Gardener Nigel Dunnett to reappear at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in 2025, showcasing an astounding sand dune garden.
Nigel Dunnett's Hospitalfield Arts Garden, a captivating design inspired by the sand dunes of Arbroath, Scotland, has made a significant impact at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2025. The contemporary arts organisation, Hospitalfield Arts, is the beneficiary of this innovative garden, which showcases a dramatic and highly sculptural dune landscape [1][2][4].
### Design and Features
The garden features a central 'artist bothy' studio, offering a space for creative practice, contemplation, and education [4]. The topography includes steep dune forms, mirroring the natural geology of the Scottish east coast and supporting artistic gardening activities [5]. Materials such as MEDITE TRICOYA EXTREME, a durable and sustainable MDF panel coated with an iron-filled stain, were used for garden boundaries and sculptural dune elements. This choice balances design freedom, performance, and environmental purpose suitable for the exposed coastal setting [4].
The planting maintains a naturalistic style consistent with the dune theme, promoting creativity and connection with the environment [3][5]. The garden also includes a dune pool that collects rainwater from the studio and surrounding dunes, demonstrating an alternative method for water management [1][6].
### Awards and Recognition
The garden won a prestigious Silver-gilt medal at the 2025 Chelsea Flower Show, a high recognition between gold and silver medals by the judging panel [1].
### Relocation Details
After the show, the garden will be adapted and relocated to Ladyloan Primary School in Arbroath, Angus. This move aims to extend the garden’s legacy by providing an inspiring outdoor learning and creative space for pupils and teachers there [1][4].
This project exemplifies a collaboration between art, sustainable design, and education, supporting Hospitalfield Arts' commitment to nurturing creative talent in Scotland through an immersive garden environment [1][4].
Monty Don will also be designing a garden at the Chelsea Flower Show, adding to the excitement and anticipation of this year's event. Tickets and information for the Royal Horticultural Society's Chelsea Flower Show 2025, taking place from May 20 to May 24, are available.
[1] https://www.hospitalfield.org.uk/news/nigel-dunnett-to-design-show-garden-at-the-rhs-chelsea-flower-show-2025 [2] https://www.rhs.org.uk/shows-events/rhs-chelsea-flower-show [3] https://www.hospitalfield.org.uk/news/nigel-dunnett-to-design-hospitalfield-arts-garden-at-the-rhs-chelsea-flower-show-2025 [4] https://www.rhs.org.uk/shows-events/rhs-chelsea-flower-show/gardens/show-gardens/hospitalfield-arts [5] https://www.hospitalfield.org.uk/news/nigel-dunnett-to-design-second-garden-for-hospitalfield-arts [6] https://www.hospitalfield.org.uk/news/nigel-dunnett-to-design-hospitalfield-arts-garden-at-the-rhs-chelsea-flower-show-2025
- Nigel Dunnett's Hospitalfield Arts Garden, featuring an artist bothy studio and a dune landscape inspired by the Scottish coast, demonstrates a striking fusion of garden design and environmental sustainability.
- The captivating garden design encourages a connection with the environment through its naturalistic planting and innovative water management, embodying the lifestyle principles of home-and-garden enthusiasts.
- After making a splash at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2025 with a Silver-gilt medal, the Hospitalfield Arts Garden will be relocated to Ladyloan Primary School in Arbroath, serving as an inspiring learning space for pupils and teachers, and carrying forward its mission of nurturing creative talent.
