With more than 30 years of hands-on horticultural experience, I create gardens that feel natural, sustainable, and grounded in Ireland’s unique growing conditions.
Garden Design Services in Cork & Across Ireland
Create a garden you’ll love for years to come with a bespoke design personally crafted by Peter Dowdall. From quick online consultations to full masterplans, I specialise in designing gardens that work with Ireland’s climate, your lifestyle, and the natural character of your space.
Or scroll to explore all available services.
Bespoke Garden Design by an Irish Horticultural Expert
Every garden has a story. My job is to help yours come to life.
With more than 30 years of hands-on horticultural experience, television work, and design projects across Ireland, I’ve learned that the best gardens are the ones shaped around you, your soil, your climate, your home, and your way of living outdoors.
Whether your garden is a small urban plot in Cork, a larger rural space, or a brand-new build, I design with the principles that matter most in Irish gardens:
Right plant, right place
Long-term sustainability
Pollinator-friendly planting
Low-maintenance options
Seasonal structure and interest
Strong design that settles naturally into its surroundings
Tailored Design with Expert Guidance
Why Choose Our Garden Design Services?
30+ Years of Practical, On-the-Ground Expertise
I’ve worked with hundreds of Irish gardeners over the years, from quick consultations to full-scale redesigns.
Every design is grounded in practical experience, what works in Irish soil, how plants behave in our ever-changing weather, and how to create a garden that will genuinely thrive.
Tailored to Your Space & Vision
No two gardens and no two gardeners are the same. Whether you want a low-maintenance space, a wildlife haven, a productive garden, or a family-friendly layout, your design is created uniquely for you.
Eco-Friendly & Sustainable by Default
Irish gardens should be alive with birds, insects, scent, and texture. I prioritise:
pollinator-friendly planting,
long-term ecological health,
climate-appropriate choices,
reduced water use,
gardens that require less chemical intervention.
Full Support from First Sketch to Final Plant
I don’t just design and disappear.
I can support you with plant sourcing, contractor recommendations, construction guidance, and post-design advice to help ensure the garden develops as intended.
Planting Plans. Designed for Irish Climate & Soil
A planting plan is one of the most transformative things you can do for your garden.
I design each plan based on:
your soil,
your garden’s microclimate,
your preferred colour palette,
maintenance needs,
wildlife and pollinator support,
seasonal structure and interest.
Each plan comes with:
a full plant list,
layout diagrams,
notes on spacing and care,
options for plant sourcing and delivery.
Tailored Design with Expert Guidance
How the Garden Design Process Works
Step 1 Initial Consultation
We begin with either an online or on-site consultation.
I’ll walk through your space, listen to your ideas, identify challenges, and discuss your goals.
Step 2 Design & Planning
Based on your needs, I’ll create a tailored plan, from a simple concept sketch to a full CAD design package or planting plan.
Step 3 Implementation Support
I can advise on plant sourcing, construction materials, contractors, and the best way to bring the design to life within your budget.
Step 4 Follow-Up Advice
If needed, I provide ongoing support post-design to help ensure your garden develops exactly as planned.
Have questions? Contact us here
About Peter Dowdall, The Irish Gardener
My passion is helping people create gardens that feel alive, natural, and personal.
I’ve spent decades working in horticulture across Ireland, appearing on national television and radio, writing newspaper columns, and speaking about sustainable gardening and plant science.
But at the heart of it all is this:
I love helping people enjoy their gardens more.
Every design brings together practical experience, ecological understanding, and creativity, shaped around how you want to live outdoors.
Garden Design & Consultation Options
Here’s an overview of the design services currently available:
Online Garden Consultation
Ideal if you are looking for expert advice on how to enhance your outdoor space, my online consultation service provides a personalised discussion to help refine your garden vision.
Whether it’s plant selection, layout ideas, or design challenges, we’ll explore your options together.
I'll help you to better understand what way to progress the development of your garden in terms of style and theme.
On-Site Consultation
For those who prefer a more hands-on approach, I offer in-person garden consultations (currently available in the Cork City area). This service includes:
- A full assessment of your existing space
- Advice on landscaping, planting, and materials
- Guidance on hardscape elements such as patios, walls, and raised beds
If you need a follow-up plant list, I can provide a personalised selection suited to your garden’s conditions.
Illustrated Hand-Drawn Garden Design
For a beautifully detailed and tailored garden plan, I offer a hand-drawn, conceptual, garden design service. This includes:
- A bespoke illustrated design tailored to your space
- Mood board inspiration and suggested styles
- A detailed plant list to bring the vision to life
This option is perfect for those looking for a personal, artistic representation of their future garden.
Comprehensive CAD Garden Design Package
For a fully detailed and technical garden plan, my CAD-based design service provides everything needed for professional implementation. This package includes:
- A site visit and consultation
- Full CAD or Sketchup drawings, including detailed layouts, planting plans, 3D renders, and materials lists
- Notes on plant selection, quantities, and installation details
- VR Walkthroughs can also be created if desired to give you a fully immersive experience of your designed garden.
This service is ideal for those planning a large-scale transformation and looking for a detailed, structured approach to their garden design.
FAQ
Do you work outside Cork?
Yes. I’m Cork-based and work across Ireland. Online consultations are available nationwide and in the UK; site visits by arrangement.
What’s included in an online garden consultation?
A focused video consultation to review your photos, measurements and goals, followed by practical recommendations and next steps tailored to your site.
Can you create a planting plan only?
Yes. I offer stand-alone planting plans with plant lists and spacing, designed for Irish conditions. Plant sourcing is available for orders from €2,500
Do you organise contractors?
Yes. I can connect you with trusted contractors or collaborate with your own team to deliver the design.
How long does a full garden design take?
Timelines vary with scope and season, but most small to medium projects move from consultation to final plan within a few weeks.
How much will it cost?
Fees depend on garden size and complexity. Online consultation pricing is shown on the booking page; design fees are quoted after the initial consultation.
3D Garden Design with Outdoor Living Ideas
Plant Sales and Garden Supplies
Once your garden design is complete, or even if you have your own design, simply send on the plant list and I can help with plant sourcing and delivery.
Over the years, I have developed an enviable supply chain and I work with trusted nurseries to ensure you receive top-quality plants suited to your design.
If required, I can also provide planting advice to help you establish your garden successfully.
What They Say...
From wildlife-friendly gardens to low-maintenance spaces, I’ve helped countless homeowners create gardens that truly work for them.
“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ "Peter’s expertise turned my blank lawn into a stunning pollinator-friendly garden. His advice and design were invaluable!"
”
“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ "The Eircode Garden Design service gave me a detailed, easy-to-follow plan. Now my garden is thriving!"
”
“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ "Peter's garden design completely transformed my outdoor space. His expert advice and attention to detail resulted in a stunning, functional garden that suits my lifestyle perfectly. The Eircode Garden Design made the process so easy!"
”