Constructing Minds, a garden that aims to raise awareness of suicide rates in construction and promote the restorative power of green spaces, has been awarded Best Show Garden on the opening day of RHS Flower Show Tatton Park.

Designers Carolyn Hardern and Jon Jarvis believe mental health should be taken far more seriously in construction, where an average of two workers take their own lives every day, making it the industry with the highest suicide rate in the UK.

Carolyn and Jon say: “The prejudice or lack of understanding can make it difficult for individuals to seek help. Mental health should be talked about more openly within the construction industry and be much more of a priority.

“We also want people to appreciate the positive benefits that green spaces can provide.

“Research shows that regular access to green spaces can benefit mental health, and we have designed a calming space that we hope may help support those in suicidal crisis.”

The garden, supported by ‘Band of Builders’ and ‘SED Services’, is inspired by the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) and features gentle planting, a reflective pool and provides a tranquil space for contemplation and one-to-one counselling.

The Best Construction Award for a Show Garden has been awarded to J.Parker’s Chained to Tech Garden designed by Rachel Platt. The vibrant and dynamic space highlights the physical and mental effects of screen-based technologies.

The Best Young Designer Garden and Best Construction for a Young Designer Garden has been awarded to Off the Grid, by Nathan Webster, which aims to show how an individual can live within nature, self-sustainably.

Brickyard, by Conal McGuire, has been awarded Best Terrace and Slim Space Garden. The garden, which will be rehomed in a Liverpool community, features recycled and repurposed materials, and offers a template for green urban design.

Helena Pettit, RHS Director of Gardens and Shows said: “Congratulations to all the designers and their fabulous teams for creating such beautiful gardens at RHS Flower Show Tatton Park 2023. Not only are they stunning and packed with inspiration and ideas, many are promoting important messages that will start conversations.”

Tickets to RHS Flower Show Tatton Park can be purchased in person at the ticket office or online at www.rhs.org.uk/tatton.