Walking Barefoot at the Chelsea Flower Show

February 2006

Visually exciting, innovative and a surprise around every corner are just three ways to describe first time Chelsea designer Sarah Eberle’s garden at this year’s Chelsea Flower Show.

From the light filled room at the rear of the garden to the imposing ornamental pond with changing water levels, this contemporary design highlights how structural planting and hard landscaping can work together to create a truly spiritual outside space.

Titled ‘Walking Barefoot with Bradstone’, the garden features textural hard landscaping, monolithic boulders and planting with a limited palate to evoke a sense of peace and tranquillity.

In line with a growing sensitivity to environmental concerns, the garden makes use of a water drainage system, developed by sponsors Bradstone, which means rainwater can be collected in channels and reused for irrigation and in the garden’s central feature, the ornamental pool. The planting has been selected for the varying habitat and chosen for foliage interest over flower.

Sarah says, “Getting the environmental elements right were an essential part of the overall design of the garden. After all, as consumers we’re becoming much greener both in our homes and gardens.

“The concept for the garden has evolved over the last six months, and I’m delighted with the final design. It’s a contemporary space, but one with elements that visitors to the show can create in their own gardens. The different elements within the garden will test the five senses and create a magical and intriguing space.”

Paul Wagstaff, from sponsors Bradstone, says, “This garden is very different to anything we’ve done in the past, and is an enchanting and compelling creation. The use of environmentally friendly products is a very important part of the garden and the design will confirm that green can be used in any domestic setting.”