RHS People’s Choice Award

The backstory of this design, which has proved so popular with the public, is as inspirational as Pip Probert’s delightful planting combinations. The garden is a tribute to Doddie Weir, the iconic Scotland rugby international who worked tirelessly to support fellow sufferers of Motor Neurone Disease and fund research into this, as yet incurable disease. The blue and yellow colour scheme, which references Doddie’s tartan colours, is just one of the many touching tributes weaved through this relaxing, joyful garden.

Visititors to the show loved this practical, yet beautiful, family garden. Maximising plantable space with minimal disruption, it uses Corten steel to create ‘rooms’ for added height and interest without removing existing paving. Key plants include Amelanchier lamarckii, Stipa Tenuissima, Sanguisorba officinalis ‘Red Thunder’, Verbena bonariensis, and Trachelospermum jasminoides. 

Drawing on his past career as a police officer, Chris Reynold’s The Safe Space Garden, supported by Victim Support, offers a serene retreat for victims of crime. Featuring steel arches for reflection and wooden ‘privacy pillars’ for a secure yet connected experience, its calming, sensory-rich planting and water elements enhance feelings of comfort, reassurance and gentle nostalgia. The garden’s powerful message, delivered with subtle, graceful planting won over the hearts of the public.

Callum Corrie’s design shows how to create a useful, practical garden without compromising on the aesthetic value. One area features semi-circular bench seating around a fire pit, while another space offers a decked area for dining and entertaining, with the soothing sight and sound of water cascading into a wildlife pond. Packed full of take-home ideas and inspiration whcih can be adapted to any garden.