Chelsea Flower Show Design Journey

We were both honoured and delighted when Blue Forest approached us to design the garden for their stand at RHS Chelsea Flower Show this year. We have long championed their extraordinary treehouses, which continually push the boundaries of garden architecture. Their stands on Main Avenue are always a highlight of the show, and it is a true privilege to collaborate with them this year.

The concept for this year’s garden is simple yet purposeful: to create a peaceful retreat in the form of an elevated woodland sanctuary. A space where visitors will be able to pause, step away from the bustle of Chelsea Flower Show, and reconnect with nature, even if just for a few moments. This vision formed the foundation for the name of the stand: The Sanctuary.

We’re sharing the design journey from concept to construction.

The Design Approach

At the heart of the garden stands a striking treehouse, constructed from sustainably harvested timber. Elevated among the trees, it offers a sense of seclusion and serenity, setting the tone for the entire space. The planting, layout, and choice of materials have all been carefully considered to support a calm, immersive atmosphere.

Our design intention has been to evoke the feeling of a small, natural clearing in a late-spring woodland. With soft, dappled light and carefully layered planting, the garden flows with a gentle rhythm that encourages visitors to move slowly and mindfully through the space. It is a setting created for moments of quiet reflection, conversation, or simply pausing to take it all in.

Choosing the Plants

The planting scheme began to take shape following a visit to the nursery of one of the sponsors, Architectural Plants. Their team helped us select the key structural trees that will frame the garden. We chose Silver Birch for their white trunks and delicate canopies, which filter light beautifully and bring verticality without overpowering the space. These trees help nestle the treehouse into the landscape, giving it a sense of belonging rather than placement.

From there, the planting evolved into a naturalistic woodland scheme. We focused on soft colours and subtle textures — greens, whites, and pale blues using a curated mix of perennials. We selected ferns and grasses for their ability to thrive in dappled shade and they lend a gentle, layered quality to the planting.

Standout species include Astrantia, Iris, Geranium, and Cenolophium, supported by Polystichum ferns and grasses such as Deschampsia cespitosa. We also incorporated lemon balm and climbing jasmine to introduce fragrance, adding another sensory layer to the experience.

The result is a planting scheme that feels alive, natural, and quietly restorative. Many of the species are UK native or nectar-rich, contributing to biodiversity and attracting pollinators, a small but vital part of the garden’s ecological footprint.

Outdoor Entertaining

Beneath the treehouse, you’ll find a fully functional outdoor kitchen created bespoke by Gaze Burvill. Tucked just under the platform, it offers shelter and becomes a natural gathering point within the garden. The kitchen includes a bar area, built-in sink, fridge, and BBQ – all laid out intuitively to encourage social interaction.

The materials and forms mirror those used throughout the garden. Nothing feels overly contemporary or angular; instead, every element is beautifully crafted to sit comfortably within the natural setting. The seating curves gently around the edges, following the lines of the planting and stonework. Everything is designed with ease, comfort, and connection in mind.

The Role of Hard Landscaping

The materials chosen for the hard landscaping were selected to complement the natural rhythm of the garden. Rather than using hard boundaries or obvious zoning, we used texture and tone to gently distinguish paths from seating areas.

The main paths are constructed using reclaimed sandstone cobbles, supplied by Ca’Pietra. These stones feel grounded and tactile underfoot – their subtle irregularity encourages people to slow down and engage more physically with the space.

In contrast, the main seating and entertaining areas are finished in etched and tumbled limestone. The smoother texture offers a sense of transition from movement to stillness. The shift in surface helps define functional zones in a way that feels organic and unobtrusive.

Lighting

Lighting plays a subtle but essential role in the overall experience of the garden. We have worked with In-Lite and LandscapePlus to install discreet fixtures, hidden within the planting. These lights softly illuminate key features such as tree trunks and architectural foliage, enhancing the garden’s structure without drawing attention to the fittings themselves.

The overall effect is one of a quiet atmosphere, a garden that will move seamlessly from day into evening while retaining its sense of calm and natural beauty.

The Build

As with all Chelsea Flower Show gardens, the timeline for construction is tight. We begin construction on Friday 2nd May, with just two weeks to complete the space before the show opens on Monday 19th.

The first week will focus on the installation of the treehouse. Much of the structure is prefabricated off-site, allowing us to move quickly once the ground screws and frame are in place. Delivered in sections, the treehouse will be assembled on-site — a high-pressure, high-reward phase of the build.

The second week will focus on bringing the garden to life. We will be installing the hard landscaping, positioning trees, and setting out the planting. Meanwhile, the treehouse interiors will be completed, and the kitchen and seating areas will go in. Lighting and final details come last, with everything due to be completed the day before opening.

During show week, we will be welcoming the public into the garden and up into the treehouse. It’s a rare chance to explore the space in person, exactly as it was intended to be experienced. Medal judging takes place on the Tuesday, and like all exhibitors, we await the outcome with a sense of excitement and anticipation.

On-Site Challenges

Chelsea builds are never without challenges. Deliveries are timed to the minute, and even the smallest delay — whether due to traffic, weather, or logistics – can impact the schedule. The British springtime weather adds its own layer of unpredictability.

The site itself is full of activity, with designers, contractors, and planting teams all working in close proximity. Clear communication is crucial, and a little good humour goes a long way. Tea, coffee, and plenty of cake help keep spirits high. Ultimately, it’s the shared energy and collaboration of everyone involved that makes the build possible.

At the Show

This garden is created as a moment of calm within the energy of the Chelsea Flower Show. The Sanctuary does not demand attention; it invites it. It encourages visitors to pause, take a breath, and reconnect with something quieter and more grounded.

It is also a gentle reminder that gardens don’t have to be bold to be meaningful. Often, the most powerful spaces are those that make us feel simply at ease. That is the experience we hope to offer. A retreat, a sanctuary, and a space that stays with you long after you’ve visited.

What’s Next?

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