The big news here at Andrew Christopher Garden Design is that we are about to embark on an exciting new collaboration with Beaulieu House and Gardens near Drogheda County Louth. Plans are under way to set up our new design studio in the grounds of this magnificent estate which extend to over 400 acres including stunning woodlands, magical buildings, picturesque lakes and abundance of birds and wildlife. I can’t think of a better place to inspire my imagination.
Beaulieu is an ancient estate overlooking the banks of the River Boyne, just over three miles from Drogheda. The magnificent House itself was built by Sir Henry Titchbourne, Marshal of the Army in Ireland, and Governor of Drogheda, on the restoration of Charles II. The house was most likely built in the 1680s (According to recent dendrochronology) and designed by the master Mason John Curle. Curle's designs can also be found at Stackallan House and Conyngham Hall (Which later became Slane Castle.) The house is believed to be the finest example of Irish domestic architecture to survive from the Restoration. The present owner Cara Konig-Brock is direct descendant of Sir Henry.
Cara is a keen gardener and is passionate about preserving this historical site. Under her custodianship, she has spearheaded all kinds of exciting and creative initiatives to insure the survival of the estate. These include the hosting of the amazing music Vantastival and the installation of Irelands largest solar farm. The Beaulieu Solar Project in collaboration with Power Capital Renewable Energy was one of the first to receive planning permission in Ireland. It spans some 22 acres and will provide 6.54mw of clean energy when it is completed later this year. I am so excited and honoured to have been welcomed into Beaulieu by Cara and her family and I am really looking forward to working together over the coming years.
As part of this exciting venture, we will be working with Cara and her team to develop the existing four acre walled garden but also to create a brand-new exciting garden in the Dairy yard where our studio will be located.
You can find out more about Beaulieu house and gardens at https://beaulieuhouse.ie
This move has been brought on by an increasing need to expand due to the volume and complexity of projects we are involved in. Currently we have projects, both private and commercial, up and down the country and as far away as Australia. Beaulieu will offer us space to expand, a beautiful location to meet with clients and an inspirational setting to help us dream up the most amazing of exterior spaces.
We have lots of work to do yet, but exciting times are ahead. Should you wish us to be involved in your exteriors project, be sure to get in touch by emailing info@acdesigns.ie.