Garden
For more than 30 years L’Occitane has brought the magic of Provence to the world in unique skincare products and fragrances. This year, for the first time, the beauty brand recreated the sights and scents of this inspirational region in their Show Garden. All of the plant species featured in the garden grow naturally in Provence and the surrounding Mediterranean landscape and are the key ingredients L’Occitane’s best-selling product collections.
"I am overjoyed that The L’Occitane Garden has been awarded this prestigious accolade. The Garden successfully delivers its intention of sharing with the world the inspiration L’Occitane takes from the plants and trees of Provence. Nature is at the heart of L’Occitane’s philosophy, and this garden represents the highest quality raw natural ingredients that are included in all of L’Occitane’s beauty products. Of course it’s always a shame not to get gold but what we’ve really loved is the emotional response from people when they see the garden, to see everyone smiling. We’re delighted to have captured that sense of well-being you get when you are in Provence." - David Boynton, L’Occitane Managing Director UK
"I have enjoyed every minute of working on The L’Occitane Garden. I have always been fascinated by the rich landscape of Provence - the wild bouquets of colour and texture that are unique to this area. The rich landscape provides the perfect inspiration for a Chelsea Flower Show Garden and gives a broad scope of planting opportunities. - James Towillis, Garden Designer
About James Towillis
James set up Urbanware in 2004, a company specialising in urban garden design, bespoke planters and garden furniture, whilst also studying garden design at Pershore College. He has exhibited at Urban Gardens, 100% Design, Grand Designs and Pulse. Most recently he exhibited at Chelsea, winning the Silver Flora. James has worked with a number of other garden designers, architects and private clients, and his work has featured in many mainstream magazines and newspapers, as well as on BBC Points West.
James was chosen by the SCA to design the Quilted Velvet Garden for the 2008 Chelsea Flower Show. The idea was to incorporate their theme of everyday luxury within a small urban roof garden. James’s roof garden earned him a silver medal in 2008.
James continues to take inspiration from the natural and imaginary landscape in his designs, whilst often including elements from his memories and past travels that evoke those fragile feelings associated with the magic and ancient connection to the earth we that we all share.
About Peter Dowle
Peter is the founder of Peter Dowle Plants and Gardens based in Newent, Gloucestershire. Peter Dowle Plants and Gardens offer a distinctive combination of creativity and experience. Working with designers, horticulturists and craftsmen who are experts in their respective fields Peter Dowle works with private and corporate clients to create unique outdoor environments. Hard landscaping using traditional and contemporary materials including York stone, natural rock and cobbles forms the structure of his gardens while features add grace and character.
Peter has brought to life award-winning gardens at Chelsea, Hampton Court and Tatton Park Shows, including 3 Chelsea Gold medal gardens and at the 1997 Hampton Court Show he interpreted the concept of one of the UK’s leading designers, David Stevens in the Citroen garden.
Most recently winning Silver-Gilt Flora for ‘The Off-Shore Garden’ and the aptly titled ‘Credit Crunch: The Banker’s Garden’ both with Sarah Eberle.
The Garden Awards aren’t over now that the gardens are revealed to the public; it’s up to the people to choose their favourite by voting online for the People’s Choice award: http://apps.rhs.org.uk/peoplechoice/ at www.rhs.org.uk