Green Isle

Green Isle was built in 1908; restored and renovated in 2015; and documented in Season 1 of the Emmy-nominated TV show "Life on Mar's: The Home Makeover Show," hosted by Mar Jennings and currently available on Amazon Prime. The garden design was the brainchild of Mar Jennings, who partnered with local sources and tradesmen to create an oasis that both connected to the past and reflected the modern updates to the home. He was hired for the project by the homeowner, Yvonne O'Kane. Just as any well-nurtured garden would, their relationship quickly flourished, evolving from client to best of friends. Green Isle is the first of Mar Jennings's casual luxury designs to feature both landscaping and outdoor rooms, and is not to be missed! The moment you arrive, Green Isle's native stone driveway meanders under the historic cherry trees. Boxwoods, evergreen trees, and shrubs anchor the four-season garden's design. Massive steps/rocks carved into the landscape lead you to the side garden's terrace, perfect for morning breakfast or an afternoon retreat. The rose garden and fountain await you as you pass through the back gardens into a flowering parterre with magnificent views of the in-ground pool. There are many outdoor spaces to ponder as pergolas, trellises, and containers burst with color and texture. A potting shed and changing room are connected by a wisteria-covered pergola. Experience the best views of the back garden from the rooftop pool's deck and lounge, complete with fireplace, TV, and bar. Meet the designer, ask questions, and learn about the evolution of this historic home's garden.

Directions: Follow I-95 N to Westport. Take exit 17 from 1-95 N. From I-95, head southwest on I-95 S. Take Exit 15 for US-1 toward New Rochelle/The Pelhams. Turn left onto US-1 N/Boston Post Road/Main Street (signs for New Rochelle). Turn right to merge onto I-95 N. Take Exit 17 for CT-33 / CT-136 toward Westport/Saugatuck. Continue on CT-33 N to Kings Highway N. Turn left onto CT-33 N/Saugatuck Avenue. Turn left onto Sylvan Road. Turn right onto Post Road. Turn left onto Kings Highway N. The garden will be on the right.

Open Days 2018: June 30
Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Admission to this garden is $7 for members and nonmembers without tickets purchased in advance.

Buy discounted admission tickets in advance! They can be used at most Open Days to make garden visiting easier.
Nonmembers get 6 visits for the price of 5 with advanced ticket book purchase.
Members get 50% off ONLY by purchasing ticket books in advance.

Digging Deeper program: Up Close & Personal with MARvelous, Mar Jennings; at Green Isle in Westport, CT. 11 a.m. & 1 p.m. Registrations details here.