Chelsea Flower Show, 2023

James was delighted to be back at Chelsea Flower Show in May 2023 with experienced developer London Square winning a GOLD Medal in the Sanctuary garden category. This was James’s first judged garden and the whole team were delighted with the result. We were also fortunate to be visited by King Charles & Queen Camilla, a truly memorable moment.

Bringing together a community is the thread running through this garden, where people can meet, relax, share food and connect with nature. Two distinct areas combine to make this happen. There’s a welcoming meeting space under a pergola with an outdoor kitchen, a big communal table inset with chess and draughts boards and individually styled upcycled chairs by The Repair Shop’s Jay Blades furniture restorers, with raised beds containing edible herbs and vegetables for cooking.

The story behind this garden began at a London-wide Open Gardens Weekend where event sponsors London Square were inspired by the volunteers on the Doddington estate in Battersea, who had created a half-acre community garden using donated trees, shrubs, perennials and edibles – a green oasis tucked between the tower blocks.  Elements of the show garden were relocated here after the show.

Sponsor – London Square

Contractor – The Landscaping consultants