Chelsea Flower Show – Garden #5

The M&G Garden – Andy Sturgeon (2012)

This garden is inspired by the Arts and Craft movement and its underlying ethos and principles where traditional craftsmanship was advocated. The key elements of the movement are all represented including architecture, furniture, jewellery, interior design and gardens.

The terracing and steps are formal and Italianate, the side pathway forms a striking vista and the two spaces are connected by a ‘floating’ oak bench.

Three monolithic walls take their inspiration from the repeated patterns of William Morris wallpaper. The circular apertures echo the domed and rounded umbels used in the planting and are lined internally with copper which comes alive when illuminated at night.

The copper ‘energy wave’ sculpture takes its cue from jewellery and was designed to provide a dramatic focal point as it weaves its way through the garden into borders and pathways and emerges in the rectangular pool, enlivening the garden without challenging its formality.

Wording adapted from http://www.andysturgeon.com

Another simply breathtaking garden from Mr Sturgeon. Well executed, great lines, beautiful planting and fantastic use of the space. The hard landscaping is exquisite.

Author: Mike the Gardener

Freelance gardening writer, consultant and designer. Mike Palmer is a passionate and professional plantsman, offering services in garden writing, consultancy and garden design. Mike is also available for garden and plant related talks and presentations. Mike has been a professional horticulturalist for over fifteen years. View all posts by Mike the Gardener