About the Border
Reflective Memories is a gentle, sensory border designed to spark nostalgia and remind visitors of gardens they once knew or places they once loved. Filled with traditional, familiar plants chosen for year‑round interest, it invites people to engage every sense, touch, scent, sound and sight. A simple chair set beneath a silver birch offers a protected, calming spot to pause and reflect. The warm bark of the acer, the soft rustle of bamboo and the scent of herbs come together to create a comforting sense of place. Inspired by Paul Nicholson’s work in a retirement village and care home, the garden honours the power of plants to trigger memories, bring joy and offer quiet moments of peace.
Design Inspiration and Purpose
The border is shaped by Paul Nicholson’s experiences working in a retirement village, where residents, including those living with dementia, find comfort and recognition in plants from their past. It also pays tribute to memories of his Nan and the sense of family and connection that gardens can hold. Paul is influenced by the stories and approach of gardener Adam Frost, whose reflections mirror many of Paul’s own family experiences. The purpose of the design is simple: to create a space that feels familiar, heartfelt and lasting, where visitors can rediscover plants that mean something to them and enjoy a moment of quiet remembrance.
Sustainability
Recycling and upcycling are at the heart of this border. From reusing a once‑loved indoor chair to incorporating roasted coffee bean shells in the planting inlet, Paul shows how small, thoughtful choices can reduce waste. After the show, the border will be relocated to Moat Park Retirement Village and Care Home in Essex, giving residents long‑term access to a restorative outdoor space. Visitors are encouraged to adopt simple sustainable habits, such as repurposing old items, choosing long‑lasting plants and recycling materials, to create meaningful outdoor spaces with minimal impact.
Planting
Planting focuses on traditional, comforting species that evoke memory and offer sensory value. Two key specimen trees anchor the space:
- Acer griseum – chosen for its peeling bark, strong shape and year‑round interest
- Betula utilis ‘Jacquemontii’ – selected for its striking white bark and dappled shade
Other featured plants include:
- Forget‑me‑nots – symbolising memory and continuity
- Fargesia nitida ‘Black Pearl’ – adding sound and movement
- Eucalyptus ‘France Bleu’ – offering texture, scent and touch
Unsung heroes like digitalis, primula vulgaris and forget‑me‑nots are chosen for their ability to self‑seed and return year after year, quietly anchoring the garden in familiarity. Edible elements such as bay, rosemary, sage and violas add practical charm. Around 32 plants make up the final design.
About the Designer
Paul Nicholson has spent over 22 years working as a landscape gardener in his family’s business before moving into a full‑time gardening role at a large retirement village. Recently, he began formal garden design training to expand his practice. Paul’s background gives him a grounded, hands‑on understanding of plants and a deep respect for the stories gardens can hold. His design style is rooted in traditional planting, emotional connection and creating spaces that feel genuine, welcoming and personal.
What are the advantages of designing a garden at the Festival?
For Paul, designing a show garden is a chance to demonstrate what he can create and take the next step in his career. Having visited RHS shows for many years, he was encouraged by friends and family to finally “give it a go”. The opportunity allows him to showcase his skills, test his ideas, and share a heartfelt, memory‑led design with a wider audience. It represents both professional growth and the fulfilment of a long‑held personal ambition.
Supporters
