Front Garden Corner Refresh
Dublin Semi-D • Good Access • Suburban Setting
Designer
Barry Murphy
GreenTouch Advisory
Contractor
GreenTouch
Project Size
13 M2
Value
€2000 - €2500
Delivery
1 Day
Project costs vary depending on timing and market conditions.
Enviromental Context
Orientation
South Facing
Ground Conditions
Sandy Loam
Exposure
Open
Microclimate
Wind Tunnel
Design Approach
An overgrown front corner was cleared back fully, removing all existing planting and roots to reset the space.
A simple layout was introduced with a single focal tree, Amelanchier lamarckii, and a controlled mix of low planting and seasonal bulbs to bring colour and structure.
The lawn was reinstated, with a clean aluminium edge defining the boundary between grass and planting for a sharp, low-maintenance finish.
​
✓ Full clearance of overgrown planting
​
✓ Feature tree for structure and focus
​
✓ Layered planting with seasonal bulbs
✓ Lawn reinstated
​
✓ Aluminium edging for a clean finish
From Planting to Establishment (7 months)
A simple upgrade that works
Starting point
An unused front corner had become overgrown with a mix of plants added over time, with no clear structure or purpose.
Approach
The space was cleared back fully and simplified.
The focus was on creating a clean layout with one focal tree and controlled planting that suits the space.
Soil & preparation
Existing soil was retained and improved using farmyard manure, worked through to support new planting.
Defining the space
An aluminium edge was installed to clearly separate lawn and planting, bringing structure and making maintenance easier.
Delivery & practicality
✓ Completed in 1 day
✓ Can be done as a weekend project
✓ No complex construction required
Why this works
✓ Simple layout, not overcrowded
✓ One focal point anchors the space
✓ Clear edging defines everything
✓ Limited plant palette keeps it clean
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
Planting was kept simple and controlled, centred around a feature Amelanchier lamarckii, with a mix of Nepeta, Geranium ‘Rozanne’, Salvia nemorosa, Choisya, ferns for texture, and Vinca minor as low ground cover, creating a balanced and easy to maintain scheme.