Boring British Garden Design?

A report which featured in The Guardian at the beginning of the June, questioned whether or not British gardens are stuck in the past. The debate followed a comment made by celebrity gardener Monty Don on a BBC Radio 4 programme which inferred that Brits are overly conventional in their approach to garden design “The British are obsessed by plants, provenance of plants and there is a lot of one-up-manship” by contrast Don went on to add “Italians love design, love bella figura, the way things look and appear and don’t care how they achieve it. Gardens are more than just plants. Which is what you get in Italian gardens”.

To make such a sweeping statement which effectively denounces the whole nation’s design credentials is not only insensitive, it is also wildly inaccurate. There are still garden owners for whom the choice of plants will always remain the focal point for the outdoor room, and yes, certainly there are also those for whom a garden is simply not a garden if it is devoid of lavender and a bed of English roses. But to infer that all British gardens are lacking in individuality, innovation and sheer style is a travesty.

As the Guardian states “Brits are a whole load more creative and eclectic than (some journalists) suggest”. This country celebrates a myriad of garden styles, ranging from über chic urban, essentially English, ultra modern and naturally eco-friendly. If we are so backwards in our design thinking, how come our garden shows enjoy such a prestigious reputation around the world? We would concur with The Guardian’s comment that “British gardening and design really is a rich and varied tapestry, and long may it remain so”.

The design for every garden is bespoke, geared towards meeting the individual needs and aspirations of its owners. No two gardens will be the same, let alone the gardens of an entire nation! If you are in need of some design inspiration for your garden, call Lime Orchard on 0845 539 1467 for a free, no obligation visit.