CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW 2022

Building a Wild Landscape: Dry-Stone Walling at Chelsea Flower Show 2022

At the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2022, designers Lulu Urquhart and Adam Hunt created their award-winning “A Rewilding Britain Landscape,” a striking vision of a rewilded countryside inspired by the impact of beavers on British ecosystems. The garden, which went on to win Best in Show, showcased native plants, flowing water features, and wildlife-friendly habitats - a true celebration of nature and ecological restoration.

I was proud to be involved in this project, contributing the dry-stone walling that formed a key structural element of the garden. The walls not only added texture and definition to the landscape but also helped create natural enclosures for the meandering brook and pool, echoing the effects of beaver engineering. Using traditional techniques and locally sourced stone, we aimed to blend the walls seamlessly into the rewilded environment, giving the impression that they had been part of the landscape for decades.

The garden featured a meandering brook lined with hawthorn, hazel, and field maple, leading to a pool and wetland area inspired by beaver activity. Surrounding meadows of native wildflowers, alder, and crack willow enhanced the sense of a naturally evolving ecosystem. The dry-stone walls played a subtle but important role, guiding water flow and creating terraces that supported planting and wildlife habitats.

A Rewilding Britain Landscape demonstrates how traditional craftsmanship, like dry-stone walling, can complement contemporary garden design. By combining ecological principles with skilled masonry, the garden celebrated both heritage and innovation - a reminder that human hands can work in harmony with nature.

Being part of a project that merges award-winning design, rewilding principles, and traditional craft was a highlight of my work. It was incredible to see how the walls we built became an integral part of a garden that not only delighted visitors but also showcased the positive impact of reintroducing species and rewilding landscapes.