The Roots in Finland Kyrö Garden

In this urban garden the countryside of Finland, a nation of 188,000 lakes, is represented, melding rural landscape and contemporary design. The boundary fence has been reclaimed from an old barn, the tonal value of its weather-beaten planks picked up in the polished, bush-hammered and flamed granite paving, the benches and floor of the sunken garden – this a nod to traditional stonemasonry. A cascading water feature symbolises rivers and rapids as well as Finland’s cultural relationship with fresh water. 
 
The planting is multi-layered and rich in meadow plants. The national flower, lily of the valley, features alongside the rare mutation red birch and the slow-growing juniper – rich in scent and flavour and a significant ingredient in the serving of gin. Finnish growing conditions are demanding, characterized by the long days of summer and hard, winter darkness.

Thanks also to Embassy of Finland, London, Roslings Manor Gardens, Finnish-British Chmabers of Commerce, UPM WISA Plywood, Loimann Kivi Ltd, Taimisto Huutokoski Ltd, Ru Runeberg Artist, Creepers Nursery, Sursum Ltd, Kekkitā BVB, Tapio Anttila and Artek.