Returning: Dream Gardens

Dream Gardens, hosted by landscape designer Michael McCoy, is back in a new series next week on ABC.

Each episode he charts the evolution of a garden from design plan through construction to the spectacular end-result.

“Good design can totally transform the way we live, leading to truly irresistible gardens that make full use of every square centimetre of our ever-dwindling outdoor spaces. The arrival of COVID-19 has elevated the importance of well-designed gardens still further, as they’ve become our primary safe-places for recreation, refuge and restoration, and a critical part of our reengagement with simpler, deeper pleasures,” says McCoy.

Episode One is set in Woodend, Victoria and follows the debut of Movin’ to the Country.

From inner-city courtyards to suburban backyards and generous country holdings, everyday Aussies share the hard work, challenges, and adventure of making their dream a reality.

And every dream is different. Designers are challenged to produce spaces inspired by the evocative Australian bush, the gritty urban industrial style and picturesque native billabongs. The gardens they create will bring families together, give couples sanctuaries, allow children to play and produce fruit, vegetables and even native bush tucker.

There are owners that partner with internationally recognized designers like Phillip Johnson, Hugh Main and Peta Donaldson, and others who embrace the work of up and coming young designers.

Throughout, Michael is there to share his extensive landscape design and plant knowledge. With an ‘access all areas’ pass, he also tours private gardens created by the who’s who of the design world including Paul Bangay’s remarkable city courtyard, Robert Boyle’s exquisite formal but productive country garden, Adam Robinson’s clever and beautiful solution for a parking space and Jim Fogarty’s stunning native retreat. Along the way Michael discovers techniques we can use in our own spaces.

Follow these incredible journeys from concept to creation and witness the breathtaking results in a series created to celebrate the best of Australian design, inspire a love of the natural, and share ideas to enhance the quality of our outdoor living spaces.

8pm Friday July 2 on ABC