
Neutral
Design Approach
An open, flowing layout balancing large and smaller spaces for entertaining and everyday use. Subtle terracing manages the slope through gentle level changes, with raised beds adding structure. A natural stream was redirected underground to maximise usable space. The layout accommodates marquee use and a covered outdoor kitchen, with planting designed to feel mature from completion.
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✓ Large paved area for marquee use
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✓ Wide access routes for easy movement
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✓ Water feature as focal point
✓ Terraced layout to suit the sloping site
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✓ Covered bar and outdoor kitchen area
BEFORE AFTER
How the design evolved
Garden layout
The layout was reworked to create a clear open area capable of accommodating marquee use, while still maintaining structure and flow across the garden.
Responding to site levels
The natural slope was resolved through subtle terracing, allowing level changes to feel integrated rather than obvious.
Managing the existing stream
A stream running through the site was redirected and piped underground, unlocking the full usable footprint of the garden.
Creating defined zones
The space was organised into clear areas for hosting, dining, and everyday use, ensuring the garden works at different scales.
Establishing focal points
Long views from the house required strong focal elements to anchor the space. A restored oak pergola, built from salvaged beams and planted with wisteria, creates one focal point, while a hand-selected Kilkenny limestone water feature, custom-made and craned into position, forms a second feature to draw the eye through the garden.
Lighting strategy
A layered lighting scheme was introduced, including feature illumination, to extend the use of the garden into the evening. A fully integrated system allows control from a mobile device, with adjustable LED settings for different uses and occasions.
Outdoor kitchen and bar area
A covered outdoor kitchen and bar area was positioned to the side of the garden, set out of primary view. The space accommodates a full bar setup, including kegs, gas barbecue, and integrated refrigeration.
Planting strategy
Mature trees and shrubs were craned into position to deliver instant structure and presence. Herbaceous borders and low-growing shrubs provide strong seasonal impact, supported by extensive spring and summer bulb planting for year-round interest.