Innholdsfortegnelse for Issue 73 - 2025 i Landscape & Urban Design

Talented topiarists from across the UK and Europe are being called upon to sharpen their shears for the Henchman Topiary Awards 2025. Following the resounding success of the inaugural awards in 2024, the popular competition founded by leading ladder garden specialist Henchman is set to return this spring – and will be expanding to accept entrants from across Europe. Launching on 20th March 2025, the Henchman Topiary Awards will celebrate the art of transforming foliage into stunning living sculptures. This year, the competition expands across multiple countries, giving topiary enthusiasts from across Europe the chance to showcase their skills. The awards will once again feature two categories – Best Professional Topiary, for seasoned topiarists and horticultural professionals, and Best Home Garden Creation, for passionate gardeners and enthusiasts who have mastered…

With over 140 years of expertise, Osmo has perfected the crafting of natural wood finishes, understanding what’s needed to protect and enhance wooden surfaces. Now, thanks to the innovative Osmo Tinting System, one of their most popular products is back and better than ever: the One Coat Only HS Plus. This transparent, coloured finish delivers excellent coverage and high UV protection—all in just one coat. Made from natural ingredients, the dried finish is safe for humans, animals, and plants, making it ideal for sensitive areas like children’s play equipment, spaces near marine life, and even beehives. The One Coat Only HS Plus deeply penetrates and nourishes the wood, keeping it healthy and flexible. Its finish resists cracking, peeling, and flaking, ensuring a longlasting surface. Plus, with proper maintenance, there’s no…

Practicality Brown are delighted to support Garden Designers at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show again this year. We are supplying Yew Practical Instant Hedge™ for Sadie May Stowell’s installation at the show. We have more hedging in Ryan McMahon’s garden in the All About Plants category. The RHS’s All About Plants category, has tasked four designers to look at how plants, wildlife and people adapt and interact with the environment around them. All the gardens in this category are supported by Project Giving Back, a grant-giving charity that supports gardens for good causes at RHS Chelsea Flower Show. The designs in this category have a particular focus on unusual and specialist plants. Seawilding Ryan McMahon Seawilding garden captures the spirit of Scotland’s west coast landscape, with a saltwater pool planted…

Composite panels are an increasingly popular alternative to timber, offering a combination of lasting looks and low maintenance. Here, Patrick Guest, Managing Director at Birkdale, discusses the advantages of composite fence panel solutions. Timber panels have been a firm favourite amongst fencers and homeowners for some years, thanks to their relative ease of installation, aesthetics and low cost. However, with these positives come drawbacks such as their short lifespan, their relative fragility and the maintenance they require. In contrast, composite panels offer a longer lasting, lower maintenance option that is just as affordable. Lifespan While timber fence panels deliver a limited lifespan of up to 10 years with regular treatment and maintenance, a composite panel is engineered to resist the worst of the elements. Birkdale’s panels are made from either…

The beginning of the year presents an opportunity for architects and interior designers to start exploring innovative solutions for upcoming exterior design projects. Much like interior design, exterior design creates a cohesive environment where various elements come together to establish a unique atmosphere. From ambient terrace and patio lights to dynamic landscape solutions, Vibia presents a range of unique lighting solutions designed to enhance outdoor wellbeing at any time of year. DOTS OUTDOOR: Glass, Sconce, Floor Designing the perfect outdoor space begins with considering how it will be used, ensuring harmony in its composition, and understanding the evolving relationship between light and material elements. The Dots Outdoor collection is characterised by minimalist aesthetics. Designed by Martín Azúa, it presents a range of compact, circular and cylindrical fixtures that provide subtle,…

A ‘healing’ Nature that weaves through the pathways between hospital buildings, offering wellbeing and environmental comfort to patients, staff, and visitors in a place historically dedicated to health. This is the vision of LAND for the regeneration of the open spaces at the Policlinico di Milano: a project that began on March 25 with the planting of the first trees, a true gift to the city in celebration of the 35th anniversary of the international landscape consultancy led by Andreas Kipar. With permeability and ecological continuity, this part of the city, with 500 years of history, will regain its pulse, thanks to a widespread natural environment that will harmonize with the soon-to-be-created Therapeutic Garden above the Sforza Pavilion. Humanizing with Nature one of Italy’s most important hospital centers. This is…

Discussion around SuDS (Sustainable Drainage Systems) often focuses on the immediate, visible benefits of introducing surface water management systems that enhances the appeal of local landscaping aesthetics, which is of course a fair and important consideration for many scheme designers. However, at Brett Landscaping we have been championing an underappreciated aspect of installing an effective fit for purpose SuDS system that is right for the environment it serves – efficient longevity. As local authorities and government are looking at ways to tackle a highways repair backlog that is estimated to require more than £17bn of investment, Brett Landscaping has undertaken research to demonstrate the longterm effectiveness of Concrete Block Permeable Paving (CBPP), offering a feasible proven solution for local authorities to the pothole maintenance backlog if used on small estate…

As the weather warms up all potential water issues multiply, but there is a natural, environmentally friendly, safe and cost-effective way to prevent problems before they occur with Otterbine’s range of surface and subsurface aerators. Otterbine aerators have been successfully used as an algae control strategy to improve water clarity and quality the world over, simply by adding air and circulating oxygen in the water. This simple process stops the water from stagnating, keeps algae and aquatic weeds under control, eliminates odours, prolongs the life of the water and attracts wildlife. The main difference between the two options of surface and sub surface aeration is where the aerator sits in the water: surface spray aerators, as the name suggests, sit on top of the water and throw water droplets through…

The Retreats Group, which encompasses three of the leading luxury hotels in Wales—Twr y Felin Hotel, Roch Castle, and Penrhiw Priory—has always been dedicated to maintaining immaculate grounds that reflect the beauty of its locations. For Ollie Davies, the groundskeeper and supervisor for The Retreats Group, maintaining these stunning landscapes has become significantly easier since the purchase of a Etesia Hydro 100 ride-on mower. “The properties are undulating and steep in places,” says Ollie. “My brother used to help me look after the grounds, and when he left, we decided that instead of employing someone else full-time, we would invest in one of these machines and see how it would benefit me.” Before the Hydro 100, Ollie managed the extensive lawns using pedestrian mowers—a task that was both time consuming…

The Grade II-listed Mountbatten House - now rebranded as Plant - on the Basing View business park in Basingstoke has undergone a comprehensive refurbishment, including the restoration of its iconic roof gardens originally designed in the 1970s by renowned garden designer James Russell. Listed among the top 15 modern buildings in the UK, it now boasts BREEAM Outstanding and WELL Platinum certifications, placing it firmly at the forefront of sustainable redevelopment. This heritage-led transformation aimed to enhance both the original building and gardens while introducing contemporary functionality. The client envisioned a landscape scheme that would honour Russell’s design legacy, meet modern environmental standards, and create a welcoming space for office workers and visitors alike. Studio Knight Stokoe led the landscape design, collaborating with Waterscapes Ltd and Main Contractor C. Field…

With RHS research linking the presence of houseplants with reductions in health complaints and sick leave in work environments, indoor plants and their health benefits will be celebrated across RHS Shows this year. The Houseplant Studios at RHS Chelsea, proudly sponsored by Malvern Garden Buildings, contain a plethora of inspiration for curating an indoor sanctuary filled with an array of beautiful plants. Inspired by a space in a home solely dedicated to houseplants, the terrariROOM plants will be displayed in ways that make their care simple and resembles an enterable terrarium. Grow lights will demonstrate how houseplants don’t have to be placed next to a window to thrive. The Babylon Beats exhibit draws inspiration from The Hanging Gardens of Babylon. An ancient wonder of the world and an early documented…

When it comes to colour and texture, powder coatings are a bit like a chameleon—able to take on almost any appearance you can dream up. At Powdertech Corby, we’ve taken this idea and run with it, developing a stunning portfolio of finishes that echo the beauty of nature itself. Think warm wood grains, rugged stone textures, rustic terracotta, and even the rich sheen of polished or weathered metals. Why? Because we know that architects and designers are constantly seeking that perfect balance between aesthetic appeal and practical performance. Our ‘mimetic’ finishes let you recreate the character of natural materials—materials we’re all deeply drawn to—while harnessing the benefits of strong, flexible, and lightweight metals like aluminium. Art imitating nature In essence, we’re embracing the ancient concept of mimesis—imitation—as a design philosophy.…

At Palmako, we’ve spent over 25 years helping people create beautiful, functional outdoor spaces. Whether it’s a cosy garden room, a relaxing sauna, a charming summer house, a stylish gazebo, or a solid shed, each one is made from high quality Nordic spruce—built to last and look amazing. Choose DIY or let us install it for you, with free mainland UK delivery included. But don’t wait too long - timber costs are rising, and our prices go up on 20th May. PALMAKO.CO.UK DUE TO RISING TIMBER COSTS, PRICES WILL INCREASE ON MAY 20TH Visit palamako.co.uk today and secure your dream garden building at the best price!…

Lodes expands its design horizons with the launch of its first outdoor lighting collection: Lodes OUTDOOR. This innovative project redefines outdoor lighting through high-performance decorative luminaires that integrate seamlessly into residential and hospitality environments, creating a fluid transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. “Our approach to outdoor lighting is innovative and unconventional, offering solutions that are both functional and decorative.” Lodes Managing Director Massimiliano Tosetto Design without boundaries: Beyond conventional outdoor lighting Lodes OUTDOOR stands out for its versatility and ability to adapt to a variety of settings, from terraces and pergolas to gardens, shading systems, and architectural elements such as living walls. Whether in residential or hospitality environments, Lodes solutions enhance outdoor spaces, complementing both the natural landscape and architectural surroundings. Lodes’ entry into the outdoor lighting sector is…

Sky Garden is proud to be at the forefront of green roof innovation in the UK, offering a truly end-to-end service that supports sustainable urban development. Now part of the Genuit Group, they’ve joined forces with one of the UK’s leading providers of sustainable water and climate management solutions — a move that brings exceptional synergies across product innovation, sustainability, and delivery. Sky Garden is unique in the green roof sector. From their dedicated farm in Worcestershire, they grow and nurture all the vegetation used in their systems — including their ever-popular modular trays, which are matured on-site for instant visual impact and plant health. Alongside this, they operate a production facility where they blend specialist substrates using sustainable raw materials. This hub also consolidates all components — from fleeces…

Hard landscaping can transform outdoor spaces with the right stonework. Chilstone’s range is entirely handmade, ensuring a quality finish and fine detailing that weathers like carved stone. But it has greater versatility and can provide a cost effective solution. Add The Wow Factor To Garden Steps and Patios Garden landscaping can be tricky, aligning different surfaces and levels, especially with, paths, patios and lawns to consider. Steps need to be practical and accessible while still creating a beautiful feature. Chilstone’s adaptable range of steps and balustrades can offer a practical solution your clients will admire for years to come. Our experienced team can cleverly configure components to allow for curves to economise your budget without skimping on style. We can colour match to blend with existing stonework and we offer…

Specifiers and installers looking to create attractive, highly functional architectural landscaping elements on roof terraces, balconies, podium decks and walkways can now source the complete system, from sub-structure through to planters/seating, thanks to a collaboration between two industry leaders. Wallbarn - an expert in pedestal and sub-structure systems - has joined with Bespoke Metal Planters to develop Permeate, a versatile hard/soft landscaping system encompassing all elements required to deliver strong, long-lasting, super flat paved or decked spaces with attractive seating and planters. The partnership enables contractors to deliver complete systems, from pedestals to premium fire-rated decking and paving options to bespoke planters and cantilevered or floating seating elements; it’s a one-stop-shop facilitating easier ordering, perfectly timed deliveries and full collaboration between Wallbarn and Bespoke Metal Planters, simplifying complex projects. Furthermore,…

Entries for the British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI) National Landscape Awards are pouring in but there’s still time to be recognised among the elite of the landscaping industry. This renowned industry event, which welcomes Origin Enterprises as the new headline sponsor, celebrates the best in landscape design, construction, and maintenance across the UK and internationally each year. Taking place on 5th December 2025 at JW Marriott Grosvenor House Hotel in London, the Awards are widely regarded as the industry’s highest accolade. With almost 100 entries received last year, they reflect the vast array of quality landscaping works being undertaken by BALI members on a daily basis. Entrants in 2025 will have the opportunity to gain valuable exposure, build their reputations, and join an esteemed cohort of industry leaders who…

Chosen by O.E.M’s & end users the world over, Carlstar’s (formerly Carlisle) groundcare tyre range encompasses sizes, fitments and specifications to suit almost every make, model and application of groundcare machine on the market. From pedestrian mowers and hand powered equipment, to golf equipment, bank and threshing mowers, zero turn mowers, stadium maintenance equipment & compact tractors, Carlstar have fitments and patterns to suit all scenarios and Tyre-Line are proud to have been importing and distributing their products for over 30 years. With an ever-expanding product range, and with sizes starting at just 4” rim size, Carlstar’s specialist groundcare range of tyres boasts well known pattern names including Turf Saver, Turf Trac R/S, Turf CTR, AT101, Super Lug, Ultra Trac, Sawtooth Turf Pro and Fast Trax to name but a…

The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) announces its line-up of world-renowned flower shows set to take place in 2025, celebrating the latest in horticulture and featuring award-winning gardens and stunning floral displays. RHS Malvern Spring Festival, 8-11 May, 9am-6pm Where: Three Counties Showground, WR13 6NW Tickets: £16 - £45 Launching the 2025 RHS Flower Show Season with exciting garden designs, vibrant displays from leading nurseries, demonstrations and expert talks, RHS Malvern Spring Festival is guaranteed to inspire gardening projects of all sizes. The Festival features stunning florals, delicious food and fun for the whole family, as well as providing the perfect opportunity to stock up on plants and the latest horticultural innovations needed to make your garden summer ready. RHS Chelsea Flower Show, sponsored by The Newt in Somerset – 20-24…

Fully mature, ready to plant hedges, perfectly knitted together to give your garden an instant transformation. There are so many types to choose from including individual plants, low and high panels and even screens. Ordering from Readyhedge is as easy as… 1. Choose your hedge variety2. Select the height you desire3. Measure the required distance in metres You need 1 bag or trough for every metre measured, it really is that simple! Create the perfect frame for any garden with our choice of over 35 varieties of hedges. You can find a hedge to accommodate any UK climate and soil type. If you’re seeking immediate and impressive impact, instant hedging units are the ultimate option. Our aim is to fulfil orders in 48 hours, we offer secure and punctual delivery…

When it comes to creating stylish, long-lasting outdoor spaces, RAK Ceramics is leading the way with its extensive collection of porcelain outdoor tiles—a superior alternative to traditional decking and stone slabs. Offering sleek aesthetics, unrivalled durability, and lowmaintenance luxury, RAK Ceramics’ outdoor porcelain range is redefining modern gardens, patios, and entertaining areas. Here are the top five reasons why porcelain is the ultimate choice for transforming outdoor spaces: • Zero Maintenance, Zero Hassle – Unlike timber decking, which requires regular staining and sealing, or natural stone that attracts moss and algae, porcelain tiles are stainresistant, non-porous, and incredibly easy to clean—no warping, no scrubbing, no fuss. • Slip-Resistant & Safe – Outdoor surfaces need to perform in all seasons. RAK Ceramics’ porcelain tiles feature slip-resistant finishes, making them a far…

What inspired you to start your business? My passion for the outdoors and desire to offer complete, expert garden care inspired me to start this business. I saw a gap in the market for high-quality horticultural management and wanted to create a service that nurtures gardens with the attention they deserve. What makes your approach unique? Our approach is rooted in people and personalisation. We recruit passionate, qualified gardeners who understand that no two gardens are alike. We tailor our care to each space, focusing not just on maintenance but on longterm garden development. From soil health to plant growth cycles, we manage every detail to ensure gardens thrive year-round. How do you keep gardens healthy all year? It’s all about horticultural expertise. We use correct watering techniques, nutrient balancing,…

A very common occurrence in outdoor lights installed in the UK is, you guessed it, condensation. As a lighting company, supplying professional outdoor lighting, we usually get asked various questions about condensation and how it can be prevented. Condensation is usually caused by heat generated by the lamp and a fluctuating temperature due to the cooler air outside creating moisture within part of the fitting. A common misconception is that this will always affect the life or function of the fitting and is caused by the product not being weatherproof. Most of the time, there’s no need to panic! It’s important to say that condensation doesn’t occur in ALL outdoor lights, which is why it can be worrying when noticed in a small number of fittings. This article will lay…

Since 1963, Civic Trees have been at the forefront of tree relocation throughout the UK, from importing the very first Vermeer tree spade into Europe, to designing and constructing the Newman Frame which is now used worldwide. Civic Trees are always looking to pioneer new techniques that aid the relocation of trees. Tree relocation is a concept that involves uprooting trees from one location and transplanting them to another. With current events surrounding environmental issues, relocating trees is even more important now than ever before. By relocating trees instead of cutting them down, we can preserve nature’s beauty while also promoting sustainability. We are proud of our reputation for efficient, cost effective and reliable tree relocation throughout the UK. You can be confident that through our exemplary commitment to staff…

: Turf equipment provider, Ferris, is working with Briggs & Stratton’s commercial brand Vanguard to power its new FRC7 slope mower, designed to tackle the toughest of mowing conditions. Paired with Vanguard’s state of the art engine, the innovative FRC7 redefines what’s possible when tackling steep hills and difficult terrains. The remote-controlled FRC7 is a low-profile slope mower designed to solve one of landscaping’s most persistent challenges: safely and effectively mowing steep terrain. Featuring a hybrid e-drive system and dual-direction mower deck, the FRC7 delivers consistent performance even on slopes as steep as 55 degrees. Briggs & Stratton’s long history of powering Ferris mowers made it a natural choice for the FRC7, with its commercial Vanguard gross 17,2kW* EFI horizontal shaft engine selected for seamless integration, size and, importantly, for…

STIHL is launching three new powerful and rugged professional battery-powered lawnmowers, perfectly suited to demanding lawn care in noise-sensitive areas. An extension to the AP System, the new lawn mowers are equivalent in performance to the well-respected 7 series petrol models. With a 48cm cutting width, the RMA 750 V is the smallest of the three new models. The RMA 756 V has a larger 54cm cutting width for faster working, while the RMA 7 RV is a dedicated mulching mower with no collection bag and a cutting width of 51cm. The 7 series mowers are the first to feature in STIHL’s exciting new Double AP Platform. Drawing power from two AP batteries, the mower utilises a 72 V motor to significantly increase the power output of the machine. This…

The highly anticipated first GroundsFest Academy event is set to take place on May 13, 2025, marking the beginning of a new era in free, hands-on education. The first session, hosted in partnership with DLF, titled ‘Seed Science,’ will be held at DLF Seeds’ UK head office in Inkberrow, Worcestershire. This CPD-accredited educational day is completely free to attend, thanks to GroundsFest’s commitment to reinvesting profits from the show back into the industry. The Academy aims to provide valuable training, helping attendees refine their skills, discover new techniques, and gain insights from leading experts. Who Can Attend? The GroundsFest Academy is designed for anyone working across the groundscare, landscaping, greenkeeping and sports turf sectors. Whether you’re an industry professional looking to deepen your knowledge or a newcomer keen to gain…