Gardens are often treated as the final step in a renovation - but they can completely transform how you live, entertain and use your home. In this episode, we break down the big landscaping decisions, from layout and materials to planting, pergolas and outdoor rooms.

What we cover

• How much to budget for landscaping and where the money really goes
• Designing your garden in zones: dining, relaxing, planting, storage and outdoor kitchens
• Optimise for light - don't just plonk your patio outside your back door
• Choosing paving materials: porcelain, natural stone and gravel
• Timber vs composite decking and long-term maintenance
• Planting strategies that create year-round structure without overwhelm
• Common planting mistakes and how to avoid a messy, high-maintenance garden
• Awnings, pergolas and shade options for the Irish climate
• Garden rooms, offices and adding usable outdoor square footage
• Furniture sizing, durable materials and weather-proof storage

Projects & items mentioned

• Jenny’s living wall by Gannon & Associates Landscape Architecture
• Kate’s garden design by Louise Checa Landscape Architecture
• Amelanchier lamarckii as a favourite tree for seasonal structure and softness

The big takeaway: spend on structure, groundwork and layout first - planting and styling come afterwards.

Follow the podcast on Instagram @ripitup_podcast_official, or follow us - Jenny is @workerscottage and Kate is @victorianrathmines