GARDENS AND YARDS ARE THE Our jour to outer space.. NEW ‘EXTRA ROOMS’ ney
Diarmuid gives some handy cheap tips to spruce things up
CELEBRITY gardener Diarmuid Gavin says since the pandemic, Ireland has embraced backyards and gardens as an extra “room” in the house.
The award-winning garden designer says we’re full of creative ideas, from bathtubs out back to illuminated plants to using indoor furniture, outside.
Gavin – appearing this weekend at the PTSB Ideal Home Show – told the Irish Mirror: “You don’t need a big space or lots of money. Just a little imagination and you can do great things.”
The garden guru and TV star said: “Don’t be afraid of using indoor furniture outside. We had a couch out last weekend.
“Also get things second-hand in salvage yards. You can get incredible things there.”
Diarmuid is installing a second-hand bath in his garden.
He said: “It’s easier than a hot tub, and you’re surrounded by nature. A bathtub underneath some ferns, surrounded by plants, is great.
“There’s no need for plumbing, just fill it from a hose going from the bathroom to the garden. If you place it over a drain, you can let the plug out and the water will go down there. Lighting is also a trend.
“Last week, I replanted some plants and I under-lit them. It was an incredible transformation.”
He also advises re-thinking stuff you already have in the house.
“Use stuff you already have, if you’re lucky enough to have an outdoor space – even just a small bit.
“Get some fairy lights, bamboos, you can make a reflective feature out of a galvanised dustbin lid.”
Even in the best of Summers in Ireland, it will get chilly, so Diarmuid says keep it simple.
He added: “When you have people over, give them throws. I’m not a big fan of outdoor heaters. I’m more back to basics, like warm coats.
“Make it cosy, use cushions, even on steps. We don’t need to burn fuel, so just have nice rugs for
Make it cosy, use cushions even on steps, just keep it really simple DIARMUID GAVIN
TIPS ON GARDENING
visit and grab a good sun trap.”
When it comes to Spring cleaning the garden, Diarmuid said: “Change the compost, wash the pots out, plant perennials, grab whoever is about for the big lifts, and have horticultural fleece on hand for night time wrapping in case of late frosts.” Garden designer Kathryn Feely, from Dublin Garden Designs, said it’s important to know how you want to
use your outdoor space this summer. She said: “Do you want to have big parties? Do you want to set up a BBQ? Do you want a lush oasis? Think about how you want to use your space – no matter what size it is.”
Kathryn, who is a multi awardwinning garden designer said you’ll use your garden for less than half a year if you’re lucky.
With outdoor furniture, the make is important.
She said, “If possible, use furniture from inside the house and just move it out. Metal can be good.
“Be careful of covers, as you may have to look at them for most of the year. Spending a little more on garden furniture will pay off.
“In Ireland the outdoors has really taken off. There’s so much more on offer.
“Hot tubs and saunas are very popular. You can have cold-friendly water features.”
Diarmuid is at the PTSB Ideal Home Show at Dublin’s RDS Simmonscourt today and tomorrow.
He will also be speaking at the Dunnes Stores Chef ’s Live Kitchen today and on Sunday at 11.45am and 2.45pm.
Kathryn Feely will be at the Phonewatch Ask an Expert Hub, offering expert advice on designing the perfect