The White Garden at The Mallow Home & Garden Festival

Mallow Festival: The White Garden

Designed by: Catherine Shiels, Creative Director at The Pavilion

Centred around a striking statement container by SØW-SĒ, created by former Irish rugby captain Peter O’Mahony, this sophisticated garden is a celebration of refined simplicity, sculptural planting and contemporary Irish design. The space has been carefully composed to evoke a sense of calm while showcasing dramatic architectural beauty.

Designed and manufactured in Ireland, the architectural planter combines functionality with craftsmanship, introducing strong geometric form and a refined contemporary aesthetic to the garden. Crafted from galvanised and powder-coated steel, the container acts as both a sculptural focal point and a practical design feature, reflecting SØW-SĒ’s commitment to timeless outdoor design.

Rising gracefully from the statement planter, the Lagerstroemia brings delicate structure and seasonal colour to the space. Around it, bold foliage creates rich texture and contrast, grounding the softer planting palette. White Agapanthus, roses and peonies soften the borders with movement and romance, while upright shrubs introduce elegant vertical structure throughout the garden.

Sophisticated and balanced, this space captures a sense of understated luxury - a tranquil retreat where every detail has been thoughtfully considered.

Planting choices: Lagerstroemia indica ‘Violacea’, Fatsia japonica, Agapanthus ‘Amourette White’, Rosa ‘Iceberg’, White Peony, Callicarpa bodinieri ‘Magical Snow Queen’