The Walled Garden (Center)

Chris Beytes

They say putting up walls is a bad thing … but not if you’re using them to hide the unattractive realities of your garden center: algae-stained greenhouse walls, plumbing, wiring and other services. Not to mention segmenting and separating your sales areas.

Creative Gardens in Donagadhee, Northern Ireland, has more good examples of “wallage” than we’ve ever seen in one place. We dropped in during a tour of the Emerald Isle last summer and immediately started snapping pix. Here are a few of our favs when it comes to transforming duds into dynamic spaces.



Above left: We love how this wall follows the arch of the greenhouse. The unpainted finish is a good foil for foliage.

Above right: This L-shaped wall creates multiple display areas and textural interest. Note how the circles mirror the curves of the greenhouse—clever!



Above left: On-trend slate gray stain, a trio of rectangular cutouts (echoed by the colorful artwork) and matching two-level benching—what’s not to like?

Above right: Who says you have to be matchy-matchy? Another L-shaped wall in yet another color, with strong horizontal line and an inviting doorway. GP