Journal
Ideas, inspiration and stories from the studio
Here you’ll find updates from current projects, insights into our design process, seasonal planting advice and a glimpse behind the scenes at Rob Hardy & Co.
Chelsea Flower Show 2026: Selecting Stone, Crafting the Foundations of Our Garden
Behind the scenes of Chelsea Flower Show 2026, the material palette for our garden is taking shape. From sourcing exclusive Irish sandstone for the water feature to reworking reclaimed Luciano stone into bespoke planks, each decision is made with care and intent. Discover how hand selecting boulders, refining textures and working closely with skilled suppliers brings depth, character and quiet precision to the foundations of the garden.
Chelsea Flower Show 2026: planting preparations
Behind the scenes of Chelsea Flower Show 2026, our planting preparations are in full swing. From selecting specimen trees at the nursery to mapping out the garden at full scale, this is where design meets nature. Discover how careful planning, timing and adaptability come together to ensure every plant reaches its peak for show week.
Chelsea Flower Show 2026: talking all things Chelsea on BBC Radio Leeds
As part of our journey to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2026, Rob recently spoke with Gayle Lofthouse on BBC Radio Leeds about the development of our show garden. In this post, we share highlights from the interview, discussing the inspiration behind the design, the story of the garden, and what lies ahead as we prepare for Chelsea 2026.
Chelsea Flower Show 2026: Developing the reciprocal frame at the heart of our garden
As we prepare for the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2026, we’re sharing the development of the reciprocal frame at the heart of our garden design. From early matchstick models to a crafted timber structure, this post explores how the reciprocal frame was designed, engineered and made — and why it has become a powerful symbol of collaboration and shared purpose within our Chelsea garden.
Chelsea Flower Show 2026: finalising our plant list at Provender Nurseries
Join us behind the scenes as we visit Provender Nurseries to refine our plant list and progress our RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2026 garden. Discover how expert discussions, planning, and collaboration are shaping the final design.
The art of outdoor living: creating a bespoke garden sanctuary for your home
Discover how thoughtful, bespoke garden design can transform your outdoor space into a sanctuary for living well — a place of beauty, comfort, and timeless craftsmanship.
The art of garden sculpture: transforming your outdoor space (part 2)
Sculpture has long been a powerful element in garden design, offering a unique way to enhance the atmosphere and aesthetic of an outdoor space. By introducing form and structure, sculpture can anchor a design, create focal points, and evoke emotions that complement the natural beauty of the garden. Whether it’s a classical figure or a contemporary abstract form, sculptures add layers of meaning and artistry, enriching the experience of the landscape.
The art of garden sculpture: transforming your outdoor space (part one)
For our clients, gardens serve as an extension of their living spaces—a place where beauty, relaxation, and personal style come together. One of the most impactful ways to enhance these outdoor sanctuaries is through the use of sculpture. Far more than mere decoration, sculptures can transform a garden, evoking emotion, making a statement, and adding layers of sophistication and intrigue.
Choosing between natural stone and porcelain paving for your garden
When it comes to designing your dream garden, selecting the right paving material is crucial. Among the myriad of choices available, two popular options stand out: real stone and porcelain paving. Each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and understanding these can help you make an informed decision tailored to your specific needs and preferences.
Highlights of the year gone by
With the new year celebrations on the horizon, there’s a temptation to start thinking about the year ahead, to set goals and get excited about what’s to come. But that’s for another day. Right now, it’s time to relax by the fire, to unwind and reflect on the year gone by…
Is winter the perfect time to start a garden design project?
If you’ve spent the summer enjoying your garden or thinking about how it could be improved, there’s no need to put off a garden design project until spring. We feel there are some distinct advantages to working on your garden design project in winter.
Site analysis: balancing creativity with constraints
Find out about site analysis, the first stage in our garden design process, and why it’s an important first step to getting your dream garden.
The best shade-providing garden structures during hot summers
With average temperatures set to rise, we need to look at how we can design gardens that include shady retreats and protect us from the hot summer sun.
How do I choose the right type of gravel?
Find out about gravel - how it has been used in gardens around the world and what you should consider when using it in your garden.
7 Tips for Maximising Materials
The second part in our careful garden design series takes a look at the garden design and construction process and what you can do to maximise materials.
10 Tips for Minimizing Waste
The first part in our careful garden design series takes a look at the garden design process and what you can do to minimize waste.
Glorious Gardens for Dry Conditions
With the hosepipe ban now in force across much of the UK, we take a look at how our gardens need to change to cope with predicted drier conditions. We also consider what we can do to make a difference.
Creating a spectacular outdoor room
With so many of us working from home, is now the time to consider building an outdoor room in your garden? We look at the key considerations if you’re thinking about installing an outdoor room in your garden.