Interviews
SGD Award-Winner Gavin McWilliam Reflects on His Most Memorable Garden Designs
Gavin McWilliam is the owner of McWilliam Studio, a Garden Design Studio which has accumulated more than 30 awards for their work in the UK and abroad. His most recent accolades with his studio include Best International Garden from The Society of Garden Designer Awards in 2022 (for his work on a garden in Portugal over the pandemic) and a Best In Show award from the APLD. I spoke with Gavin about the reasons behind a career change from graphic design to horticulture, his most memorable projects and where he thinks the industry is heading in the next few years. Please note that all imagery in this article has been provided with permission by Gavin McWilliam. Where Did Your Interest In Garden Design Come From? “It started with an interest in gardens,” starts Gavin. “I loved being outside from a very early age and used to help my dad in the garden. I’d go down to the greenhouse and propagate things and look after the garden whilst he was away. I think that quite literally sowed the interest in gardens. “I then went away and did a degree in Graphic Design, but in my mid-twenties, my father died, so I re-evaluated where I was happiest and that was in the garden. I did a complete career change and subsequently went into garden design.” What Inspired You To Start Your Own Studio? “I wanted to design things and be involved in the environments I was creating,” he shares. “I actually bought a van and went around building smaller gardens. At the same time, I was working with Andrew Wilson and was doing detailed design work with him. “We then merged and created a company together, which we had for 10 years. I took that over recently. Andrew now focuses on the teaching side of horticulture, but we do still work together.” How Do You Approach The Design Process At McWilliam Studio? “We’ve refined it into a process that works really well for us and our clients in terms of being quite linear. “What we’d normally do is show clients the work that we do and see if we are compatible. If we are, we then would request a really detailed brief so we have a clear idea of what they want for their garden and landscape, and then we’d do a concept design. “A concept design is collaborative and we rarely go back to the client with just one design – usually preparing two or three solutions to their brief. We’d normally do a design statement and a master plan, which doesn’t look at details at this stage and is instead an exploration of the garden on a wider scale. “We produce hand-drawn visuals that we present with any information we give so they can see what it would look like. It’s all about testing what could be achieved in that space. We then talk about the next steps and go from there.” What Are Some Of The Most Memorable Projects You’ve Worked On And Why? “There are three that I want to share, all of which are quite recent,” Gavin says. “The first of which is from Chelsea of this year. We created a garden all about bereavement, and because that was how I started my career in horticulture almost 25 years ago, it was a personal garden for me. “It was a beautiful space with different sections for reflecting. It was incredibly rewarding because of the feedback we got from the visitors and those watching on the TV. It didn’t get Gold, but it was priceless because of its meaning to us. “Both of the other memorable projects were produced during the pandemic, which is why they stand out. “One was in China and was memorable because it was the first garden that I’ve done completely remotely. I’ve never stood on this garden, despite the fact I have designed it. “It had a really great public response and was a reminder of the work I could do even in those times and it made the most of what was around them, such as tech, which we were able to utilise. “The final garden was in Portugal during the pandemic and was memorable because of the approach we took to the landscape. We lifted the lawn and put in a more Portuguese backdrop. “It was a dry river that ran through the garden and was on a really steep hill. It was quite a big build project and was all done remotely, but I would fly out occasionally and then have to come back and quarantine!” What Challenges Have You Faced In Your Career And How Did You Overcome Them? “Recruitment is a big one,” says Gavin. “I think there’s a skill shortage at the knowledgeable level that we need people at. I think we constantly face a battle to recruit, but also within garden design, people quite often set up for themselves, so it’s difficult to get people in. “We’ve got good retention at my studio, but we would like to recruit more. Everyone in the industry is looking for the same type of people, so that’s hard too! “Giving people the value for landscape is also really hard, and the less people value what is outside, it’s very difficult to get people to spend money on it and to put a value to nature. A lot of people see a garden as something you can just buy off the shelf.” What’s The Most Rewarding Aspect Of Your Work? “When we achieve that connection with the client and get to do our work successfully, that’s the reward. It’s all about taking something that isn’t functional or is neglected and turning it into a space that people and nature can enjoy together. “We recently got to work on a local school garden. The garden was neglected but is now full of plants for nature and the kids love it. “When we get feedback about how clients now use their space, that is the most rewarding aspect.” What Is The Biggest Lesson Horticulture Has Taught You? “That you’re not in control and you can’t control nature,” Gavin shares. “Things aren’t perfect and they will go wrong. A lot is out of your hands and you can do things with the best intentions and they still might not work, as things change seasonally. I think that’s a good lesson. “It also teaches you about the resilience of nature and the cycle of life. I seem to know less every year, as there is always something to learn!” How Do You See The Industry Evolving In The Next Few Years? “I think we need to encourage more people into the industry at a horticultural level,” he states. “I am concerned that we are going to see a reduced supply and availability in plants if we have less people looking after them. However, to be optimistic, I think it’s important to see more plants being grown in the UK than importing, and we are starting to see that, which is really exciting. “I see problems though, unless we address the skill shortage. That might be a government thing that needs addressing. The demand is still there, but we need people to keep up with the supply.” What’s Next For You And The Studio? “A holiday!” jokes Gavin. “For the studio, we’ve moved into a new office, so it’s been a very busy 6 months and we have lots of big projects coming through. We’ve stepped away from shows and want to focus more on our portfolio. “We want to grow the studio slightly and get a couple more people in, but we also want to get current employees back into the office too, so we can all work together and bring back that creative collaboration.” What Advice Would You Give To Young Professionals Looking To Make Their Mark In The Design Or Architecture Industry? “I wouldn’t worry about making your mark, let that happen over time,” he advises. “Reach out to existing professionals. It’s a very giving community of people who will typically give you a positive response if you reach out and ask them questions. “Look at the design courses too…there are lots out there and you can use it to build out your network. That shared knowledge is really important. “I’d recommend taking part in shows as it gives you an opportunity to expand your creativity, do things that you can’t do on a day-to-day basis and push your portfolio to a wider audience.”
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Gardening Author Clare Foster On Her Writing Process And Upcoming Projects
Clare Foster is a Writer and Editor in the gardening industry who has published several books including ‘The Flower Garden’ and ‘Compost’ – which was met with praise from the late Beth Chatto. Having been a Garden Writer for over 25 years, Clare is currently the Garden Editor at House & Gardens, having previously worked in the same position at Gardens Illustrated. I spoke to Clare about the origins of her passion for gardening, how her writing is influenced by her gardening and what she envisions for the future of the industry. Please note that all imagery in this article has been provided with permission courtesy of Eva Nemeth. Where Did Your Interest In Plants And Gardening Begin? “My parents always gardened, but I never showed much interest in it when I was a child,” shares Clare. “When I was in my late 20s, I got a job at Gardens Illustrated as a Sub Editor. I had no horticultural or journalistic experience , so I was really thrown in at the deep end and found that I loved it. My Editor, Rosie Atkins, was very supportive and could obviously see that I was interested in gardening and encouraged me to get an allotment. As soon as I started growing things, I was completely hooked!” Can You Tell Us A Little About Your Career In Garden Writing So Far? “I was at Gardens Illustrated for about 8 years in total, working my way up from Sub-Editor to Editor by the time I left in 2005,” she explains. “I was absorbing horticultural knowledge the whole time by reading articles, talking to gardeners and designers, and gardening myself. Towards the end of my time at Gardens Illustrated, I had a baby – and then another one in quick succession! “I thought I could do it all, but I found working full-time as Editor and having tiny babies too much to handle. When the part-time, freelance Garden Editor job at House & Garden came up just before the end of my second maternity leave, I thought it was too good to be true. “I was able to continue working as a Garden Writer and Journalist three days a week and still be there for my children. 18 years later, I am still at House & Garden!” How Has Your Love Of Gardening And Writing Complemented One Another? “I feel so lucky that I can combine gardening and writing in my career. I love both equally, and they really complement each other so well. Gardening is a physical, practical pursuit, while writing is mindful and sedentary. “Strangely, I write best when I go backwards and forwards to it, so I will quite often punctuate a writing session at my desk with an hour or two out in the garden. It makes me return to the task refreshed. I garden better in short bursts too.” You’ve Written Several Garden Books. Can You Tell Us About The Process Of Writing Them? “I have written five or six books, including The Flower Garden,” says Clare. “I enjoyed the process of writing that book enormously, as it was a collaboration with the photographer Sabina Ruber. We both trialled as many flowers from seed as we could and compared notes. “Our book is the result of those trials. It is not an exhaustive encyclopedia of flowers that you can grow from seed but is our choice of the easiest and most worthwhile flowers to grow from seed.” What Is The Most Rewarding Aspect Of Being A Garden Writer? “Being able to carry on learning ad infinitum.” Over Your Nearly 20-Year Career, What Have Been Some Of The Most Memorable Moments? “There are so many memorable moments!” Clare shares. “I will never forget photographing Piet Oudolf’s garden on a very rainy November day with the photographer Andrew Montgomery. It was very hard but we got some amazing photographs of all the seed heads and grasses appearing almost luminescent in the rain. “I also remember going round to visit Lord Snowdon to personally pick up a set of photographs that he had taken for Gardens Illustrated. “Another memorable time was when Gardens Illustrated sponsored a Chelsea Garden designed by Piet Oudolf and Arne Maynard – it won Gold and Best In Show and I remember their faces when we received the news. “Having said that, I think the pinnacle of my garden career had to be when Beth Chatto included my Compost book in her top 10 garden books!” Are There Any Upcoming Books Or Projects That You Are Currently Working On? “I am working on a couple of new books; one for the hotel and estate Borgo Santo Pietro, and the other is another self-published book with photographer Andrew Montgomery, called ‘Pastoral Gardens’.” How Do You Envision The Future Of Gardening And What Role Do You See Yourself Playing In It? “The future of the planet and gardening is uncertain, and we have to adapt our gardening techniques and styles accordingly,” Clare states. “The best we can do is be flexible in our attitudes, be open to different plants, ideas and aesthetics. “I have been working on an ongoing series of interviews called Climate Crusaders in House & Garden. I have talked to the most fascinating people about how they are spearheading ways to counter climate change, from no-dig gardening to agro-forestry. “I hope to be able to draw public attention to these amazing people who are valiantly fighting climate change in their own small ways – and hope that by raising awareness more people will follow suit.”
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Dan Bristow On His Gradual Transition From Fine Art To Garden Design
Growing up in a horticultural family, it’s little surprise that Dan Bristow wound up working in the field as an award-winning Garden Designer. Dan’s design work has taken him around the world and in this guide, we discuss his early inspirations in the field, the difference between designing in the UK and abroad, and how he envisions the future of the industry. Imagery in this article has been provided with permission by Luca Anzalone, Rick Pushinsky, Oskar Proctor, and Amy and Omid Photography. What Inspired You To Transition From Fine Art & Graphic Design To Garden Design? “Happenstance,” Dan simply states. “My parents were both plant people and had taught me all the wildflowers and native trees when I was a child, but I had felt that garden design was too complex a discipline to consider. Image by Luca Anzalone “It seemed to me like trying to be an architect using organic building blocks or a painter with a constantly shifting canvas. “I took a job as a maintenance gardener while I was in graphic design to get outside and experience the soil and seasons and slowly the two worlds of horticulture and design merged.” Were There Any Specific Gardens Or Designers That Inspired You When You Were Just Starting Out? “Actually, no! I was initially quite concerned about the desire to emulate others, preferring to have an outsider’s take. “I had a tutor when studying graphic design who recommended that we never read graphic design magazines, instead engaging in something unrelated like Embroidery Monthly or the Mathematical Gazette – advice which has clearly stuck with me. “That approach certainly made for plenty of trial and error early on and I’ve become interested in other designers and gardens in recent years, but am still intrigued by the ideas of those outside of horticulture and try to keep that fresh, first principles viewpoint.” Can You Describe The Philosophy Behind ‘Propagating Dan’ And How It Sets You Apart From Other Garden Designers? “The aim of our landscapes is to heighten the experience of living, working and playing outdoors,” he shares. “Each project must, of course, engage with the architecture and its surrounding context – whether by complementing or consciously contrasting with it, it really comes down to what kind of space we are creating with and for the client. “Our principles are earth-conscious by nature, so we feel that the landscapes themselves don’t need to overtly project this ethos and are aesthetically freer as a result. Image by Rick Pushinsky “We don’t impose a preconceived style on our projects, and we don’t shy away from incorporating elements that aren’t part of current design orthodoxy – and so it really is true, with us, that each garden we design is very different from the others. “I suppose my deep love of using extensive, well-researched and more unusual plant palettes perhaps overarches. We try to take a bold, irreverent and playful approach, married with a grounded, long-term focus. “I feel like a combination of levity and craftsmanship is what makes our gardens different from other designers and I hope that this commitment to doing things slightly outside of design orthodoxy will stay with us always!” You’ve Designed Gardens Both In The UK And internationally. Are There Any Specific Challenges Or Considerations When Designing For Different Climates? “Absolutely!” says Dan. “It’s really exciting to design for a different climate or new architectural vernacular, as it opens up a whole new palette. We try to tap into local knowledge, and definitely don’t go in thinking we have all the answers. Image by Oskar Proctor “There are often very good reasons that determine the particular use of materials and plants in an environment, so we tread carefully. “It’s more about applying techniques to create an atmosphere by utilising the range of plants available, and maybe bringing in a new landscaping idea but using local materials to do it. It’s not about imposition or reinventing the wheel.” What Is One Piece Of Gardening Advice You Wish You Could Give To Your Younger Self? “Don’t try reinvigorating a large pampas grass using the just-set-fire-to-it method in the middle of a heatwave…” How Do You Envision The Future Of Garden Design, Especially In The Context Of Climate Change And Sustainability? “I think that our addiction to imported plants from the continent will have to stop, and UK-grown plants will come to the forefront again,” he hopes. “The same goes for imported stone. We are doing a project in Aberdeenshire and I was dismayed to find that there are now no quarries in Scotland producing granite for anything other than aggregate, despite the city of Aberdeen famously being built of it. Image by Luca Anzalone “There are still local quarries around that have a wealth of knowledge about their material, we should be supporting them. “I am a passionate believer in responsible, long-term focused design. I’d like to think that our gardens could, and should, mature for decades if not centuries. I don’t like the idea that gardens succumb to trends and are replaced, wholesale, every decade or two.” What’s The Most Rewarding Aspect Of Your Work And What Keeps You Passionate About Garden Design? “The combination of creativity, nature and the constraint of the built environment is continuously fascinating to me. There are myriad possibilities which I now just see as opportunities – unlike my younger self! “Another gratifying element is the tiny part we have to play in ‘greening’ cities, breaking up one concrete slab at a time to create living and breathing oases.” What’s Next For ‘Propagating Dan’? “I’ll be off to Crete soon to do the setting out of the plants on a project there, which I’m really excited about,” Dan shares. Image by Luca Anzalone “We have also just started work on a 2,000 square metre roof garden in the middle of St. Austell, Cornwall.”
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Lucy Hart And A Decade Of Growth At The Historic Fulham Palace Garden
In the heart of the historic Fulham Palace Garden, Lucy Hart has been the guiding hand behind a decade of growth, focusing on sustainability and accessibility throughout her 11-year stint as Head Gardener. Beginning her gardening journey at just 13, Lucy developed a profound love for plants, a passion that has only deepened over the years. I chatted with Lucy about her early experience at Kew Gardens, the challenges of gardening with climate change and her future plans at Fulham Palace Garden. Imagery in this article has been provided by Marcus Dawes and Linval Bartley. Can You Share Your Earliest Gardening Memory And How It Influenced Your Passion For Plants? “I got into horticulture purely by chance, as I worked at the local nursery near where I lived on Saturdays because I needed some money when I was just 13,” Lucy explains. “I worked there and realised how much I loved working with plants. They had a little retail section, but I worked with the plants, deadheading and potting them up. I then went straight to horticultural college at 16 and did a National Diploma in Plant Production. Image by Marcus Dawes “I worked at some specialist nurseries during a year out there and still to this day refer back to the experiences I had during this time. After that, I went to Chelmsford and did a degree in Horticulture and began to work in other areas of the industry, before refocussing on plant-based jobs. “I did some work experience at Beth Chatto and Great Dixter, before [starting my] diploma at Kew, which led me to more botanical work. I worked there for 8 years and I then moved to my current role at Fulham Palace, where I have been for 11 years.” Can You Tell Us More About Your Role As The Head Gardener At Fulham Palace? “I am responsible for the 13-acre garden. We are a historic house and garden open 7 days a week free of charge, and we are an independent charity. “There are 6 of us who make up the gardening teams and also 65 active volunteers who come in and help to garden every week. We also have beekeepers and greenkeepers. It’s a huge team effort and a lot of fun! “There are so many different aspects of horticulture that people can work in and probably don’t realise. At Fulham Palace, we are running a ‘get into gardening’ scheme that is [designed] for younger people from disadvantaged backgrounds – to help them get into gardening and see the benefits of it.” How Do You Approach The Challenge Of Balancing The Conservation Of Historical Aspects Of The Garden With The Need For Modernisation And Sustainability? “Bishop Compton, who lived at Fulham Palace in the late 1600s and early 1700s, had a real interest in growing plants,” she explains. “He used his missionaries to send plant materials from the countries they visited which he would then grow and cultivate on site. Image by Linval Bartley “There’s been a site here since 703, but there was also Roman activity here prior to that. When you’re gardening on a scheduled monument, which we are, that’s really tricky, because there are lots of rules about what you can and can’t do to protect the archaeology. “It is all part of a wonderful story, so we take advantage of that by growing the plants that were previously grown at the gardens, which we have been able to cultivate. “In terms of biodiversity, it’s all about educating the public through the changes we make.” What Is Your Favourite Thing About Your Job? “We have a walled garden where we grow vegetables and then sell them, which is a critical part of our income,” explains Lucy. “Making income from horticulture and growing things for people to buy is a wonderful thing which we get a lot out of. Image by Marcus Dawes “Working closely with volunteers is great too. There are a lot of people who just want to give and help out, so it’s really nice to be out there gardening with them. ““I also love working at Fulham Palace because we are constantly striving to improve our site through restoration and new projects. “We are broaching important subjects such as colonialism and transatlantic slavery within our museum and our botanical collections and we encourage wildlife and biodiversity throughout the garden as well as making it productive and beautiful.” Can You Share Some Of The Challenges You Faced When You Started As The Head Gardener At Fulham Palace & How You Overcame Them? “Everyone is probably feeling it, but the financial challenges post-pandemic and the current economic crisis are difficult to manage, in addition to the fact we have a low budget. “I do love the fact that anything we do, everyone chips in to help if they can. For example, we make a lot of lavender bags, so I’ll ask for materials from the community and be met with lots of helpful hands.” What Are Your Future Plans For The Fulham Palace Garden & How Do You See It Evolving In The Next Few Years? “We’re really committed to getting other people involved in gardening, as I mentioned before,” she shares. “I think we are all just starting to realise that horticulture is so good for our wellbeing. I’ve never had so many applications for our most recent intake of apprentices, which is great. Image by Marcus Dawes “We are going to be looking at changing one of the areas in our glasshouse so we can have an indoor space for gardening activities. Also, a lot of the future work will just involve adapting to the changing climate. “For example, a lot of trees in our orchard are suffering at the moment. In a historic garden, you want to grow a lot of heritage stuff, but I’ve noticed it is not thriving, so we need to balance that a little more.” Do You Have Any Advice For Those Thinking Of Giving A Career In Horticulture A Go? “It’s all I’ve ever done and I’m still learning so much, even after 33 years!” Lucy says. “I’d say to those thinking of opting for a career in horticulture that you are never going to get bored and I can’t recommend it enough because of that. “I feel privileged to have found horticulture as a career and am very happy to be where I am now.”
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Dr. Gemma Jerome Reveals How Gardeners Can Do More With Their Outdoor Space
Gemma Jerome is the Director of Building with Nature, a benchmarking initiative that aims to put nature at the heart of development, focusing on the benefits it can bring to both people and wildlife. Her commitment to the environment and sustainable development is reflected in her efforts to mainstream green infrastructure in the UK. I spoke to Gemma about Building with Nature as well as about more ways that people can incorporate nature into their daily lives. All imagery in this interview has been provided courtesy of Britt Willoughby Dyer and Gemma Jerome. How Did You Start Your Career In The Environmental & Horticultural Industry? “I started my career in the environmental sector volunteering for local charities and social enterprises,” shares Gemma. “There are great networks that offer practical environmental skills opportunities such as Groundwork, TCV and The Wildlife Trusts. I started volunteering for community gardens in my local area and followed up my interests by applying for courses, such as permaculture design and forest school. “Most of my knowledge has come from working in gardens, by trial and error, and alongside more experienced gardeners. For example, I shared an allotment for a while with a friend who was RHS-qualified. This was a real complement to my more community-scale, DIY-style of gardening. “I also returned to higher education in my early twenties to pursue a career in environmental planning, becoming inspired by the opportunities to work at a city scale to positively respond to the climate and nature emergencies. “I focused my research on the vital role that community gardens have in providing a network of nature-rich spaces across urban areas that provide people with access to land and fresh food, opportunities to create meaningful connections with other like-minded people in their local area, and support people’s wellbeing.” Can You Explain A Little About The Building With Nature Initiative? “Building with Nature, the UK’s first green infrastructure benchmark, provides housebuilders, developers, planners and policy-makers with an evidence-based definition of high-quality green and blue infrastructure and how to deliver it. “Green infrastructure is a network of multi-functional green spaces and other green features, urban and rural, which can deliver quality of life and environmental benefits. “Green infrastructure is not simply an alternative description for conventional open space. Whilst it includes parks, open spaces, and playing fields, it also includes woodlands, allotments, private gardens, green roofs and walls, sustainable drainage systems and soils. “Plus, it includes rivers, streams, canals and other water bodies, sometimes called blue infrastructure. “The BwN approach is underpinned by a set of holistic, quality standards that are being used to guide the design and delivery of development projects, large and small, across the UK. “Through focussing on the themes of wellbeing, water and wildlife, as well as the core elements of good green and blue infrastructure, Building with Nature offers practical, how-to guidance to help people create great places for people and wildlife.” How Can Individuals Save Water In Their Outdoor Spaces? “In a time when we can expect more unpredictable weather patterns and extreme heat, it is going to become incredibly important that we all find new ways to collect precious rainwater and reduce demand on groundwater too,” says Gemma. Image by Britt Willoughby Dyer “Most gardeners can find creative ways for rainwater harvesting. Reducing the impact of drought is also about saving water by planting smart. “Beth Chatto’s motto lives on, and sustainable gardening, planting the right plant in the right place, is more important than ever in a time of a changing climate. Gardens will have to cope with extreme heat, and periods of both flooding and drought.” How Important Are Community Gardens To Society? “In my experience, community gardens are one of the least expensive and highest impact ways to bring people together for meaningful community and nature connections,” she explains. “Access to community gardens has been shown to underpin a community’s social capital and lead to long-lasting community connections. This can help to reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. This sense of connection and belonging can be especially important for vulnerable and marginalised groups.” What Are Some Of The Small Changes People Can Make To Incorporate Nature Into Their Daily Lives? “Make time for walking in nature and getting outside,” Gemma recommends. “Even if you go on the same walk every day, try to be mindful of what you can see and hear at different times of year. Slow down, look around, listen, take notice, and enjoy what you find. Image by Britt Willoughby Dyer “I recommend choosing a favourite tree or sitting spot and visit it as often as you can. These kinds of rituals and rhythms can add a lot to your sense of belonging to a place. “Nature has so many stories to tell, and we can be part of these stories just by stepping in and making time to notice. See how it enriches your experiences of living in your neighbourhood just by taking these simple steps.” What’s Next For You? “The next big thing in planning and development is a new piece of legislation which has been introduced to reverse the catastrophic decline in biodiversity we have seen over the past decades,” shares Gemma. “Biodiversity net gain will apply to all major developments in England from November 2023 and will aim to ensure we leave the land in a better condition than before development, ensuring the amount and quality of space for wildlife is at least 10% better. “Scotland and Wales also have new strong approaches to ensure we can respond positively to the climate and nature emergencies, by making more space for nature and biodiversity. “I’m also excited to tell your readers that I’m developing a CPD course with the Society of Garden Designers focused on helping their members understand how to include wildlife enhancements into their approach to gardening. “It’s vital that those who are responsible for stewardship and aftercare of gardens are knowledgeable in what new legislation requirements mean for them. “Horticulture and landscape professionals have vital knowledge and skills to share, and I believe they will play a critical role in securing a better future.” What Would You Say To Those Looking To Do More With Their Outdoor Spaces? “In my twenty years of gardening, I have found that the most abundant spaces I have helped to design, create and manage have come about slowly. “As gardeners, one of our most important skills is observation. More often than not, the unique environmental conditions, access to light and water at different times of year, minimum and maximum temperature (factoring in climate change), will indicate the best range of plants for a space. “I look for spaces to be as low maintenance as possible, as permaculture design teaches, aim for minimum input for maximum output. In other words, I aspire to be a lazy gardener! “If we look after the soil, and select the right plants for the right place, we are more likely to see our plants and gardens thrive without artificial input or hours of digging and weeding. “That way, we can spend more time enjoying the space and simply ‘being’ in nature.”
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Simon's Garden - Amanda Patton On Her Desire To Make The 2025 Chelsea Flower Show
Amanda Patton is a renowned figure in the Landscape and Garden Design industry, with a career that spans several decades, after founding Amanda Patton Landscape & Garden Design at the beginning of the 2000s. She is also a talented nature Photographer and was recently recognised when she was shortlisted for the Landscape Photographer of the Year in 2020. In this interview, Amanda speaks about her change in career from an Illustrator to a Designer and explains her desire to get to the Chelsea Flower Show in 2025 with a garden in memory of her late brother, Simon. Imagery in this article has been kindly provided with permission by Amanda Patton. What Are Your Earliest Memories Of Gardening? “My grandmother was a keen gardener, but she died when I was quite young, so I have vague memories of her garden,” shares Amanda. “My mother viewed gardening as housework outdoors, so I didn’t actually discover gardening until I was older, because I had this mindset that gardens were not interesting. “In my 20s, I went to see my friend’s garden as she had just moved house and it was just this mass of colour, texture and light. She was an artist and had done it herself. I had no idea that a garden could touch you emotionally like that and I just knew I had to try it. “I was definitely a latecomer to realising what gardens can and can’t be. This might have been different if my grandmother had lived longer, as I could have seen more of her garden.” Can You Tell Us About Your Journey From Being A Professional Illustrator To Founding Amanda Patton Landscape & Garden Design? “When I was a teenager, I thought I wanted to be a landscape photographer, which is still a major passion of mine, so I went to art college intending to do just that, but I quickly realised whilst I was there that I didn’t want to stop drawing or painting. “I then went into archaeological illustration for a while and found gardening in the 1980s. I began illustrating for gardening books and was then lucky enough to get the contract for Alan Titchmarsh’s Ground Force books. “This gave me a brilliant understanding of building things because you can’t draw something if you don’t understand how to build it. I’d get these sketches in from the team and I’d have to really think about the logic behind each one as I did them up. “At the end of the 1990s, I wanted something more creative than what I was just doing. My own garden was the first garden which I ever designed.” What Does Your Process For Designing Gardens Look Like? What Are You Inspired By? “It always comes back to nature,” she says simply. “The planting in my gardens always covers all four seasons, so in order to achieve that, I use a lot of grasses and offset that with something quite structural. I also love adding layers so your eyes don’t go straight to the back of the planting scheme.” What Does A Typical Working Day In The Life Look Like For You? “It varies quite a lot,” Amanda smiles. “The concept stage, which is where I try and make it work, is full of drawings. By hand-drawing, you create all of the concepts by connecting them from hand to brain, so at the early stages, I always hand sketch the plans out. “I sketch out shapes until I’m getting something that works. After, that all gets drawn up in CAD. I design everything including the paving, construction and planting designs. “I then might be out on-site observing a job whilst it is in person or meeting new clients. “I can honestly say that no two days are the same. Some weeks I have back-to-back meetings, others I have none! I usually run at least 10 projects at once and each is usually at a different stage.” You Have Created Show Gardens At RHS Chelsea And Hampton Court. Can You Share Some Highlights From These Experiences? “Having started on this journey with no specific gardening qualifications, I thought Chelsea would be a great way of getting some accreditation. And it was – it kickstarted my career in 2002. “In 2008, the Society of Garden Designers ran a competition to design a garden for Hampton Court called the Traveller’s Garden, which you could interpret in any way you wanted. “Everything I do is about how things make me feel, so I used this garden to explore these ideas. I created a garden that was quite disruptive, with bridges cutting off paths. “A lot of my design process is approached by what people will feel. It’s more than just creating a pretty place.” What’s Next For You? Do You Have Any Upcoming Projects That You’d Like To Share With Our Readers? “I’m trying very hard to get funding for a garden at Chelsea for a very personal project,” shares Amanda. “It has been submitted and the RHS would love to see it built. It concerns the Infected Blood Inquiry that was happening during the 1970s-80s. “So many people died from this, but it is still not talked about enough. One of who died was my brother – he was only 38 at the time. “I have designed Simon’s garden and as a concept, it shows the awfulness of that journey and the uncertainty of how it was going to play out when it all began. “What myself and The Haemophilia Society hope to do is tell this story through the garden. I’ve used three different states of water to express the emotion, as well as various other concepts and ideas that utilise light and dark. “For instance, the front of the garden features tiny white and yellow flowers that are the lights that will be put out to represent the people that died, and then as you go through, there is a lot of dark planting and very little green. Eventually, you come through to the transparency of the inquiry. “We are trying to get funding to build it at Chelsea in 2025 and then following that, we would then rebuild as a memorial garden, which we already have a location for. “I’ve been working very hard on that, but it’s difficult because it’s such a niche market and so close to home. This project would really open people’s eyes to the absolute tragedy of it.” Do You Have Any Advice For Those Thinking Of Giving Garden Design A Go? “Don’t be afraid to ask for work with another company or nursery and get the experience first,” Amanda advises. “It is a brilliant profession that I have been doing for nearly 24 years now. I love it even more than when I started because you’re doing something that really does make a difference in people’s lives while helping the environment and being creative.”
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Award-Winning Florist Simon Lycett Revisits His Astonishing Career In Floral Design
From the age of seven, Simon Lycett has been captivated by the world of flowers, a passion that blossomed into a flourishing career in Floral Design after he established Simon J Lycett Ltd in 1993. He quickly rose to prominence, becoming one of the UK’s most sought-after florists, providing arrangements for royal weddings and prestigious events, as well as smaller clients and venues. We delve into Simon’s favourite parts of his job, the interesting ways he keeps his designs fresh and innovative and his advice for budding florists. How Did Your Career In Floral Design Begin? “I went to an RHS-affiliated flower show at the age of 7 in Warwick, where I was born and raised, and the moment I walked into that space I just knew that I wanted to be amongst flowers,” shares Simon. “Ever since, I’ve always wanted to work with flowers. I went home after that visit and made my own tent in the garden with a sheet on the washing line and started to produce my own flower arrangements. “I didn’t really understand career advice at school because I assumed that everyone always knew what they wanted to do like I did, which was to work with flowers!” What Challenges Did You Face In The Early Days Of Your Career & How Did You Overcome Them? “One of the hardest things was in the late 1980s when there weren’t that many florists and it wasn’t considered the art form that it is now in the UK. “There were flower shops and you only really went into them to collect a bunch of flowers for a special occasion. There wasn’t really as much of an understanding then about the power of the flower. “I was really lucky and was able to get a job in London, which opened my eyes to the scale at which flowers could be bought. It opened up a whole new world for me.” You’ve Been In The Industry For Several Decades. How Do You Keep Your Designs Fresh And Innovative? “Raw materials change, which means that as the seasons change, everything is kind of reinvented for me,” he explains. “At this time of the year, I can create an arrangement with gorgeous dahlias and then challenge myself by seeing if I can do the same arrangement with different flowers. “I always try and reflect what is going on outside inside and try to use in-season flowers where possible.” You’ve Worked At Various Prestigious Venues Like Aynhoe Park, Royal Hospital Chelsea & Blenheim Palace. How Do Different Venues Present Unique Challenges Or Opportunities For Floral Design? “We are really lucky that we work in such varied spaces at my studio,” says Simon. “I always walk around a venue and interpret the client’s wishes and desires and how they want to feel, and then work out whether we are going to work with the venue and create something that sits beautifully in it or create something so varied and different that it will create a completely different effect. “I love doing both of those things equally because of the difference it can make to the space.” Are There Any Events Or Projects That You’re Particularly Proud Of? “I’m proud of all of them really and that’s the joy,” he says. “Every single client that comes through the door and each commission we get is new and exciting. “It’s a challenge but it is really exciting too because it is an ever-changing assortment of different things. It might be a small wedding, a huge profile event or a dinner party – we love all of them and enjoy getting to work with fellow creatives.” What Is Your Favourite Thing About Your Job? “I recognise that I am very fortunate that the client group I have doesn’t know the word no, which means that the possibilities are endless!” What’s Next For You? “I have one that I can’t talk about yet with the BBC which has been very exciting, so watch this space!” teases Simon. “Apart from that, I’m just really lucky that the phone is ringing and clients are asking me to commit to events that are happening in the future, which is exciting after coming out of the period of the pandemic.” What Advice Would You Give To Budding Florists Looking To Make A Mark In The Industry? “I really think that you shouldn’t worry too much about what other people are doing,” he advises. “It’s fascinating to look at what others are doing, but don’t copy it, do your own thing. See what other people are doing but don’t create something just because someone else has. “Just be you!”
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Tom Simpson: The First Garden Designer To Win All Four Awards At RHS Hampton Court
Tom Simpson is a renowned Garden Designer based in London who graduated from the London College of Garden Design and worked with leading designers before establishing his own successful practice. His remarkable career includes a historic win at the 2021 RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show, where he became the first designer to clinch all four top awards, including Best in Show and the People’s Choice Award. As we delve deeper into his career, we explore his background in gardening, the challenges of running a design studio and how he sees the future of the garden design industry. Please note that all imagery provided in this interview is courtesy of Rachel Warne and Joanna Kossak. What Initially Piqued Your Interest In Garden Design? “It’s something that I grew up with, as both of my parents, my mum especially, gardened,” shares Tom. “Whenever we went out, it would involve visiting a garden. Because of that, I’d always been interested in spending time in the landscapes. “As I grew up, I spent some time working for my friend’s parents, who were garden designers. They bought this property in Cornwall and were establishing a garden there, so I spent a few months helping them out by building bonfires, clearing ivy off walls and digging over flowerbeds. “That’s when I realised that garden design was a real career option – I loved it. Seeing what they did and how they put together their planting schemes really fascinated me. “I went away and then had a short career in the film industry and realised that wasn’t for me and that garden design was still an option. I’ve also always loved spending time outdoors, so I thought I’d give it a go. “I didn’t fully appreciate what garden design was at that point and it wasn’t until I went to college that I realised what it entailed.” Looking Back, Is There Any Advice You’d Give To Your Younger Self When You Were Just Beginning Your Journey In Garden Design? “I would have said to get more practical horticultural experience and training,” he muses. “I think that would have been beneficial to me, as so much of the learning is practical and an education can teach you what to do, but you really need to get out there and do it. Everything else I’ve learnt has been on the job. Image by Joanna Kossak “My advice would be to spend a year working in a garden and then do your course so you have that added understanding when you’re starting out.” In 2021, You Became The First Designer To Win All Four Awards At The RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show. How Did It Feel To Achieve Such A Remarkable Feat? “I’d previously done two show gardens there, but in 2019 I’d started a partnership with Cancer Research UK, so this was the second garden that I had designed for them. The idea was to build on the success of our first garden. “As things were starting to build back up again after the pandemic, the idea had been in my head for a long time, so winning all of the awards was a hugely gratifying thing to happen and I was particularly pleased for the charity and the added press coverage they got. “It was a great experience and I’m really proud of that project.” What Are Some Of The Biggest Challenges You’ve Faced In Your Career, And How Did You Overcome Them? “Facing big challenges all the time is just part of running your own business. There’s a big difference when working as a Garden Designer in a studio and running your own practice. Image by Rachel Warne “The challenges that I face are similar to that of other small business owners. I’ve only been in the industry for eight years and worked for myself for three, so I’m pretty new to the game. Fortunately, things are going well at the moment, as we are expanding and have lots of new projects on the go.” With The Changing Climate And Its Impact On Gardening And Landscaping, How Do You Foresee The Future Of Garden Design? “I think that good practice always says that you should use the right plant for the right place, and that applies more than ever now,” says Tom. “You have to plant with sustainability in mind now, otherwise things will not grow. We are looking to plants that are more adaptable to dry conditions but also plants that can cope with damper environments. Those that are best suited to two ends of the scale need to be considered more and more. “We have to look to resilient plants too. With these things is an opportunity to do something interesting with your design as well, so it’s all about looking at the plants and working out what will do best.” What Are Some Of The Upcoming Projects You’re Most Excited About? “We’ve got lots of fun stuff going on at the moment,” he shares. Image by Joanna Kossak “We are currently on site planting on a project just outside of Bath. It is a beautiful Victorian villa with lovely grounds that has a formal scheme. “We also recently worked on a pocket corner garden that had a minimalist feature wall and panels. We are hopefully taking images of that soon to share. We work on such a broad mix of projects, these two stand out at the moment!”
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Author Sonya Patel Ellis: 'I’m Plotting A New Potager-Style Patch In My Backyard'
Sonya Patel Ellis is an accomplished garden author of several books, including ‘Collins Botanical Bible’, ‘The Heritage Herbal’ and ‘The Modern Gardener’. Her works have been recognised and celebrated across the UK by other gardeners and writers. Beyond books, she has also penned articles for renowned publications like Gardens Illustrated and runs writing for wellbeing workshops for both children and adults. Sonya shares her love of herbs, her journey from publishing to writing as a freelancer and her experience of leaving her much-loved garden after a move. Imagery in this interview is provided with permission by Sonya Patel Ellis. What Are Your Earliest Memories Of Gardening? “I grew up in the village of Stanley, in the Rhubarb Triangle of Wakefield, where we had a small garden that wrapped around our house on the corner,” says Sonya. “Me, my siblings and friends from around the neighbourhood would spend hours bashing succulents into juice, pressing flowers from the garden, fields and brownfield building site at the top of the road, and helping our parents plant up our rockery and little beds. “Gardening was actively encouraged from childhood, plus we were relatively free to roam the surrounding countryside as children of the 1970s – thus a love of nature and plants was instilled from a young age. “After moving to a different house in the early 1980s, I was given my own little patch of garden and planted bulbs and other specimens pilfered from my mum’s beds, helped dad mow the lawn and developed a passion for creating miniature gardens for the local flower show. “I eventually left Wakefield for Art College in Liverpool, carrying my love of plants and flowers into creative and professional pursuits in design and writing.” From This, What Led You To Garden Writing? “I wanted to study Art and Writing at university, but the option wasn’t there at the time, so I opted for a Multimedia degree in Textiles and Fashion at Liverpool John Moore’s University,” she shares. “Printed and woven textiles have long been inspired by nature, so I was in my element researching artists and techniques that borrowed from the botanical world. “I eventually moved to London to pursue a career in lifestyle journalism and having dipped my toe into other forms of communication such as PR, Design Management, and Events, and a stint travelling around Asia, became a Features Editor of a suite of health and travel magazines. Image taken of The Hepworth Garden “I moved to Think Publishing in 2005, which specialised in nature and the environment, where I worked across books, magazines, websites, and with clients including the RHS, The Royal Parks, The Wildlife Trusts, Greenpeace, Butterfly Conservation, GreenSpace and the Ramblers Association. “I left to go freelance in 2006 and have aimed to keep the focus of my work on nature ever since, retaining a keen interest in both the written and visual quality of my output. “Over 17 years later, I have written, edited, and commissioned numerous books and articles. “Whether writing and editing features or books, teaching gardening, designing planting combinations or making nature-inspired art, finding an inspiring narrative is always foremost in my mind.” What Does A Typical Working Day Look Like For You? “I’m freelance so I generally work from home. If I’m working on a book, I could be writing a synopsis, flat planning, laying out chapters, or actually writing or editing content. “If I’m working on something for a magazine or newspaper, it might involve writing pitches, creating the framework for an article or producing copy and captions. “I’ve stayed relatively close to home while my kids were young, and the lockdown years were isolating for all concerned, so I’m enjoying getting out and about more, doing in the field or in-person research on-site in gardens or other botanical places of interest. “I particularly enjoyed writing an article about a garden designed by Miria Harris, which involved visiting the garden and interviewing both designer and client before creating copy that would also complement Rae Warne’s beautiful images. “I would normally also try and fit some actual gardening in, but had to leave my garden of 15 years when I moved in March. “Developing the local school garden into an inspiring outdoor learning zone has given me the space to continue trialling new plants and ideas and I now work there one day a week, teaching the children and their teachers and carers how to garden and think creatively. “I’m forever bringing in gardening books and magazines from my library and hopefully am inspiring a new generation of gardeners, writers, and artists within an education system that often doesn’t connect the dots.” You’re The Author Of Several Gardening Books. Do You Have A Particular Favourite & If So, Why? “The Heritage Herbal, published by British Library Publications in 2020, is my favourite authored book,” says Sonya. “I spent such a huge amount of time fully immersed in the history of herbals and herbs, then writing and testing recipes, remedies and creative projects with which to nourish, heal and style in modern times. “My kitchen is full of herbs, jars, oils, bases and various moulds and other equipment with which to prepare culinary, beautifying and home-styling preparations. “In fact, I’m currently just building an area for them all in my new kitchen after moving house in March. “I also created a herb garden in my old house relating to the 50 heritage herbs in the book including beautiful apothecary roses, sweet cicely, chervil and angelica. Some herbs I brought with, others have had to stay, but I’m now plotting a new potager-style patch in my new backyard that can also function as a herbal teaching and community garden. “Herbs are probably my biggest passion in the plant world as they all have a benefit and a backstory, often spanning thousands of years and many continents.” What Is Your Favourite Thing About Your Career? “I often joke that I write about plants because it allows me to write about absolutely everything!” she laughs. “In fact, this is absolutely true given that everything that we interact with in this world has some kind of connection to nature, whether that’s through raw materials, an effect on our senses, an inspiration, food, or more obvious translations such as gardening. “I love doing a deep dive on a subject such as a herb, type of gardening technique, person or place, looking closer at the story within and the minutiae in order to pan out again to the bigger picture and create perspective.” Sum Up Your Relationship With Gardening In Just 3 Words. “Nature, connection and wellbeing.” Do You Have Any Advice For Those Wanting To Get Into The Industry? “I would recommend getting some kind of training, whether that’s an RHS qualification such as Level 2 or Level 3 in Horticulture, a Garden Design Diploma or hands-on experience as a gardening apprentice,” recommends Sonya. “You then have authority in terms of knowledge and skills, options in terms of applying for jobs and will hopefully develop a network of good contacts as you learn. “From a publishing perspective, I’d say most authors these days are trained in some form or another or are very present on social media through engaging reels and video content. “If you want to write, then the best advice is start writing. This could be about your garden as a newsletter or Instagram feed, or more formally through an internship at a magazine, newspaper or book publisher. “Neither horticulture nor writing is as well paid as it should be, so in the meantime, the more opportunities you give yourself, the better! “It’s still worth it though and judging by the number of people segueing into horticulture from other higher-paid jobs, has a proven level of job satisfaction due to its associations with improved wellbeing and purposefulness. “I haven’t met anyone in this field who doesn’t love what they do.” What’s Next For You? “I’m just starting work on a new book about how to leave a garden,” she says. “This is based on my own recent experience of having to inadvertently leave my garden, having tended it for 15 years. I’m currently interviewing other people about their experiences or memories of leaving a cherished space and delving into issues around ownership, placemaking and impermanence. “I’m also pitching articles to magazines and newspapers and am particularly interested in gardens that weave herbs into their midst or are created by herbal practitioners, artists, or cultural gardeners – spaces of multi-sensory beauty and usefulness.” If you have any stories about your experiences of leaving a garden that you would like to share, you can get in touch with Sonya via her website.
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