CAPTURING SPIRIT OF TIME AND PLACE
Show-stoppers
Tired of ever-changing trends for materials and features, some designers look more at the spirit of a space, seeking to capture the essence of a region or a place. Dan Pearson won Best in Show last year with his ultra naturalistic take on the feel of the Chatsworth estate.
Telegraph Garden
This Best in Show and Gold medalwinner has a unique visual appeal. It focuses on the giant geological events that have shaped the world and is an interesting play on scale and time. Jurassic-like bronze sculptures in jagged mountain stegosaurus-like shapes give a playful feel to the clean architectural forms and strong geometry six-time RHS gold medallist Andy Sturgeon is known for.
L’Occitane Garden
L’Occitane commissioned James Basson to create its second Chelsea show garden to mark its 40th anniversary. His gardens are breathtaking yet ‘un-showy’ in feel and seem they have always been there. This flawless Gold medal winner is the perfect example of how subtlety is sometimes the most powerful design tool.
M&G Garden
Eight-time Gold medalist Cleve West’s powerful evocation of a woodland in the Exmoor of his youth won him another Gold medal. His signature planting is almost unreal in its perfection and always incredibly sensual. This garden goes beyond simply painting a landscape and has the power to transport the viewer to a magical space.