CTC&G sat down with James Doyle, the principal of James Doyle Design Associates (JDDA), during the Chelsea Flower Show in London this past May. Doyle, working in partnership with British sculptor David Harber, conceived and built the trade stand at the prestigious show.
WHAT WAS YOUR VISION FOR THIS GARDEN?
Conceived as a natural and modern setting to highlight the sculptures of David Harber, the planting plan of the 2023 David Harber Trade Stand provides a vibrant and energetic scene in which to appreciate the artworks. At JDDA, our work reflects the intersection of nature and art—the juxtaposition of the designed and the natural. We use bold, contemporary, dynamic gestures in the form of sculptural plant material, innovative hardscaping and an infusion of landscape art. This garden reflects our philosophy and is meant to be thought provoking, with an appreciation for nature. The rectilinear central pavilion— constructed from sustainable lumber— not only provides shade and shelter but with its planted green roof, also demonstrates an important ecological function of increasing biodiversity and managing stormwater. In contrast to the straight lines of the structure, meandering paths allow for leisurely circulation and optimal enjoyment of the planted spaces and art pieces. Natural materials, unique flowering attributes and an unwavering attention to detail make this garden a true convergence of nature and art.
HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED WITH THIS YEAR’S SHOW?
I have had a professional relationship with David Harber for decades, and last year he asked if I would consider designing his trade garden.
WHAT CAME FIRST, THE SCULPTURES OR THE GARDEN?
Which informed the other? Perhaps the answer is the garden, but it wasn’t such a linear process. We had a design concept in mind and requested a list of preferred sculpture pieces from David. We then edited this list based on our preferences and the design that evolved.
IN TERMS OF PLANTS, WAS THERE A THEME REGARDING TEXTURE OR COLOR OR MASSING?
The planting plan focused on long-blooming plants, displaying distinctive textures of foliage and form, and in combinations that created a cohesive garden space. The color scheme was comprised predominately of warm colors to complement the color palette of David’s sculptures and the structure of the shelter. The green roof meadow was within the same color scheme.
WHO CAME UP WITH THE CONCEPT OF THE PAVILIONS?
I wanted the Harber Group to step out of its comfort zone and for us to display something unique to the Chelsea audience. Typically, Harber would bring in a prefab building as the shelter and place it at the rear of the garden. We placed our pavilions at the center of the space, helping us create beautiful vignettes for their artworks.
WHO ELSE MADE A CONTRIBUTION TO THE PROJECT?
The whole team was great: Matthew Willinger, Kasia Kuczynska and Yvonne Brandt from JDDA. Landscape contractor Nik Edser, and Rachel Reynolds from Langdale Landscapes were terrific.
