First up we look at the world’s most famous garden event, The RHS Chelsea Flower Show and some of its show stopping gardens for you to draw inspiration from, or simply awe at the imagination used for each installment. Each year, new varieties of flowers are presented at Chelsea, from all over the world, so we take a look at some of these beautiful creations too. We also recap on Ireland’s largest garden festival, Bord Bia’s Bloom, as it welcomed its one millionth visitor through its gates back in June!
Ever wondered how some of the marvelous gardens open to the public look as fantastic as they do? Well we talk to the owners of Knockpatrick Garden in County Limerick and they let us in on their secrets for keeping this beautiful garden in top shape, as well as its history!
Taking on a garden redesign can be daunting, so we look at what Jo from Caragh Nurseries has done with her own garden to give it a complete makeover. We also look at the pros and cons for artificial lawns as they have been growing in popularity over recent years. Castlewellan Arboretum and Annesley Garden in County Down receives a prestigious award in recognition of its tree collection and we feature a recently launched book entitled Field of Dreams by Bob Salisbury on transforming a rural desert into a thriving wildlife garden.
Lastly, if you want to add in some interest without too much effort, why not add in some potted plants or garden decorations? Our selection should help give you plenty of ideas.
As for our readers’ homes this month we visit a formerly rundown lakeside cabin that has been transformed into a bright, wood panelled comfortable retreat in County Westmeath. In the beautiful countryside of County Down sits the recently renovated and stylish home of Mike and Kate who moved to Northern Ireland to be closer to family and in Limerick, Des and Kathleen transform a once derelict church into a modern masterpiece.
Our reader’s kitchen this issue is a bright and shining design by Newcastle Design who have used clean lines and bespoke finishes to create a modern and stylish space.
Our travel this issue takes us on a fly drive in the south of the US seeking some of the best music spots in the country! Closer to home we showcase a taster of summer festivals that are taking place the length and breadth of the country. Our cookery pages focus on delicious meat free dishes from Bosh.
We hope you enjoy this jam packed issue, and as always, if you have a home that you would like to see featured in the magazine contact editorial on 028 9147 3979 or editorial@ihil.net
