Interviews
RHS Gold-Medalist Rob Hardy On The Lesser-Spoken Challenges In Garden Design
Rob Hardy is an RHS Award-Winning Garden Designer who has established himself as one of the best in the business. With 20 years of experience in the industry, Rob is now based in Harrogate and works on projects across Yorkshire and beyond. We delve into the details of Rob’s Fine Art background, the lesser-spoken challenges with a career in garden design and the projects he is the most excited about in the future. Please note that the images used in this article have been provided with permission from Rob Hardy and Joanne Crawford. How did your background in Fine Art influence your approach to garden design? “My first degree in Fine Art gave me an important grounding in colour, form and mark making,” shares Rob. “I learnt about structure, shape and how to make the space between objects as important as the objects themselves. “It was a helpful apprenticeship in aesthetics and one which has given me practical skills which I use every day in my design process. I still sketch with pencil and paper before moving to the computer and find that my best breakthroughs often come when I go back to those artistic basics.” What inspired you to pursue a career in garden design and horticulture? “I feel very lucky to be pursuing a creative career doing something that I love,” he explains. “Until I retrained in horticulture and garden design, I’d been working in project and operations management. When the opportunity to make a radical career move presented itself, I jumped at the chance. I wanted to do something creative that involved being outdoors. “My Dad’s career as a gardener, as well as childhood days spent at our family allotment or digging my first pond, gave me an early taste for gardens and the joy they bring. Pursuing a career in garden design in many ways was about going back to my roots. “In my teenage years I completed two weeks of work experience in the Forestry Department on Harewood House Estate, where I played my part in planting some of the large trees that are now standing tall. Many years later, and our design studio stands in the same grounds.” Can you share the story behind your favourite RHS Gold Medal-winning design? “The [key] theme for our Macmillan Legacy Garden was ‘Legacy’; a simple concept that I was honoured to bring to life on behalf of Macmillan at RHS Tatton Park. “The brief was to create a space to illustrate the incredible support that Macmillan provides for people who are living with a cancer diagnosis. This challenging journey was illustrated by a twisted pathway which cuts through the centre of the garden. “The planting scheme was initially jagged, dark and brooding, becoming more vibrant, then calming around the seating area. A reflective pool dominated the scheme; a natural place to pause and reflect. “Three large sculptural monoliths represented how one-third of Macmillan’s income comes from gifts in wills. The show garden aimed to raise awareness of this vital service and encourage more of us to leave a gift in our will to Macmillan Support, so that they can continue this good work. “We were delighted when the garden was awarded a Gold Medal and achieved a Best in Show, too. It was a real honour to promote Macmillan’s work with our design and bring much-needed attention to this excellent charity.” What does a typical day look like for you as a garden designer? “We’ve recently relocated our studio to the grounds of Harewood House, on the outskirts of Leeds, so my day starts with a drive through the deer park,” Rob states. “It’s an inspiring landscape to work in. A typical day often involves a bit of everything. Liaising with clients, discussing ideas for concept plans with my team of talented designers, finalising a planting scheme or focusing on the details of a masterplan. “We work with a select team of associates for services like surveying, digital visualisations and landscaping services so I spend a lot of time engaging with them to bring our designs to life. It is varied, busy and challenging but I love it.” What are some of the biggest challenges you face in garden design and how do you overcome them? “Gardens are constantly evolving – they are living, breathing organisms which change over time. Whilst many might consider the garden to be ‘finished’ when all the hard landscaping has been completed and the planting scheme implemented, it’s only just the beginning. “It might seem back to front to some people, but during our very first consultation with our clients, we talk about how the garden is going to be maintained once our landscapers have packed up and gone. “You might say that we start at the end and work backwards. We feel this is so important because we can ascertain right from the beginning how our gardens are going to develop and how we can support our clients to care, maintain and develop their gardens for the future. “All our clients receive a maintenance schedule as a matter of course, helping them and their gardeners to make the most of their new space.” What are your top tips for beginners who are looking to start their own garden? “There’s often a temptation to jump straight in and put pen to paper, but we always encourage our clients to step back a bit before they do that,” shares Rob. “Instead, we like to sit with our clients and form a brief. We write it down so that we can refer to it in future. How do you want it to look, what do you want to use it for? What features do we want to highlight, which views might we want to hide? Think ahead – you’re not creating a garden just for now, but for years to come. “Another important consideration is your palette and the space that you’ve got to play with. Look carefully at the conditions in your garden and the type of property, and try to work with what you have got by creating a garden to complement your home, rather than shoehorning a radical design into the space, which will feel out of place. “We also like to start thinking about who is going to build the garden, and then maintain it afterwards. If you’re thinking about building the garden yourself, you may be more comfortable using certain materials.” Are there any specific projects that you are looking forward to in the future? “We have a range of projects on our drawing boards at present, from delightful family gardens to the expansive grounds of listed Country Halls,” he says. “We are working on an exciting landscape scheme currently for a conversion and development project, alongside an architect, where the focus is on harmonising the built and the natural landscape. “The importance of repurposing land to garden landscape in this way resonates with us as a studio, whilst simultaneously benefitting our clients with an immediate connection to nature.”
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Biophilic Garden Design Secrets With Lisa Norton From Harrogate Garden Design
Lisa Norton, the mastermind behind Harrogate Garden Design in North Yorkshire, is a distinguished Garden Designer known for her unique Biophilic approach. Her designs are not just visually appealing but also aim to enhance wellbeing by connecting people with nature. As the only Biophilic-qualified Designer in Yorkshire, Lisa’s work stands out by offering a unique blend of aesthetics and functionality for any outdoor space. Check out my full interview with Lisa on YouTube or read it all below. Please note that imagery in this article has been provided with permission by Lisa Norton. Can you briefly explain your journey into garden design? “I haven’t always done this,” begins Lisa. “About seven years ago, I changed from a freelance career in sales and marketing. I just got really fed up with feeling like I wasn’t being pushed and doing the same things over and over. I did an interior design course and absolutely loved that, but for some reason, I thought interior design wasn’t right. “I spent a lot of my childhood in nature and after I started on my own garden, I think it all just spiralled from there. So, I did a Diploma in Garden Design, which was a year-long course, and then I went on to do my RHS level two exams, which were harder than I thought they were going to be, but still very useful. “More recently, I trained in Biophilic Design Level 4 – which is really helping me to put some kind of wellbeing into my designs.” can you explain what biophilic design is and why it’s important for you? “Most people don’t know what it is, which is actually really nice for me because it is like an education piece,” she shares. Biophilia is quite a new term that came around in the 60s and became more established in the 80s. It basically describes a human’s innate need to be amongst nature and is felt universally by humankind. “It means [as a concept] that it’s really powerful for every single human on this planet, as we all have [an inherent] need to be in nature – so that we can function physically and mentally at our best. “Biophilic design looks at garden design from a scientific perspective and focuses on elements of nature that affect us positively, and then works to incorporate that into design principles.” How does being trained in biophilic design set you apart from other garden designers? “I think some designers do have knowledge and experience of Biophilic design, it’s part of some of the courses that are out there. However, the fact that I’ve actually done a full Level 4 Qualification in it means that the way I approach everything is from an educated perspective. “I know that the spaces that I create for my clients will give them the ultimate relaxing experience. This includes where they sit, how they get there, what’s in the pathways and what materials we use. “It’s great for clients to know that we’ve got the knowledge of it, but then when we create it, it’s lovely because the clients really appreciate the added level of wellbeing that has been thread through our designs.” is there any project that you’re particularly proud of? “There was quite a small one that we did which was a 4m x 3m courtyard garden,” Lisa explains. “When I first visited the space, I wasn’t sure what I was going to be able to do with it! The client wanted a Mediterranean space, so we ended up building a custom water feature using fired earth and Mediterranean-inspired tiles. “We did some detailing where we put the tiles on the riser of the step and created some ordered complexity. When you’re in a space, the tiny little details give you that elevation. “We converted it from being a really gloomy, dated courtyard into a spruced-up space that was really functional as well.” What Do You Envisage In The Future For Garden Design? “I think we just need to be really mindful of what materials we’re using and where they’re coming from,” she states. “Buying local materials is the key. It can be quite hard when you’re looking at things like porcelain and stuff like that, but the aim should be to try and reduce emissions, to use natural materials and to recycle things that you’ve already got. “I also think that things like green roofs and living walls, which I’m really passionate about, can have a huge impact, especially in cities like London where they’ve got a huge urban heat island effect. “They can really help with wildlife and the air temperature, as well as flooding. Green roofs and living walls are a really good option, particularly if you’re living in cities.” Are there any upcoming projects that you’re currently working on And would like to share? “I’m working with a school trust on creating the first fully Biophilic school of its kind in this country. I’ve designed the inside and outside and had free reign with most of the project, which is lovely. “I feel like I really want to do more in education because I’ve got children at school and I know the education system is struggling quite a bit, so I just want to be able to give some of this knowledge to the kids and the teachers. “In regards to the garden design, I’m working with a Freelance Designer who has just finished at the Yorkshire School of Garden Design. She’s going to be doing some of the garden design whilst I’m doing some of the work at the school. “It’s all quite exciting and I’m loving it!”
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Fergus Garrett: 'My Soul And Heart Is Linked To Great Dixter'
Nestled in the verdant landscape of East Sussex lies Great Dixter, a historic house with gardens that capture the imagination and inspire gardeners worldwide. At the heart of this horticultural haven is Fergus Garrett, a distinguished figure in the world of gardening who has been the Head Gardener at Great Dixter since 1992, working closely with the late Christopher Lloyd, a renowned Plantsman and Author. In this exclusive interview, we delve into the life and mind of Fergus, exploring his journey, philosophies and the legacy he continues to build at Great Dixter. Garrett, known for his dynamic approach to planting and his commitment to biodiversity, shares insights from his decades of experience, offering a unique perspective on the art and science of gardening. Find the full interview with Mollie Brown here: Please note that the images used in this article are provided with permission by Fergus Garrett. How did you venture into the world of horticulture? “It’s all down to inspirational people I’ve met across the years,” says Fergus. “My Geography teacher at school taught us about West African agriculture and I was fascinated by this. I was also interested in Biology and Chemistry and those sorts of things. So, he said to me, you ought to go to university to study something land-based. “So, I decided to make that leap and go to university and I then became passionately involved in horticulture and here we are! From university, I went and worked at Brighton Parks Department, which was fantastic, and then I went and did some landscaping and did various jobs across the world. “I then landed at Dixter and really got into the actual skill of gardening which is where I’ve stayed.” What does a working Day look like for you? “A big part of my day is actually being out in the garden with the team,” he explains. “I’ve got a really great team and we’ve got lots of students as well, so it’s a very vibrant atmosphere where we’re trying new things all the time. Every day is exciting. “But then there are other responsibilities because I’m CEO, so I’ve got to take care of the finances and the way the place is run. We could easily run this place as some, as a place that made loads and loads of profits, but we don’t do that. “We try and give as much as we can to the people around us, the community and people in the horticultural world.” Do you have a particular favourite memory from your time at Great Dixter? “My most favourite memories are with Christopher Lloyd – he was my great mentor. We’d already formed a good friendship by the time I started working at Dixter, but it became stronger and stronger that friendship and he became like a father figure. “We spent a lot of time together, whether that was sitting on a sofa discussing plants, or whether that was supporting each other through hard times. I have wonderful memories of that man. “He was a beautiful person in many, many ways and my heart and soul is linked to this place through him and the memories of him.” How do you balance the more traditional aspects of horticulture with the need for innovation and change, especially because of the changing conditions in the environment? “First things first, Dixter has never been a traditional place,” Fergus states. “It’s got a traditional infrastructure, but the actual horticulture within it, the playing around with plants within it, has always been non-conformist, flexible and innovative. That began with Christopher Lloyd and has been instilled in us here. “So, if we find that something doesn’t do well because of climate change we change it without any problem at all. Also, we never do the same thing and we constantly experiment with new ideas as well. Our tradition is to be experimental. “In regards to the changing climate, it’s not just about recycling. It’s about the green ethics of the people that you’re buying from and forming associations with. It’s going to cost you more money, but we’re going down that route to try and actually do something as a company to make a difference. “There are lots of changes that have already been made at Dixter, but there’s a lot more to make as well. It’s about going as deep as you can into this.” Is there any fundamental advice you’d give to someone who’s just starting out in gardening? “Try and work in a garden where they’re going to teach you,” he suggests. “There are loads of inspirational people out there, so go to a place that takes that responsibility of teaching you seriously and then work hard for them and they’ll open doors for you in many ways. “Try and go and see plants in the wild if you can. Everybody sort of focuses on garden design, but actually the best garden designers have a real knowledge of what goes on in the wild as well. “Also, be really aware, of the environment, the planet and sustainability. We shouldn’t be gardening with chemicals, the industry shouldn’t be using herbicides and pesticides and all of those things, so be aware of that. You want to have best practice because we’ve done enough of that in the past, so that’s really quite important. “Read, observe, visit gardens, find somewhere where you’re going to enjoy the people and enjoy the work. Work hard – that’s really important. “Learn and be really sensitive to the environment that you’re working in.”
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Kate Burtonwood: 'I Would Love To See Horticulturists Treated With More Value'
After 15 years in a different profession, Kate Burtonwood embarked on a career transformation, retraining in Botanical Horticulture at the University of Oxford Botanic Garden. Her experience there and time spent learning under Andrea Brunsendorf at London’s Inner Temple Garden, shaped her into a skilled Horticulturist. Kate’s work has taken her to prestigious locations like Lord Heseltine’s private estate Thenford – and various gardens in Oxford and the Cotswolds. In this interview, we delve into Kate Burtonwood’s inspiring journey, her blog and the creation of The Cultivated Garden, and the insights she’s gained over the years in this ever-evolving field. Watch the full chat with Kate here on YouTube: Please note that the imagery used in this interview has been provided with permission from Kate Burtonwood. what sparked your passion for horticulture and how Did that lead to you becoming a gardener? “Ultimately it really was a desire to be outside and to have a job that was meaningful and connected in some way to nature,” Kate begins. “Whilst doing gardening in an ornamental context isn’t actually the same as conservation work, I believe you can still feel that responsibility to working ethically and sustainably within the environment to try and create something that boosts and helps nature in a garden. “So, having put that together, it seemed like a natural step to go into a practical gardening role for me.” you transitioned from 15 years of working at a desk to horticulture. what was the main motivation behind that? “I came to realise after that quite long length of time that I just wasn’t happy in an office,” she explains. “I didn’t like staying inside all day and I realised that I’d rather be out in the rain, even if it was a bit sort of muddy and cold, than sat at my desk. Even now my team laugh at me for being messy outside. I just love not having to really care about that sort of thing anymore.” Can you explain a little about your role as head gardener at Trinity College? “It’s a really varied role and ironically, I’m not actually out in the garden all the time!” jokes Kate. “I do have quite a lot of planning and admin work to do, but I think given my background in office work I can manage that, and it’s a trade-off for getting the time outside. “I manage a team here. I have three gardeners who work here, some of whom have been here for a long time, one of whom came to us as an apprentice. Working together with them in the gardens is great. “Trinity College has an amazing, historic set of gardens. This is a place where there are areas which have been gardened since the 13th century. What we do is provide a green space for those who are working or studying here to get away from the fast-paced nature of the rest of their lives. It’s vital, really.” you’ve got your own blog, ‘The cultivated Gardener’. Can you elaborate on the meaning behind that? “I just love communicating to people about gardening and a blog is a really lovely way to do it because you can simply put information out there and people can find it when they want it – there’s so much freedom that comes with it. “I guess I wanted to give a flavour of what I do as a professional gardener and how I got where I am, whilst also giving practical advice to people about gardening as well. “People really love receiving gardening tips. We always want information about gardens. I love that we are a nation of gardeners and that it is such a keen interest for so many people living in the UK.” What role do you believe a gardener plays in kind of the larger context of environmental stewardship and sustainability? “I think we’re absolutely vital in that context,” she states. “Unfortunately, I also think we’re really underrated and that’s very sad, as we often lose in favour of building contractors and architects who might not put the gardens at the front of a space. “There’s some really amazing practitioners in gardening and landscape design who have so much to give in terms of the environmental outlook of what a piece of land can be, what it can provide and how we can build sustainability into design in cities and homes. “I think stewardship is a really important word to use and I think it should replace garden maintenance, which gives off the idea that what we are doing is some kind of routine thing which just involves a few tools. “Stewardship gives more of a sense of caring, understanding and creating a green space. I think gardeners should be at the front of that.” what’s next for you? Do you have any upcoming projects with trinity College Gardens? “We have a really big project coming up here to reinstate our main border area,” shares Kate. “We’ve had quite a lot of building work done on the site over the last few years and there’s been a lot of changes already, but our main border area is about 800-900m² and needs amending. “It’s going to be quite an iconic project because of where it is and what we’re doing with it, so watch this space for Trinity Gardens in 2025!”
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Kate Savill Explains How A Gold Medal Win At Chelsea Impacted Her Career
Kate Savill is an accomplished garden designer known for her innovative and personal approach to creating diverse gardens, from urban sanctuaries to large family spaces. Kate’s career highlights include a Gold Medal at the RHS Young Designer of the Year final in 2015, designing acclaimed gardens for the RHS Chelsea Flower Show and working full-time with Gardeners’ World Presenter Adam Frost. Her practice, based in Bristol since 2016, continues to produce award-winning designs, demonstrating Kate’s deep connection to nature and exceptional talent. Please note that the imagery used in this article has been provided with permission by JMA Photography. Can you recall a specific moment or experience that sparked your interest in garden design? “Growing up in the 90’s, there were a lot of home makeover programmes,” begins Kate. “However cheesy they were, I cannot deny their influence on me. I just thought it was so magical how much a space could be transformed by the application of good design (although there were many fails!). “My interest in garden design started when I was around 11-12ish. My mum was watching the RHS Chelsea Flower Show on TV and I remember being really intrigued, thinking it was a complete spectacle of perfection and I loved the snapshots of different design styles from the show gardens.” How did winning A Gold Medal At Chelsea impact your career and opportunities in the industry? “I won my first Gold Medal and everything really did start from there,” she shares. “It gave me the confidence to start out on my own, meeting and working with many people in the industry from suppliers to growers, contractors and other designers around the show, to deliver the garden. “This first major project on a timeframe proved a massive but rewarding learning curve.” How do you incorporate sustainability principles into your garden designs? “I try to use plants to create structure, rather than automatically integrating heavy structural elements like pergolas or large amounts of concrete and other new raw materials. “There’s a lot you can do with the right structural planting, to really limit how many resources you use in a garden design. I love to reuse materials and actively reduce the waste produced in creating the gardens. “I try to use responsibly sourced natural materials and would always opt for natural products where possible, or even better reclaimed. “Using planting that can cope with the increasing variation in temperature and rainfall helps the garden to stay looking good and I am a great supporter of gardening less and allowing the native plants (and wildlife) to creep in. “I really try not to use any chemicals and opt for peat-free and home-grown compost.” Can you tell us more about the challenges and rewards of designing and building gardens for Flower Shows? “It’s always challenging to build a show garden, because there is the deadline of the show opening that you have to be ready for,” explains Kate. “The weather in the UK can be so unpredictable, so however prepared you are, any weather extremes can take its toll on the team. It’s working as a team that is so rewarding and that’s why people come back to build show gardens year on year and that’s the bit I enjoy the most. “It is quite miraculous what a team can achieve by working together on a garden project. It’s also a great place to experiment with new processes or ideas, which you may not have had the opportunity try in a client’s garden.” How do you approach designing a garden in a space with significant limitations, such as small urban areas? “Designing gardens is all about problem-solving and that’s what I enjoy the most about it,” she states. “I love designing small spaces, because they really need to work hard to give the most back. Also, the logistics can be so much more challenging and maybe that’s why I like building show gardens so much!” How can aspiring garden designers develop and hone their own unique style while learning from established designers? “Naturally, you are drawn to what you like in other designers work and that then influences your style. I think it is also good to look at all art forms like architecture, paintings and even music to influence your style. “Also, spending time in nature can really help you to see the natural form and patterns. Seeing what works well when things are left alone can inspire low-maintenance and sustainable gardens fit for the future.” What’s next for you? “Well, quite a big thing has happened – I’ve moved to Costa Rica!” shares Kate. “We came for a longish visit, unsure how long it would be (escaping the British winter!) and have decided to stay on. It’s a very exciting place for any gardener or horticulturist, as there is so much biodiversity and plant life. “It’s very elemental and lush, a total change from home. We are not sure what the future will hold, but I’m in the process of setting up here and have exciting things in the pipeline and am very much looking forward to it.” What’s one piece of gardening advice you wish you could give to your younger self? “Just give it a go, it’s the process of trying new things rather than the end outcome that counts – a gardener’s work is never finished. “Also, I wish I had more confidence in what I’m doing and my ideas. It has taken a long time to realise that you can just keep going!”
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Matthew Haddon: 'Planting Is The Vital Ingredient To A Successful Garden Design'
Matthew Haddon, the founder of Haddon Studio, stands out in the garden design world for his commitment to creating sustainable, ecologically-minded gardens. Based in Yorkshire, his studio is renowned for blending contemporary and classic design elements to craft spaces where people and wildlife coexist harmoniously. Matthew’s work emphasises biodiversity, sustainability and elegant simplicity. In this interview he shares how RHS Flower Shows changed the trajectory of his career and some of the most valuable lessons his career in horticulture has taught him. Please note that the imagery used in this article has been provided with permission by Matthew Haddon. Can you share with us your journey in landscape design and what inspired you to start Haddon Studio? “I grew up surrounded by keen gardeners, especially my dad and his parents, who founded their local gardening club in Leicestershire, which is still organised by my Dad’s twin brother,” begins Matt. “Despite resisting the call of the soil for a good few years, a period as a Tree Surgeon and a series of professional courses led to a career change, and was the second-best decision I ever made (after proposing to my wife). “I started working as a Garden Designer way back in 2010 and set up my own business: Matt Haddon Gardens. This was always a design studio, but for a while we undertook design and build as well – until a slipped disc and resultant surgery put paid to any manual labour! “In 2022, after much thought, we rebranded to Haddon Studio. We had always believed in the importance of creating gardens for both people and nature and with Haddon Studio we made this an essential part of the company ethos – with the importance of biodiversity and increasing its presence at the core of our principles. “We also wanted to show that we were bigger than just one person as although I remain fully involved with every design we do – from the concept to the fine detailing – our work is more than just that of one individual.” Haddon Studio is known for creating sustainable, ecologically-considered gardens. Can you elaborate on why biodiversity and sustainability are central to your design philosophy? “When it comes to being human, especially in the Western World, the act of living challenges how we can be sustainable – all life on the planet consumes resources but we tend to over-consume individually in a world of increasing population growth. “A sustainable approach to this issue is not always to don a hair-shirt and withdraw human intervention, but it is instead about considering all of the choices we make, to balance these against the cost to the environment, and then to create places where people and wildlife can co-exist. “In order to achieve biodiversity increases, gardens are a vital resource. For this reason built to last – and that it is not part of the throw-away culture of fast fashions. This ensures that the input costs where choices are made that are perhaps less sustainable than others can be offset against the longevity of the garden. “Designs that are contemporary but have a timelessness about them are those that last and those are the gardens that will be the most sustainable and the best habitat for wildlife over the long term. “We create biodiverse and sustainable gardens because of the vast pleasure being close to nature provides for people – and that is both for our clients, whose lives are enhanced and improved, but also, selfishly – because creating space for nature, developing habitats and embedding that biodiversity gives us enormous pleasure as well!” Winning awards at events like the Harrogate Flower Show and RHS Tatton Park must have been significant milestones. Can you talk about these experiences and how they have impacted your career? “The RHS holds a privileged position in the eyes of the general public and, thanks to annual coverage of Chelsea Flower Show on the BBC, the notion of Garden Designers and show gardens is practically expected,” shares Matt. “Winning awards at garden shows, whether they are national or local, is therefore a rite of passage for aspiring designers – especially when they are new to their career. Of course the ability to create a show garden demonstrates great skill, but is not always directly applicable to creating great gardens for clients. “The experience of creating a show garden is unlike any other though and that is why so many designers go back year after year. I think show gardens help a designer build confidence in their abilities and that is where they have a positive career impact. “However, although we have not designed a garden for a few years, I had the honour earlier this year of judging the show gardens at the Harrogate Spring Flower Show. This was a great experience and really did show the breadth of talent locally when it comes to designers and their skills. “I like to think that we are giving a little back to the next cohort of designers, helping them to develop and hone their skills to create amazing gardens for their future clients.” What are some common challenges clients come to you with, and how does Haddon Studio help in solving these issues? “Each garden has its own unique challenges which stem from a client’s tastes and budget combined with their garden site, as well as the opportunities it presents and the limitations it may have,” he explains. “Experience helps enormously to overcome issues which arise but the most common challenges tend to be those to do with people and with the site itself. “When it comes to people, the ability to act as an impartial mediator when couples have different expectations for their garden is crucial – finding a mutually acceptable common ground without ignoring the wishes of either party means that everyone can fall in love with the final design. “With regards to the gardens themselves, just recently our biggest challenge has been finding solutions for sloping gardens. Sloping gardens can be costly though, so need careful design, as retaining the soil usually involves building walls and this is not a cheap option – especially when clients would rather be spending money on plants!” Where do you draw inspiration from when starting a new garden or landscape design project? “I have read a lot of books and seen lots of people talk about creativity and I have to be honest, this is still a really difficult question to answer,” he says. “The best way for inspiration to strike is when you are actually in the garden sketching and undertaking the site analysis. Being inspired by what is present, the landscape and the architecture of the home can be really powerful. “I think this is a distillation of years of experience and serendipity on the site which come together when needed. “Of course, sometimes inspiration can take longer to strike. In this case, photos, maps, sketches and plans are gathered and I will spend hours looking for inspiration and doodling over the top of survey plans. “The hours spent are vital (both if inspiration is not forthcoming or if a design idea is being developed) but ironically, the flash of inspiration rarely happens during those hours spent at the desk. “It invariably strikes later that day whilst I’m walking the dog through the woods – so when working on a new project, I try to remember to take a pad and pencil with me wherever I go!” What are the most valuable lessons you’ve learned in garden and landscape design? “I think that good design sets the stage for the whole garden to shine. Whenever I go to visit a garden being built, everything needs to work before the plants and turf are installed because if that is the case then it can only get better. “Similarly, planting is the vital ingredient to a successful garden design as it can take a good garden and make it great. Equally, it can be used to great effect in any garden by hiding what needs to be hidden and drawing the eye to where you want to look. “From a practical perspective though, it will almost always cost more than people think to create an amazing garden – from quality materials that will last, to the cost of the plants themselves if you are not dividing and sowing from seed, to the professional landscapers who install it and should be paid a fair wage. “That does not mean you have to spend a fortune to create an amazing garden, but it does mean that you need to be clear about what you want and how you can achieve it, and that is where a Garden Designer can add value.” Can you share any upcoming projects or initiatives at Haddon Studio that we should look out for? “We are always learning and developing, which is one of the great things about Garden Design,” says Matt. “One initiative that is under its final development stage is a formalisation of our gold standard biodiversity design process, especially looking at ways to demonstrate clearly what we want to achieve, how we intend to achieve it and then measuring a gain in biodiversity to show what we are doing is working. “I have also been working with passive acoustic monitoring techniques, using a recorder installed in the garden at intervals throughout the design process and beyond and using bird song as a way of demonstrating this. Field tests are ongoing but we hope to get it rolling out very soon. “On the garden front, we have plenty to keep us busy over the winter with another interesting sloping garden, but we will continue to seek out exciting projects that allow us to deliver great designs; to showcase our creativity alongside increasing biodiversity at the same time.”
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In Conversation With Rob Jones, Founder At The Garden Design Company Ltd
Rob Jones is the esteemed founder of The Garden Design Company Ltd, a firm established in 1996 that uniquely offers both garden design and build services under one roof. His journey in garden design and horticulture began at Pershore College of Horticulture in 1991, initiating a journey to create inspirational gardens across southern England. Rob speaks to Mollie Brown about his career, how he believes soil is the backbone of any good garden and his plans for the future of The Garden Design Company. Watch the full interview with Rob on YouTube here: How did your love for gardening begin and how has it evolved over the years? “In the late 1980s, I was a lawyer and I was specialising in medical crime but as a sideline, I was making up hanging baskets for sale,” Rob shares. “I would drive up in my Golf GTI to New Covent Garden and load my car up with Busy Lizzies and Geraniums and then park in an underground car park in Old Covent Garden where my office was. I then changed into a suit and did a day’s work as a lawyer before driving home and then making up a hanging basket. “I sold those through several small garden centres and nurseries and one of them then came up for sale in about 1990, but the figures didn’t add up. I thought my time would be better served if I actually went away to college and actually learned something about horticulture and garden design. “So I decided to take a year out and went to Pershaw as a mature student and never really looked back.” What was the pivotal moment that drove you to pursue garden design? “In those days, I was commuting to London and then covering the rest of the country for the Doctor’s Defence Organisation,” he explains. “Invariably, I would be commuting to London in the dark and then returning in the dark. It suddenly dawned on me on one of those horrible commuting days that I didn’t want to do that for another 40 years. “The advantage of having qualified as a lawyer is that you could always go back to it. It’s probably a bit late now, but certainly, at the time, I thought I could go and dabble in garden design and horticulture with the hope of returning if I needed to.” Can you tell us about setting up The Garden Design Company and the work you do there? “Whilst at college, I saw an advert for a garden centre in Marlow in need of someone to set up a brand new design and build company for them. They gave me the job and so I did exactly that. "I learnt a lot very quickly in those four years, and on the 1st of May 1996, we established the Garden Design Company Limited. We wanted to offer a service that allowed people to find a designer and contractor all in one place. "We design and create gardens and also create relationships with our clients, so we rarely advertise and instead just work on repeat business and recommendations from private clients.” describe your Garden design philosophy in just three words. “Natural and sustainable,” says Rob. Could you tell us a little bit about one of the most challenging projects you’ve ever worked on and how you overcame the challenges that came with it? “This year was the first time we’ve ever entered the BALI Awards and we won in both of the categories we entered in, and they’re really looking for challenging projects. “The first one was in Wimbledon and all the materials, the plants, the trees, the soil, the diggers and the dumpers all had to go through the client’s study. What we did was we built a tunnel of timber on the floor, on the walls and on the ceiling through this client’s study so that he barely knew we were there. “We won an award for that, but the other one was almost equally dramatic where access wasn’t a problem, but it was up in the Children’s and it involved the creation of 250 square metres of wildlife pond with 84 tons of glacial boulders being incorporated into the water feature.” How have garden design trends changed over the year, and where do you kind of see them heading in the future? “Nowadays, people are embracing the idea of kitchen gardens and growing your own, whether it’s fruit, vegetables or cut flowers,” Rob notes. “It really is quite shocking when you talk to people about the air miles, food miles that, particularly cut flowers, involve. If we can just stop buying flowers from abroad, and buy more seasonally locally grown flowers, or indeed, grow them yourself, we would make a huge difference.” What’s the one piece of advice you wish you’d received when starting in garden design? “I’ve been doing this for 30 years now, so I’m probably doing something right, but I do think that I should have gone to work for somebody else,” he laughs. “Who knows, I’ve probably been doing it all wrong. I effectively set up my own with the garden centre, but so much of it was self-taught, so I often think that perhaps I should have gone to work for someone else to start with and to have seen how they did it!” Are there any exciting projects or goals you have set for your garden in the near future? “I’m on the board of a wonderful charity called Greenfingers, and we raise money to design and build gardens in children’s hospices so that children with life-limiting illnesses can benefit from being outside,” he explains. “Greenfingers is celebrating its 25th anniversary next year, and we’ve got a couple of big gardens that are being built at the moment for them. I’m looking forward to opening those next season because it’s just lovely to give other people who are less fortunate than you the opportunity to enjoy the outdoor room.”
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These Are The Landscaping Projects Debbie Roberts Is Most Proud Of After Three Decades
Co-founder of Acres Wild with Ian Smith, Debbie Roberts has been shaping exquisite landscapes since 1988. A Fellow of the Society of Garden Designers, Debbie’s approach is deeply client-focused, integrating homes into gardens and gardens into their surroundings with a sensitive touch. With a career that spans diverse landscapes across the UK and internationally, Debbie’s work is celebrated for its fluid, unpretentious spaces and subtle, yet strong structural geometry. In this interview, we explore the story behind Debbie Roberts’ journey as well as the origins of her collaboration with Acres Wild Co-founder Ian Smith. Please note that the imagery used in this article has been provided with permission by Debbie Roberts. Can you share a bit about your journey into the world of garden design? “I met Ian at Leeds Polytechnic (now known as Leeds Beckett) in the late 1980s whilst studying for degrees in Landscape Architecture,” shares Debbie. “Rather than working as Landscape Architects after we graduated, we decided to set up our own garden design practice, focussing on natural, country and wildlife gardens.” Can you describe the journey of Acres Wild since its establishment in 1988? “It took a while to establish the business, as Garden Design wasn’t particularly recognised as something that people would want back then, but it slowly gained in popularity,” she explains. “By 1991, we were beginning to get into our stride and were even featured on the pioneer BBC TV series Gardens by Design, but were hit by a three-year long recession, so we branched out and started teaching at various colleges, including the Inchbald School of Design, as a way of supplementing our income. “By 1995 we were back on course again, reduced our teaching commitments, so by 2000, we were beginning to specialise in the larger country garden projects to which we had always aspired, and for which are now known. “Having contributed to various garden and design book projects around that time, we were asked to write a book about garden ponds, where we were able to showcase some of our own designs and photographs. “More magazine articles followed as well as the website, which we established early on with Ian’s garden photography. These attracted plenty of new customers, including a number of projects in the Channel Islands and a couple of incredible clients in the Californian hills south of San Francisco, where we spent a number of months during 2006-2008. “However, it’s the country gardens, more local to us in Sussex, Surrey and Kent that we enjoy making the most and the ones that have gained us most attention.” How Has your individual background and experience influenced the direction and ethos of Acres Wild? “We both independently studied and enjoyed Art, Geography and Technical Drawing at school, which, looking back, were the perfect subjects for our future careers. “We were also both passionate about nature and conservation, which led to us working together on similar projects during our degrees at Leeds Polytechnic and hence our later decision to work together as a design team.” Can you share a project that you’re particularly proud of? “Nursted Barns is special because it was a very modern large country garden at the time and was one of the first to gain any sort of recognition,” says Debbie. “Millwater, Hyde House, Norneywood and Blue Doors are all special in various ways, and where we were able to work on much larger canvases of over 10 acres or, in the case of Blue Doors, within an exceptional landscape. “All won industry awards, with Millwater also gaining Best Garden at the 2014 Society of Garden Designers Awards. However, we think the garden at Brightling Down must be our all-time favourite, and one that we return to year after year. “Now 20 years old, it was featured in the most recent series finale of Gardeners’ World with Ian and Joe Swift working their way up through the water garden and culminating on the deck overlooking the Japanese pond.” How do you both collaborate on projects? Is there a specific process you follow? “We both attend initial client meetings and site analysis visits, and then one of us would take on the role of lead designer,” she states. “The process is always survey, analysis, design, where form follows function. This means that you’re never working on a blank canvas – every site has potentials and constraints which are noted and assessed, and all clients are different, so when working through the process, you arrive at the most appropriate design for each particular project. “We never impose our ideas onto a client or a site, but rather aim to meld our client’s tastes and requirements into a design which evolves up from the site.” What are some challenges you’ve faced in your work, and how have you overcome them? “Working alongside other professionals like Architects can sometimes be challenging, especially when a new house design hasn’t taken due consideration of site levels, access and existing features, and when you are also working to other professional’s deadlines. “Also, working with general builders to install gardens can mean that some of the finer detailing is not as we would like, and soil health and plantings are not regarded, so we always try to work only on projects where specialist landscape contractors are engaged to build and plant the garden.” As you reflect on the journey of Acres Wild since 1988, what are you most proud of? “Being able to make a living out of what was a virtually unknown area of design for a whole lifetime career,” Debbie shares. Looking ahead, what’s next for you and Acres Wild? “We’re slowly reducing the time spent on creating new gardens to focus more on evolving the gardens we’ve already created, and spending more time in our own garden, which we created during the pandemic,” she explains. “We’d also like to spend more time visiting gardens, writing about and photographing gardens, especially those in Japan where we spent the autumn of 2011 – it’s been a long overdue return trip!”
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Tracy Foster On Her Approach To Garden Design: 'The More Lush And Green The Better'
Tracy Foster, a Chelsea Gold Medal winning Garden Designer, brings over 20 years of experience to the art of transforming outdoor spaces, with a further 10 years of project management experience. Based in our hometown of Leeds – Tracy’s work ranges from contemporary designs to wildlife havens, reflecting her belief that every garden should mirror its owner’s personality and lifestyle. Beyond design, Tracy also works as a botanical tour guide, speaker and mentor – and has accumulated numerous accolades over the years, including several RHS Gold Medal Awards and a People’s Choice Award, attesting to her skill and creativity in garden design. Please note that the imagery used in this article has been provided with permission by Tracy Foster. Can you share your journey and what inspired you to pursue a career in garden design? “My earliest garden memories include things like collecting caterpillars and keeping them as pets, or watching a whole family of hedgehogs cross our lawn,” Tracy shares. “I must have been 4 or 5 years old at the time and I just loved being outdoors, getting dirty and looking for wildlife. Like many kids, I was allotted a tiny patch of ground to cultivate which was nowhere near enough for me, so I bossily took over more and more of the garden until by the age of about 15, I was looking after all of it. “By the time I left school, I was certain that I wanted to do something connected with plants, but I don’t think I’d even heard of Garden Design as a career. I chose to study Plant Biology at the University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, graduating in the 1980s and emerging into a world of high unemployment – so I gratefully took a job as a trainee computer programmer and spent the next 17 years working in IT. “A bit of a wrong turn perhaps, but I learnt useful skills in management and found out about all sorts of software along the way, whilst always gardening in my spare time. “When I had the opportunity to take voluntary redundancy, I was out of the door faster than you can say ‘Garden Designer’ and I began studying for a Diploma in Garden Design, volunteering in a nearby historic garden and setting up my business straight away.” With over 20 years of experience in garden design, what do you consider your most significant achievement? “The first one that springs to mind is the Hedgehog Street project, as I was so delighted to be chosen to build a show garden at the 2014 RHS Hampton Court Show to highlight the plight of hedgehogs and demonstrate ways gardeners can help,” she explains. “I went on to win a gold medal and the People’s Choice award. I was then asked to design and create another two gardens for Hedgehog Street, one of which is at RHS Harlow Carr Gardens. “It felt very significant because the brief was that it had to show how to be wildlife friendly in a garden, no matter what its style, so it helped to shake off the idea that only messy, neglected-looking gardens would do.” You’ve received several RHS gold medals and the coveted People’s choice award for one of your Chelsea gardens. What do these accolades mean to you and how do they shape your future projects? “It is wonderful to win an RHS medal or to be awarded Best Small Garden or Peoples’ Choice at any of the shows, but the best bit by far is the chance to meet and work with the great melting pot of knowledgeable and creative people who are on-site creating exhibits. “I am friends with lots of designers, landscapers and artists that I’ve met over the years when doing show gardens, and I’ve gone on to work with many of them on other projects. That is a priceless learning experience, and collaborations always spark a succession of new ideas. “The wide range of sponsors and unusual themes for show gardens have brought the most fabulous opportunities to meet specialists who I would never otherwise have come across.” you also work as a botanical tour guide, speaker, tutor, mentor, and garden writer. How do you manage to juggle these diverse roles, and how do they complement each other? “The work I do is a pretty diverse mix, and I certainly have to manage my time carefully,” she shares. “Having said that, I have frequently taken on too much and ended up working very long hours. My firm belief is that I want to live the most exciting and fulfilling life possible, which can mean choosing the most interesting work over the most profitable. “As I work for myself, I am free to split my time between different roles and I can be selective about what projects I will accept. Somehow the different aspects of work do fit together, research for speaking and teaching always comes in handy when doing some creative design work, and being a botanical guide has brought a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.” From contemporary outdoor rooms to wildlife havens, you’ve designed a variety of garden styles. Do you have a personal favourite style or theme? “I love gardens that are really full of plants, especially when that includes plenty of textures, interesting foliage and as little hard landscaping as possible,” she says. “The more lush and green the better. I do like an arts and crafts garden for those carefully crafted details and repurposed objects, but part of the fun of designing is the creation of something new and different for each client. “I make sure all the gardens I design are wildlife-friendly and as sustainable as possible. I hate waste and love to re-use anything I can on each job. That can also keep the costs down and means less material is being transported to and from the garden. “When I am creating gardens, I am acutely aware that it is all too easy to have a negative effect on the environment – look at all the horrible impenetrable fencing and toxic fake grass that has been inflicted on gardens by Garden Designers in the past. I think we have a responsibility to make sure we have a positive effect.” What common challenges do gardeners face, and how would you advise them to overcome these challenges? “For anyone new to gardening, the big challenges are a lack of confidence and feeling overwhelmed by the task of making the garden they want,” she explains. “My advice would be to measure your garden and draw up a design because it will enable you to see exactly what you’re trying to achieve and you can work slowly, doing a little at a time with the knowledge that it is all moving towards your planned dream garden. “There are loads of books about garden design, and some jolly useful websites too, and many people are more than capable of putting pencil to paper and creating a plan. “For others, if it seems too daunting, I would suggest booking a consultation with a Garden Designer to talk about what’s possible and how to achieve it. I do a lot of this sort of work and really enjoy watching people discover their creativity. “Many go on to make really special gardens on their own, whilst others choose to have designs drawn up for them.” What’s your favourite thing about your job? “I love the freedom and the variety. One day, I might be mentoring a team of school children as they make model gardens, I could be outside planting 1,000 bulbs the next, drawing up ideas for a brand new project for the following few days or taking photographs of a completed garden. “I’ve worked on all kinds of projects, and once I even helped to build a show garden on board a cruise ship as it sailed around the Atlantic Isles. “When I tell people what I do they always say ‘that must be a really nice job’ and I have to try really hard not to look too pleased with myself!” Are there any upcoming projects you’re particularly excited about? “I have two gardens that are about to be built,” shares Tracy. “One is a tiny suburban plot and the other is an expansive country garden and I must say, I’m really looking forward to seeing them both take shape. I’m also at the bid stage on a couple of other really exciting projects, but I can’t tell you anything about them as I’m sworn to secrecy!”
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