London College of Garden Design Forecasts Top 10 Design Trends at Chelsea 2012

The London College of Garden Design has forecast the top ten design trends that we’ll be seeing at RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2012. With input from some of the big design names here’s their top ten trends to look out for.

1. Technology hits Chelsea big time with QR codes that made a showing last year translated into giant planted walls and Ipad inspiration for rooftop living as shown in Pat Fox’s show garden.
2. British countryside planting evoking country lanes and grassy meadows – see The Caravan Club Garden by Jo Thompson.
3. Health and home is big with exhibitors showing how gardens add to our health such as the Herbert Smith Artisan Garden for Wateraid.
4. And home workspace gardening is back throughout the show – check out the Rooftop Workplace of Tomorrow
5. Edibles are still on the menu but this year it’s heirloom varieties that are big – see The Plankbridge Hutmakers Artisan Garden
6. Perspex is one of the ‘in’ materials and appears all over the show both in the new Fresh category with conceptual ideas as well as Artisan spaces.
7. We have water everywhere but this year there are lots of eco ideas for storing and recycling – great ideas for our drought laden gardens.
8. Classical topiary marries up with garden history but this year its Beech that will be the big draw on a number of show gardens.
9. Stone walls were big in 2011 and are once again with us in 2012, especially as low benches and space dividers.
10. Green oak is making a big comeback as designers reconnect with softer materials.

FACTFILE:
The London College of Garden Design aims to offer the best professional garden design courses available in the UK. Launched in 2008 by three of the UK’s leading garden professionals, the London College of Garden Design one-year Garden Design Diploma classes take place in the Orangery conference facilities at the world famous Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Find out more about the LCGD at www.lcgd.org.uk/