Chelsea Flower Show 2017

Our second RHS Chelsea garden for Breast Cancer Now (formerly Breakthrough Breast Cancer), was designed as a space for a small team of research scientists to meet and discuss ideas.

Drawing inspiration from research laboratories, the garden featured a centrepiece of three parallel metal circles, representing the lenses of a microscope,  focusing on a graphic circular wall at the back of the garden depicting a slide of healthy blood cells.  The acrylic wall and surrounding blackboard were designed for scientists to write their ideas, while organic, cellular shaped seats provided a place for them to sit.

The concept of a microscope was further reflected in the planting scheme, moving from small plants at the front of the garden to larger ones at the rear using similar foliage to give the impression of magnification.  A central water feature represented a discarded slide of unhealthy cells and rectangular beds also mirrored the shape of microscopic slides. A modern planting composition was created with a palette of bright magenta pinks blended with coppery tones and accents of white.

The garden was awarded a Silver-Gilt medal and won the People’s Choice award in the Fresh Garden category.  After the show, the plants were sold to raise money for Breast Cancer Now.