The Perennial Giving Garden at this summer’s RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show will raise awareness of the only trade charity dedicated to helping all horticulturists in need and highlight the importance of gifts in wills.
Designed by Frederic Whyte and Darran Jaques and sponsored and constructed by Living Landscapes, this contemporary water garden is a stylish urban space, conceived for a philanthropic professional couple who want to leave a lasting legacy in the form of a garden.
Both Freddy and Darran are established in the industry and long-term supporters of Perennial. They understand how important legacies are to Perennial’s ability to continue its work and have both made provision to leave gifts to the charity in their own wills.
Anita Bates, director of marketing and fundraising at Perennial said none of the wonderful show gardens would be possible without the skilled horticulturists, growers and everyone else in the profession involved in creating them. “Perennial exists to support all of those people if ever they face difficult times. Thanks go to Freddy and Darran for leading by example and generously promising a gift to Perennial in their wills. Legacy donations form a large and hugely important part of our charitable income and all gifts of whatever size will make a difference.”
The roots of the Perennial Giving Garden are firmly planted in the profession of horticulture. Every day, designers and landscapers face the challenge of turning their client’s ideas and inspirations into living, breathing, growing spaces and this garden reflects just that. It fits the brief for a chic, contemporary space for outdoor living that both entertains and can be used for entertaining. It is dedicated to those who work to keep the UK’s gardens and green spaces beautiful and celebrates the best of British horticultural expertise, past and present.
Water plays an important role within the design, creating a relaxing and inviting ambience. Perennial’s influence is evident in various design elements such as the Arts and Crafts sunken lily pond, reminiscent of York Gate Garden near Leeds, and the natural plunge pool by Clear Water Revival, immersed in greenery that evokes the secluded beauty of Fullers Mill Garden in Suffolk.
Paved pathways and entertaining areas introduce an elegant and contemporary streamlined feel, accentuated by contrast with a sophisticated, lush and eclectic planting palette. A bespoke pergola for entertaining and relaxing overlooks the rippling lily pond.
Designer Freddy Whyte says: “The huge effort and team work involved in creating this garden is a testament to the vast reservoir of expertise in the horticultural sector, and justified by their collective support of Perennial.”
