Designing a garden that is beautiful, functional and environmentally responsible is no easy task. It often involves trade-offs between competing priorities — style versus sustainability, ease-of-use versus biodiversity. But as David Keegan of DK Garden Design explains, those trade-offs can be resolved creatively when you work with the right materials and design mindset.
In this co-authored feature, we explore how David approaches the interplay between sustainability, aesthetic integrity and practicality — and how Millboard decking fits into that vision.
The Balancing Act in Modern Garden Design
"Whilst there may always be some degree of compromise when designing gardens for clients, there is equally always a solution that does not feel like a compromise," says David.
For David, the true value of a well designed garden lies in its planting palette. Plants form the visual and ecological heart of his schemes. Hard landscaping — such as decking or paving — is there to complement the natural balance and enhance the overall harmony of the space.
By integrating Millboard composite decking and cladding products into this mix, David is able to bridge the divide between manmade structure and organic flow. The result? Gardens that feel cohesive, refined and deeply rooted in their context.
What Does Sustainability Really Look Like?
Sustainability isn’t just about using fewer chemicals or planting native species. It’s also about long-term thinking, ethical sourcing, and responsible choices in materials.
David highlights a persistent problem in the domestic landscaping world: the paving over of front gardens with little regard for environmental impact.
"There is some legislation in place, such as SuDS (Sustainable Drainage Systems), but with little enforcement it is pretty much toothless in the domestic market," he explains.
"At DK Garden Design, we apply British Standards to our design specifications, particularly where planning compliance is required. For example, when designing a roof garden, I specified Millboard decking because it satisfied building control requirements for slip resistance."
Aesthetic Appeal Without Sacrificing Longevity
Sustainable doesn’t have to mean rustic or rough-edged. David’s approach proves that you can specify premium, long-lasting materials that are also visually striking.
"For me, a sustainable material is one that will stand the test of time and still look as good in five years as it did on day one," he says.
That’s why Millboard decking is a recurring specification in his work. Its weather-resistant properties, colourfast finish, and textural realism set it apart — making it a design-led product that offers both durability and visual appeal.
"While Millboard products may require a higher initial investment, they offer unmatched quality, aesthetics, and longevity—delivering exceptional long-term value. Additionally, choosing Millboard products supports sustainability by backing British design and manufacturing."
What Clients Really Want: Practicality First
Clients rarely lead with design philosophy in mind. Instead, says David, their most common brief is refreshingly simple:
“Almost always the first comment made by new clients is, ‘I want low maintenance.’”
David’s job is to balance that request with his own responsibility to create a biodiverse, meaningful and beautiful space. Low-maintenance products like Millboard’s help him deliver that promise without compromising the garden’s spirit.
“Using Millboard decking and porcelain paving allows me to reduce the need for maintenance chemicals, which are harmful to the environment. That’s another environmental plus not often considered — sustainability isn’t always obvious at first glance.”
Why Millboard products Make Sense for Sustainable Garden Design
David Keegan’s philosophy is grounded in sensible, enduring, and ecologically-aware decisions — all of which align with Millboard’s values.
Whether it’s reducing chemical usage, satisfying compliance for planning, or simply designing spaces clients will love to live in, Millboard products help support the full picture of responsible design.
“Sustainability is not just about what you plant, but about what you build, how you maintain it and how long it lasts.”
Want to Learn More?
If you're planning a new garden or rethinking how your outdoor space could do more for the planet — and your lifestyle — visit our Samples page to order up to three free samples or explore how landscape professionals like David Keegan are designing with Millboard products in mind.
