“I’m always eager to help bring homeowners’ gardening visions to life”
We spoke to Landscape Gardener, Adrian Eggleton [pictured] about how he works with green-fingered homeowners at Penny House, McCarthy Stone’s beautiful Retirement Living PLUS development for the over 65s in Olney, Buckinghamshire.
What would you say to someone who wants to downsize to a McCarthy Stone development but is worried about ‘giving up’ their garden?
“I always reassure them that the gardens at McCarthy Stone developments are truly their own. I encourage them to get involved, whether by planting a favourite flower or sharing their gardening ideas. It’s important for them to feel that their green space remains a personal sanctuary.”
What do you love most about your job and why?
“I’ve been working at Penny House for over two years. What I love most about my job is the variety it offers. From keeping lawns impeccably maintained to cultivating my own flowers and vegetables at home, every aspect brings me joy. Additionally, I thrive on being outdoors, embracing all types of weather. It’s a rewarding experience to see the direct impact of my work on the landscape and the community.”
Are the homeowners at Penny House keen gardeners?
“Absolutely! The homeowners are quite passionate about gardening. They’ve established a gardening club where they engage in discussions about the gardens with me. It’s wonderful to see their enthusiasm and involvement.
I encourage them to share their ideas and suggestions, and I’m always eager to help bring homeowners’ gardening visions to life. Whether it’s offering advice or simply listening to their thoughts, I believe collaboration is key. For instance, they recently purchased spring bulbs, and I’ve been helping with where to plant them.”
What got you into landscape gardening?
“I’ve been landscaping for about five years. My passion for gardening began in my youth, and during the pandemic, I made the bold decision to leave my city job to start my own gardening business. It felt like the perfect opportunity to turn a lifelong passion into a profession.”
Which other McCarthy Stone communities do you work at?
“I currently work for several McCarthy Stone developments, including Jupiter House (Milton Keynes), Oakhill Place,(Bedford) Gentian Place, (Aylesbury) Jacob Place, (Saffron Walden) and The Apartments at Royal Gardens, (Buntingford). I also visit other McCarthy Stone developments for one-off projects. My favourite part of working with McCarthy Stone is maintaining the high standards set by the garden designs. It’s fulfilling to ensure these spaces look their best.”
Get gardening - without the hard bits - at McCarthy Stone
Many of our homeowners are keen gardeners and we understand that the idea of losing space to garden can sometimes be a bit of a barrier to downsizing. However, there are plenty of opportunities to flex your gardening skills in a McCarthy Stone retirement community - whether that’s making a private green oasis on your patio or balcony or joining the gardening club and planting up the communal raised beds or pottering in the potting shed*.
And of course there are lots of benefits too. There’s no more mowing, hedge pruning, weeding or digging. Instead, you get to enjoy beautiful professionally landscaped gardens - with stylish seating areas that are perfect for picnics or reading in the sunshine - without lifting a finger.
Find a retirement community - with gorgeous gardens - near you
From independent living retirement properties to assisted living at our Retirement Living PLUS apartments, our lovely homes in stunning locations are thoughtfully designed so you can make the most of your retirement whether you’re just over 60 or heading for 100 - and you’ll have a lively community of new neighbours on the doorstep too.
Learn more our retirement homes near you, call our friendly team on 0800 201 4811 or contact us online for more information.
*Select developments only.
