I recently had the pleasure of visiting the RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival 2024. Attending this event feels like stepping into a world where every petal tells a story, and every garden design showcases human creativity and the beauty of nature. Last week, I immersed myself in this vibrant celebration of horticulture. From the moment I entered the grounds, the air was filled with the scent of blooming flowers and the buzz of enthusiastic garden lovers.
The Hampton Court Flower Show, held annually at the historic Hampton Court Palace, is one of the most prestigious and anticipated events in the gardening world. It is renowned for its spectacular displays, innovative feature gardendesigns, and a rich array of horticultural expertise.
About the Hampton Court Flower Show
image credit: Mirela for House Designer
Established in 1990 by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), the Hampton Court Flower Show has grown to become the largest flower show in the world. The event, held in early July 2024, offers a perfect mid-summer showcase of the finest in horticulture. Unlike its older sibling, the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, which takes place in May, Hampton Court allows for a broader variety of plants and flowers to bloom at the height of summer.
I was fortunate to attend alongside other enthusiasts, including prominent designers such as Nilufer Danis and Juliet Sargeant, both known for their innovative work in garden design. It was inspiring to witness the collaboration and creativity, particularly in the Mediterraneo Garden, designed by Katerina Kantalis, which showcased a stunning blend of Mediterranean plants resilient to climate change. Sarah Cuttle, a renowned garden photographer, captured breathtaking images that truly brought these gardens to life.
A Feast for the Eyes
One of the first exhibits that caught my eye was the ‘Global Gardens’ display. Each feature garden represented a different part of the world, capturing the essence of diverse landscapes and cultures. The Asian-inspired garden, with its serene koi pond and meticulously pruned bonsai trees, was particularly stunning. The attention to detail was remarkable, right down to the intricate lanterns that added a soft, ambient glow.
image credit: Mirela for House Designer
Another highlight was the Lion King Anniversary Garden, which marked a special moment in the entertainment world. Designed with striking plants and bold colours, it captured the vibrancy of the iconic film, creating an immersive experience.
The ‘Urban Oasis’ section was another standout. This area focused on how to create green spaces in urban environments, a theme that resonates strongly with our work at House Designer.
The use of vertical gardens, compact water features, and multi-functional furniture demonstrated how even the smallest city courtyard can be transformed into a verdant retreat. I was particularly impressed by the clever use of recycled materials, which added an eco-friendly touch to the designs.
Floral Fantasies
image credit: Mirela for House Designer
The RHS Flower Show would not be complete without a dazzling array of floral displays. The Floral Marquee was a riot of colour, with growers showcasing everything from delicate orchids to towering delphiniums. Notable among them was the work of RHS Neil Hepworth, whose breathtaking photography and floral arrangements stood out.
One exhibit that left a lasting impression was the ‘Sustainable Floristry’ display. This innovative approach to flower arranging uses locally-sourced, seasonal blooms and eco-friendly materials. It was a timely reminder of the importance of sustainability in all aspects of design, and I left with a notebook full of ideas for incorporating these principles into our garden projects.
Garden Talks and Workshops
The educational aspect of the show is invaluable. From talks on wildlife-friendly gardens to hands-on workshops, the event was packed with learning opportunities. I particularly enjoyed a talk on sustainable floristry, which echoed many of the sustainable principles we incorporate at House Designer.
Attending the Garden Design Masterclass also provided fresh insights into the latest trends, such as incorporating edible plants into ornamental gardens and using smart technology for garden maintenance .
Inspiration Around Every Corner
image credit: Mirela for House Designer
As I wandered through the show, I was constantly struck by the creativity and passion on display. From the large show gardens to the smaller, more intimate spaces, every design had its own unique charm. The ‘Conceptual Gardens’ section was a particular favourite. Its bold and imaginative designs pushed the boundaries of traditional garden aesthetics.
One of my personal favourites was the Sounds of Adventure Garden, which integrated elements of sound and design. It was inspired by the ethos of Exodus Adventure Travels, merging nature with travel in a way that captured the spirit of adventure.
Natural Style Planting and Water Management
image credit: Mirela for House Designer
This year, a noticeable trend at the Hampton Court Flower Show 2024 was the shift toward natural style planting, effective water management, and reducing impermeable surfaces. Gravel was widely used, not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its practicality in drought conditions and its ability to reduce water runoff. This approach was particularly evident in the Mediterraneo Garden, a beautifully crafted display that emphasised sustainability.
Additionally, the emphasis on pollinator-friendly plants resonated with me. As part of our ethos at House Designer, creating gardens that are both sustainable and wildlife-friendly aligns with our mission to design outdoor spaces that are resilient and ecologically balanced.
image credit: Mirela for House Designer
The Conceptual Gardens section was bold and imaginative, pushing the boundaries of traditional garden aesthetics. One garden, designed by Katerina Kantalis, featured mirrored panels, creating a kaleidoscopic effect that was both visually striking and thought-provoking. Another garden used abstract sculptures to represent the passage of time, leaving visitors in awe.
Hampton Court Flower Show 2024
My visit to the Hampton Court Flower Show was an unforgettable experience. The day was filled with beauty, inspiration, and learning. As a garden designer, getting caught up in the day-to-day details of projects is easy, but events like this serve as a reminder of the broader possibilities and the joy that well-designed gardens can bring to people’s lives.
The garden design ideas and insights gained from the show have already started to influence my work at House Designer. Whether it’s incorporating sustainable practices, creating wildlife-friendly spaces, or simply finding new ways to bring beauty into everyday life, the Hampton Court Flower Show has provided a wealth of inspiration. I can’t wait to start integrating these ideas into our projects and sharing them with our clients.
For more information on the Hampton Court Flower Show, visit the Royal Horticultural Society website.