Commended ILI Awards 2024

Nestled within a historic estate near the River Liffey, this private garden balances heritage with contemporary functionality. Drawing inspiration from the early 20th-century gate lodge, the design integrates a structured rectilinear layout with softer organic elements, creating a dynamic interplay between formality and naturalism. The garden is designed to offer both intimate retreats and social gathering spaces, seamlessly connecting with the surrounding landscape while fostering a strong sense of place.

A key challenge was respecting the estate’s historical architecture while accommodating the client’s vision for a multifunctional outdoor space. The integration of structured and informal elements required careful balance to ensure the design remained cohesive and timeless. Accessibility and circulation were also important considerations, ensuring effortless movement between different zones while preserving the mature landscape and natural contours of the site.

The garden design reflects the formality of the gate lodge through large planting beds and hedging, complemented by meandering paths and naturalistic planting that encourage exploration. A raised patio overlooking the River Liffey provides a key focal point, offering panoramic views while also acting as a subtle flood mitigation feature. Locally sourced Irish limestone paving, bespoke heritage railings, and sculptural elements, including a piece by Rupert Till, reinforce the connection to the estate’s architectural and artistic heritage.

This project enhances the estate’s historical landscape while promoting ecological resilience and biodiversity. The introduction of native woodland plantings, wildflower meadows, and sustainable water management strategies strengthens the site’s environmental integrity. By blending structured elegance with organic fluidity, the garden creates a timeless, immersive experience that evolves with the seasons while remaining deeply rooted in its historic context.