The HESCO Garden
The HESCO Garden
Designed by Martin Walker and Leeds City Council
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Martin takes us on a tour of the HESCO Garden.
Design inspiration
Following recent wet summers the management of excess water in the garden is a subject close to many gardeners' hearts. The damp Yorkshire climate provided the Leeds team with ideal conditions for a 'rain garden'.
For The HESCO Garden they have recreated a stone cottage in the shelter of a wooded, rocky landscape, complete with a typically rainy day. Pulses of water run from the cottage roof through stormwater planters and down into the garden. The central, bowl-shaped area contains the main rain garden features and planting will represent both moisture loving plants and moisture tolerant plants that will survive occasional flooding.
The shape of the garden and its ability to contain and allow gradual percolation of stormwater has the potential to contribute to flood alleviation while at the same time providing a home to colourful, naturalistic planting and abundant wildlife.
"The wet summers and subsequent floods of the last two years inspired us to bring an American-style rain garden to Chelsea this year. Our garden has a simple message, 'How can sustainable drainage techniques be adapted to the domestic garden situation?'"
Your comments
Comments
This is the ABSOLUTE BEST garden of the lot.
It has tranquility, colour, movement and water - every thing a garden should have. I just wanted to be in it.
To be able to wander through such a beautiful, peaceful place any time I
wanted would be a dream come true.
It should have got GOLD and best in show. Well Done Martin.
Wonderful garden deserved a Gold.
Great that the issue of rain in terms of excess or drought in gardening and the management of storm water to alleviate flash flooding has been considered in this visually attractive and replicable natural way.
Can imagine this garden in any street.
This garden is amazing! When I look at it, it almost takes me to my own world where I will find beautiful flowers everywhere that smell lovely. This garden is probably one of my favourite gardens here and makes me feel jolly and always puts a smile onto my face! :)
A stunning garden that should have recieved gold!
This is a garden I would love to have as my own, I cant understand the judging that seems to go towards the green minimalistic 'designer' style gardens when the public want to see gardens with colour and design that we can all aspire to, absolutely beautifull I hope this is a trend that will grow and we will see more of next year.
This is a garden I feel anyone could live with and would feel a part of its ambience. Its light colouring and rustic appearance makes it stand out, as does the delicate plant lines contrasting with its strong coarse features. Its space is filled with a splendid array of plants, hidden corners and movable furniture that would entice many thoughtful and refreshing hours.
I love the garden - one I would love for myself, the planting is cottage style with water loving plants, the stones, well everything blends so well.
Never mind the modern gardens - THIS type of garden will always be appreciated.
really love this garden , it's good to look forward and think of problems that may come in the future
i could live happily un this garden it reminds me of my childhood at grandparents hope you get best in show
About this garden
Silver-Gilt Flora Medal Winner
See viewers' comments on this garden at the foot of the page.
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This is a truly stunning garden that anyone would be delighted to look on to. The planners have taken all our climate problems into consideration and created a haven of tranquility through it all! It's certainly inspired me as I live in the North, and my poor wee garden has hardly been touched in the last couple of years due to the dreadful weather. A gold was most certainly due!
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