Five young designers battle it out at RHS Tatton Park
The RHS Young Designer Competition atTatton Park had the shortlist of finalists extended from three to five to celebrate its 10th anniversary.
The contest gives new and experienced designers aged 28 and under the chance to launch their careers and gain exposure at an RHS Flower Show. The finalists of 2018 designed a Show Garden encapsulating what a ‘feelgood’ garden meant to them.
RHS Young Designer Competition – ‘Feelgood gardens’
Will Williams, 22, from London, designed At One, showing how we can live alongside nature by incorporating homes for wildlife alongside our own, by growing plants for bees and butterflies.
Eds Higgins, 28, from Nottinghamshire, created Finding [urban] Nature, celebrating the hidden charms of wasteland. A real site in central Nottingham inspired it, which transformed into a field of flowers in summer. It has now sadly been turned into a car park.
Nicola Oakey, 28, from Lincolnshire, looked to childhood memories of Devon. Her design, Raised by Rivers, celebrated the calm, clarity and comfort that water provides.
Jimmy McAdam, 24, from Nottinghamshire, created the Born to Bee Wild garden, based on the concept of the beehive and the ability of this natural creation to promote life and become a hive of activity.
RHS Young Designer Competition – Stresses of urban living
Max Harriman, 26, from London, designed Calm in Chaos, with a space to escape the stresses of urban living. Every element was an escape to a tranquil, slower-paced way of life.
Competition mentor and designer Paul Hervey-Brookes said: “The RHS Young Designer competition offered a vital and exciting platform for young people in horticulture.
“During my time as a mentor, I have seen many promising young designers flourish and go on to successful careers. I’m delighted to continue to offer support and advice for this special anniversary year.”
For more on past RHS Tatton shows, visit my press day round-up. For more information and how to buy tickets, visit www.rhs.org.uk/tatton.
