The public reaction to the garden at Chelsea was phenomenal

It was voted one of the top three gardens to visit at the show. The interest from the press was also huge; from articles in national newspapers to TV shoots on the garden. Visits by all the top garden and design celebrities, such as Alan Titchmarsh and Diarmuid Gavin caused a splash and their praise was universal.

As a design the garden worked superbly. The generous seating and entertainment areas were well used by all visitors. A special favourite with everyone was the sculptural seating and table by Irish sculptor John Coll. The swimming pond saw lots of action during the show ? BBC presenter Wesley Kerr took a refreshing dip for the cameras and the design team cooled off after a hard days work. The innovative Recycled Glass Path caused a lot of interest from all quarters, and looked fantastic when sparkling in the spring sunshine. Visiting celebrities used the path as a glittering catwalk!

The success of this garden was helped considerably by the contribution made by Horticulture Ireland, Bord Bia. Michael Moloney, Head of Horticulture at Bord Bia, said ?We are delighted to be involved in such a prestigious project as this and very pleased that we can promote Irish horticulture and design on a world stage.? There was much other vital support from Irish companies supplying various elements in the garden to individuals pledging their time to help with construction.

Ellen Landscape Designs are thrilled with the phenomenal reaction to the garden. Elma says "I am delighted to be involved with the whole Chelsea experience. It was fantastic to have all the support and positive feedback from the general public. After such a successful reaction we are now in discussion about where the garden can be placed here in Ireland."

The Garden
What makes this garden special is its focus on creating a completely environmentally sound garden landscape. Sustainability is key to the garden design: wildflowers mingle with meadowland and a home is created for wild birds and animals. Old apple trees give the garden a maturity whilst the sculpted landforms evoke the essence and spirit of our natural landscape. A unique feature is the natural swimming pond, bordered by plants that organically filter the water leaving us to swim close to nature without the need for harmful chemicals.

The garden is a simple ecological 'cut and fill' design. The earth excavated from the pond is used to make the landforms of the meadows. Even the hedgerow is reclaimed from building developments.

For more information please visit www.elmafenton.ie