GLAS Special: GLDA Seminar 2026 – the interconnection of all things

L-R: Margie Ruddick, Kinta Oakes, Frazer McDonogh

From John Smyth MGLDA

Horticulture

Read More: GLAS 2026 GLAS Special GLDA John Smyth

15 July 2026

This year’s GLDA Seminar in February once again offered inspiration, practical insight, and optimism in the face of climate pressures, biodiversity loss, and urban expansion.

Bringing together landscape architects, gardeners, contractors, designers, and horticulturalists, the event explored how future landscapes can work more intelligently alongside nature.

While the speakers represented a wide range of disciplines, they were united by a shared belief – landscapes can be resilient, biodiverse, and deeply connected to people and place.

Lulu Urquhart

The seminar opened with Lulu Urquhart, whose thoughtful and sensitive approach captivated the audience. She spoke about designing landscapes that allow ecology, memory, and natural processes to coexist. Her projects demonstrated how emotional connections to place emerge through observation and ecological understanding.

Her presentation reflected a profound respect for habitat, biodiversity, and seasonal change. Rather than imposing rigid design ideas, her landscapes appeared to evolve naturally from each site, blurring the boundaries between garden and wilderness while balancing beauty with ecological function.

Adam Hunt

Adam Hunt’s presentation revealed the depth of research and observation behind his work, particularly in habitat regeneration and woodland ecology.

A memorable example came from Abbeyleix Ancient Woodlands, where he described how species such as Prunus spinosa and Crataegus can be used to protect young oak saplings from grazing pressure. The concept of using nature to support natural regeneration was both simple and powerful, offering valuable lessons in woodland restoration and succession.

Designing with nature together

Following the first break, Lulu and Adam returned for a joint presentation – “Designing with Nature”. Their collaboration highlighted the relationship between cultivated landscapes and wild ecological systems, presenting gardens as living ecological dialogues rather than purely aesthetic spaces.

Projects including Giardini Pistola in Italy and the Rewilding Britain Landscape at Chelsea demonstrated immersive, biodiverse environments rich in atmosphere and ecological value. Their work, including collaborations with Piet Oudolf, showcased planting schemes that combine visual impact with carefully layered ecosystems designed for longevity.

Galen Fulford

After lunch, Galen Fulford, founder of Biomatrix Water, delivered one of the seminar’s most innovative presentations. He explored how floating ecosystems and modular planting systems can transform sterile urban waterways into thriving habitats.

These floating landscapes improve biodiversity and water quality while creating more attractive and ecologically functional environments for people and wildlife. His concepts for Dublin’s Grand Canal Basin were particularly compelling, demonstrating how ecological engineering can reimagine degraded urban spaces as living ecosystems.

Margie Ruddick

Margie Ruddick’s presentation challenged the audience to rethink restoration as the rebuilding of relationships between ecosystems, communities, and landscapes rather than simply recreating the past.

Drawing on projects in India, Mexico, China, and the United States, she demonstrated how ecology, design, and culture can work together to create meaningful places. Her work highlighted the importance of reconnecting water systems, wildlife, local communities, and cultural memory. Margie’s vision showed that ecological landscapes can be both environmentally restorative and emotionally powerful.

Neil Porteous

Neil Porteous closed the day with “Plants for Irish Gardens for the 21st Century”, focusing on how planting decisions must respond to climate change while preserving the character of historic landscapes.

Drawing on his work at Mount Stewart, Glenarm Castle, Castlewellan, and Blarney Castle, Neil demonstrated the importance of careful plant selection, horticultural expertise, and long-term stewardship. His presentation included a touching tribute to the late Seamus O’Brien, whose influence on Irish horticulture continues to be widely felt.

Grounded in practical experience, Neil reminded the audience that resilient landscapes are built through observation, knowledge, and the commitment of those who care for them over time.

Conclusion

This year’s speakers shared a common message – future landscapes must be more resilient, biodiverse, emotionally engaging, and ecologically intelligent. The seminar successfully balanced visionary thinking with practical application, offering ideas from professionals actively shaping landscapes around the world.

A huge thank you to the GLDA team for organising another outstanding event, along with the corporate sponsors and exhibitors whose support made the day possible. Special thanks to Bord Bia, Carol Marks, Kerry Gardiner, Laura Douglas, and the many exhibitors who shared their expertise and innovation.

Events such as the GLDA Seminar are vital for the industry, providing opportunities to learn, collaborate, and reconnect with those who share a passion for landscapes and horticulture.

With next year marking the GLDA’s 30th anniversary, anticipation is already building for another memorable celebration of landscape design and environmental stewardship.

For more information on the GLDA’s activities and membership options see glda.ie or email at info@glda.ie