The Celebrity Dream Garden

Plan view of the Celebrity Dream Garden at Bloom 2026

This contemporary garden is a carefully composed retreat where clean lines, texture, and function come together seamlessly. Designed by Declan McKenna in collaboration with fashion designer and television presenter, Brendan Courtney, it is inspired by Brendan Courtney’s recent project to redesign his garden at home in Wicklow.

Corten steel elements introduce warmth and architectural strength while floating sandstone steps guide you gently down through the space to a sunken terrace designed for relaxation and entertaining. Designed with Brendan’s active lifestyle in mind, the plunge pool offers an invigorating space to recover after swims or long runs. An outdoor shower and lounging area enhance the garden’s role as a restorative environment.

Planting is layered and purposeful, blending strong structural elements such as pleached hedging, sculpted topiary balls, and elegant multi-stem trees with softer perennials and flowing grasses. Three modern statement planters anchor the view and invite exploration through this thoughtfully designed outdoor space.

This garden was developed by Declan McKenna in collaboration with Brendan Courtney. Brendan Courtney is one of Ireland’s best known and well-loved TV presenters, broadcasters Social Media influencer and designers. He has almost completed the renovation of his home in Wicklow, and next will complete the implementation of his dream garden.

Border Focus

This border has been designed for an east-facing aspect within the garden. “Work with your garden’s conditions, not against them. Spend a few days observing sunlight, shade, wind, and drainage before buying plants. A plant that suits the location will thrive with less maintenance. For example, lavender loves sunny, dry spots, while ferns prefer cooler shade.” The feature tree in this border is Zelkova serrata, a tree which has a long season of interest with small spring flowers, bright green leaves which turn golden in autumn, and it can be pruned to if planted in a very small garden. Two clipped Yew balls provide punctuation marks at each end of the border, while year-round colour is provided by a selection of ferns and grasses. Pops of colour from purple Digitalis (Foxglove), Astrantia major Florence® and frothy Lychnis Petite Jenny, demonstrating how repeating colours, textures, or shapes creates harmony, making the garden feel intentional and considered.

Terrace view of the Celebrity Dream Garden Design

Feeling inspired to create your own 'Celebrity Dream Garden'? Click the link below to download the garden pack with design tips, plans and full plant listings:

Celebrity Dream Garden Info Pack