Exhibitors
Show Gardens
Crisis
The Crisis Garden
Designer: Ana Sanchez-Martin
Click here to view a panorama of this garden.
To view a hi-res version of the image click on the image
This garden, from homelessness charity Crisis, showcases the art and horticultural work from homeless members of Skylight, a centre run by the charity where homeless people can take part in a range of activities.
The garden has a theme of hope and transformation, represented in the focal point of a Phoenix mosaic, built by homeless artists, which is reflected in a raised pond. The use of plants, suitable for both light and shade conditions represents the progression of homeless people as they take part in activities, such as gardening, at Crisis.
After the show the garden will be rebuilt next to Christ Church, the landmark church designed by Nicholas Hawkesmore in Spitalfields, East London, where it will be maintained by homeless members of the Skylight centre.
The garden’s design reflects its future location and provides a peaceful haven for the charity’s homeless members to relax and build their confidence through working on the garden. The layout follows a cross shape and incorporates areas for people to sit and pause and reflect.
The design is formal with topiary used to reflect the architecture of the church. The choice of plants also takes into account the future location which has areas of both sun and shade. Green dominates followed by red, the colour of both Crisis and the Phoenix mosaic. Other colours are faded in gradually with upright feathery grasses and perennials echoing the spire and the Phoenix’s feathers in contrast with the architectural foliage and topiary.