The Lakeside Garden Design

This garden is in a remarkable lakeside location in Co. Galway which has informed this landscape design especially the naturalistic planting design


Master Plan of this Landscape Design in Galway
Master Plan of this Landscape Design in Galway

The Remit

The brief for this lakeside garden design was to reduce the overall lawn area, create a more user‑friendly and accessible lakeside space, and explore the option of adding a pontoon for easier water access. The layout needed to protect and frame the stunning views from the home, while also introducing apple trees with a strong emphasis on traditional Irish heritage varieties, alongside several other carefully considered design elements.

Concept design image of pergola and decking area immersed in planting
Concept design image of pergola and decking area immersed in planting

Naturalistic Planting Design

The new garden design is inspired by a naturalistic planting style, featuring a rich mix of perennials and ornamental grasses. Plants are arranged both in sweeping drifts and as individual specimens to create a dynamic, layered landscape that feels organic and ever-changing.

The design is divided into 4 distinct planting zones, each with subtle variations in style tailored to its specific planting conditions and microclimate. Over time, the garden will evolve as perennials grow, spread, and gently merge into one another, forming a cohesive and natural-looking composition.

This flexible approach allows for ongoing development: new plants can be introduced, existing ones can be divided, moved, or replaced, ensuring that each garden gradually takes on a unique character and life of its own.

Concept design image of stepped boardwalks surrounded by planting
Concept design image of stepped boardwalks surrounded by planting

Structural Elements

There are many structural elements within this extensive landscape design. For example, stepped boardwalks weave through the garden, guiding the eye and creating clear, inviting routes that make it effortless to move around and explore the outdoor space. A stylish pergola with decking forms a dedicated hub for socialising, unwinding, and taking in the beauty of the garden from a comfortable, sheltered spot. Finally, a gently curving gravel pathway leads down to the pontoon, improving access to the lakeside, while native planting frames the route and enriches the natural, waterside atmosphere.


What my client said...

I recently had the pleasure of working with Carol aka - The Planting Consultancy service, and I am very happy with the experience. From the very first consultation, it was clear that the she was not only knowledgeable but also genuinely passionate about plants and sustainable practices.

Carol took the time to understand my specific needs and preferences, offering tailored recommendations that perfectly suited my space. I was particularly impressed by their emphasis on native species, which align perfectly with my goal of creating an eco- friendly, natural, garden.

Throughout the entire process, communication was seamless. Carol also provided a beautifully well-organized plan with amazing drawings that outlined each step of the planting process, ensuring that I felt confident moving forward. I am looking forward to getting stuck in with the garden and doing her plan and drawings justice.

Margaret & Joe Bohan, Moycullen, Co. Galway