Narrow Garden
Customer reference for landscaping services as told to pickapro by Barry Wyse from Rathgar on 25-Jan-2006
When was the work done?
Between March 2003 and March 2005. That sounds slow but Sean had to work in parallel with the building project.
What was involved?
We were building a new house and out-buildings on a long narrow 1/5 acre site and wanted to relandscape the site.
First, large diseased trees had to be removed and the site leveled. The landscaping project then involved walkways, a grassed area, planting, ponds, a patio near the house as well as decking around the house. The front of the house was landscaped too and a paved parking area for 6 cars was built.
Creative Garden Design provided a complete service from design to final snagging. Sean also provided me with a horticulturalist who is still available to me. It was a very professional service.
How did you choose Creative Garden Design?
My architect recommended Creative Garden Design to me.
Had you definite ideas in mind before you talked to Sean Keighran?
We knew we wanted a contemporary garden which was in keeping with the inside of our house but also in keeping with the Georgian houses in the area.
I also wanted it to be attractive, have good colour and be easy to maintain because I don't have green fingers.
Did Sean Keighran introduce new ideas?
Yes. He listened to what we said and came back with sketches.
We made amendments along the way too. He also suggested materials which would not have been known to me. For example, he suggested a coloured Donegal granite which looks very nice.
How did the project run day to day? Was there any disruption?
Sean organised first class contractors for the project. They worked to schedule and stayed on budget.
Sean was always there and didn't put up with any rubbish.
What was the biggest benefit to you of using Sean Keighran?
It's important to me that the whole canvas is right i.e that the garden is in sympathy with the house and it's neigbours.
Now, the garden looks like it's always been there. There's very little that we would want to change. It was worth employing an expert to get it right.
What's your favourite part now?
We use the garden all the time now. It's beautiful to look at as well as being nice to use. I like the patio too for entertaining.
Would you recommend Creative Garden Design to others?
No question about it - they were first class.
It's not a project we could have taken on ourselves. It was money well spent.
We're extremely happy with the end result. And everybody who sees it admires it in glowing terms.
Any tips for other people?
Establish a budget and stick with it.
Keep an eye on the work so you can make adjustments before it goes too far.
