Transform your garden this summer: top ways to create an outdoor space you’ll love

Summer is when your garden really comes into its own. But, if your outdoor space feels dated, or cramped, this may not feel like the case. If this is true to you, now is the perfect time to transform your garden.

With the right approach, you can upgrade your garden from a dull patch of grass to an extension of your loving home. A thoughtful garden upgrade doesn’t just look good, it can make the space feel more welcoming and even add value to your property. Below, we explore some of the best ways to transform your garden and bring your space to life, along with practical thoughts on garden renovation costs and how to make it easier to manage.

Why summer is the best time to transform your garden

Summer is one of the only times in Ireland when the conditions are nice enough to both work on your garden and then enjoy the space when it’s all done. Nice weather and long days mean projects can be done to a high standard, while you get to enjoy the results straight away. Rather than waiting until autumn or winter, upgrading now allows you to make the most of your garden for the rest of the season, and for years to come.

For busy people, an attractive, low maintenance garden isn’t just nice to have. It becomes a place to relax, entertain, and spend quality time together without leaving home.

Garden ideas that deliver the biggest impact

New lawn or garden levelling

A tired or uneven lawn is often the biggest thing holding your garden back. Poor drainage, uneven ground, or grass that looks worn can make the entire space look and feel neglected, even if everything else is in good condition. That’s why starting here may be a good idea. The result is a clean, usable surface that works for children, pets and outdoor entertaining. A fresh lawn can deliver an immediate and very visible improvement.

Patios and pergolas for outdoor living

Adding a patio and/or pergola to your space is one of the most popular ways to give your garden an extra something special. Creating a dedicated outdoor dining area or seating space can help the garden feel like an extension of your home. Somewhere you can bring friends and family to enjoy some time in the sun, rather than a separate area you only visit occasionally. Building a pergola above this area can provide shelter from the Irish weather while also adding a touch of class to your garden project.

This type of project can make or break the garden layout. For many people, this is the job that turns your garden from a sad patch of grass to a social hub for all your friends and family.

Looking for other ways to make your home look more premium? Then check out our blog on how to make your home look expensive on a budget.

Building a garden room or home office

For those working hybrid or remote, building a garden room can be one of the most important garden upgrades available. A well put together home office creates a clear boundary between work and home life, while also protecting you from any unexpected visitors in the back of your video call.

Garden rooms can also be used as gyms, guest rooms or even a relaxed space for older children. While the garden renovation cost may seem high, the added freedom can boost your work life and add long term value to your home.

Garden Landscaping Ideas

Sometimes the issue isn’t one single thing, it’s the overall design. A full garden redesign looks at how the space works as a whole. Social media can provide some great garden landscaping ideas, especially if the space is an awkward shape or has changed as your family’s needs evolved. While this is a bigger investment, it’s often the best way to create a garden that truly fits your lifestyle.

A small touch to transform your garden on a budget

While large projects create the base, it’s the smaller details that make the space feel complete. Once your major work is complete, you may still be looking for some garden ideas on a budget to add that final finishing touch.

Shop around to find some outdoor garden lighting ideas that make the space feel warm and cosy. Built in seating and clever storage help keep things organised, especially for families. Thoughtful planting and raised beds introduce colour and softness without turning the garden into a headache.

These finishing touches are often what turn a good garden into one you truly love spending time in. If you’re still looking for inspiration, be sure to check out Avant Money's garden ideas for big and small spaces.

What to know about garden renovation cost

One of the main reasons people delay improving their garden is they don’t know enough about garden renovation costs. The reality is that costs vary widely depending on the size of your garden, the materials used, and how extensive the work is.

Smaller projects like adding lights or a new fence naturally cost less, while building a garden room or patio represent a higher cost.

How a Home Improvement Loan can help with your garden renovation cost

An Avant Money Home Improvement Loan can make your garden dreams a reality by allowing you to spread the payment over time. Instead of picking a lower quality option or delaying work, you can complete the job fully and enjoy the results straight away.

Spreading the cost over manageable repayments allows you to focus on creating the garden you want, rather than constantly worrying about upfront expenses.

Why choose Avant Money for your garden project?

For those considering a major project, Avant Money offers Ireland's lowest fixed rates on Home Improvement Loans over €30k*.

It’s a simple way to fund your home improvement project that add value to both your everyday life, and your property.

*Rates and loan terms are correct as of 7th May 2026 and are subject to change (Source: CCPC.ie, not including Green Loans). The Maximum APR (Annual Percentage Rate) on all Avant Money loans is 19.9%. Minimum loan term is 12 months, and maximum term is 120 months. Loan terms vary depending on the purpose of the loan. Terms greater than 84 months up to a maximum of 120 months are only available for Refinance and Home Improvement Loans of €20,000 to €75,000.

Representative example:  On a €30,000 loan over 5 years, at a fixed rate of 6.5% (6.7% APR) you will pay €586.98 a month. The total cost of credit would be €5,219.07 and the total amount repayable would be €35,219.07.

Lending criteria, terms and conditions will apply. Personal Loans are available to residents of the Republic of Ireland over the age of 18 and are subject to repayment capacity and financial status. Proof of income and a credit reference agency search will be required to help us approve your request. Personal Loans are unsecured and not available for business purposes, house purchase or investment.

Our interest rates vary depending on the value of your loan and credit profile. We will assign you the appropriate interest rate once your application has been reviewed. To find out more about the loan values and applicable interest rates, check out our rate table at https://www.avantmoney.ie/personal-loans.

Bankinter S.A., trading as Avant Money, is authorised by the Banco de España in Spain and is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland for consumer protection rules.