William Scholey: Celebrating Seedheads And Grasses Instead Of Manicured Lawns

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Raised in the lush countryside of Northamptonshire, William Scholey’s innate connection to nature and a deep fascination with birds propelled him towards a career in Horticulture.

After establishing his own garden design business in 2019, he quickly made a name for himself – culminating in the RHS Young Designer of the Year award for his innovative work at the 2022 Tatton Flower Show.

Now operating in London, William continues to create gardens that are both stunning and supportive of wildlife, showcasing his commitment to enriching both the environment and the lives of his clients.

Note that all imagery in this interview is provided with permission by William Scholey.

What are your earliest memories of gardening?

“Growing up in rural Northamptonshire meant my connection to the outdoors was almost inevitable,” shares William.

“I have always had a fascination with birds, to the extent of driving miles to try and spot and identify different species, and quickly discovered the importance of creating habitats for struggling species.

“So, I started creating areas in my mum’s garden that would encourage wildlife and biodiversity.”

What inspired the creation of Scholey Garden Design?

“Whilst working for a local landscaper, I quickly realised that there was a more sustainable, forgiving and artistic way of doing things,” he explains.

“I wanted to be less generous on hard landscaping and more generous on soft, so after picking up all of the necessary skills to build gardens, I decided to start my own company.”

Can you tell us about a project that you are particularly proud of and why?

“I recently finished a project in Nantwich. I am particularly proud of this one as the client shared my enthusiasm for creating a space not only for them but for wildlife.

“I used mainly native trees, British materials and we incorporated a wildlife pond that has already brought so many visitors.”

What are some of the most common challenges you face in garden design and how do you overcome them?

“I think one of the most common problems I come across when working in London gardens has to be the logistics, from parking to access,” shares William.

“Almost always the gardens can only be accessed through the house which makes bringing mature trees into the garden rather difficult. I think having a great team really helps and constant communication with the client.

“I also tend to drop my tools off on-site and then cycle to work, which helps with the parking issue and is also better environmentally.”

How do you ensure that your garden designs are sustainable and environmentally friendly?

“I introduce permeable surfaces that prevent surface runoff,” he divulges.

“I try to reuse existing materials that are on-site, choose British stone or reclaimed materials and plant mature native trees.

“I also try to stick to a ratio of 20% hard landscaping and 80% soft landscaping.”

What’s next for you?

“I have a build coming up in a garden near my London home in Hackney,” says William.

“The client has asked for a wildlife garden so I am excited to work with someone that shares the same passions and understanding of the importance of wildlife in a garden.

“I will be using all reclaimed materials for this one, and it includes a wildlife pond!”

How do you see the future of garden design, and how do You plan to adapt?

“I think we have already seen a huge positive change in garden design. I’m really happy that people seem to be leaning towards more ‘wild’ gardens.

“We’re finally getting out of the habit of insisting on manicured lawns and perfect topiary and are now celebrating seedheads and grasses.

“As well as being better for wildlife, I find this style more engaging and immersive. I would also love to see a ban on plastic grass as soon as possible!

“I like to think I have already started to adapt, but there is always more to be done. I would like to learn more about old sustainable building methods and continue to lessen my use of cement in gardens.”