Harborne Botanics Award-Winning Show Garden
The Challenge
As part of BBC Gardeners’ World Live 2019, Toby set out to design a show garden that reflected both contemporary lifestyle and ecological awareness. The brief called for a space that felt both refined and relaxed, appealing to visitors as a modern retreat that worked in harmony with nature.
The Solution
Toby created Harborne Botanics, a garden that balanced strong geometric shapes with soft, naturalistic planting. Reclaimed materials like weathered brick were paired with sleek corten steel and elegant timber to create a tactile contrast. Lush, pollinator-friendly plants softened the hard edges, while the layout invited visitors to explore and linger.
The Result
The garden was awarded a prestigious Silver Merit, with judges praising its thoughtful design, textural balance, and ecological sensitivity. Visitors were drawn to its immersive feel—a garden that felt real and liveable, not just decorative. It marked a defining moment in Toby’s career and solidified his reputation for blending modern design with sustainable values.