Exhibitors
Back-to-back Gardens
Nacro
New Leaf
Designers: Alan Nugent & Simon McClaren (Nugent Landscapes)
Sponsors: Manchester in Bloom, Mel Kirby
Contractor: Alan Nugent (Nugent Landscapes)
Click on the image to view a hi-res version
Nacro provides support to people who have homelessness issues and histories of offending and substance abuse. The New Leaf garden is a follow-on project from last year’s Choose Life garden.
During an art session, service users were asked to express how they envisaged a garden that represents independent living. The New Leaf garden reflects the transition from supported accommodation to independence.
The water feature encapsulates new life in the form of a sculptured egg. Water flows from the base of the egg up through the top and over the sides, representing energy.
Seating gives an opportunity to relax and reflect on the journey taken. On the wall, there is a mosaic of a phoenix rising from the ashes, taking the snake (which symbolises temptations and old habits). At the far end, there is a representation of an urban terraced house, symbolising independent living.
The planting represents freedom, peace and the return of the senses. Soft grasses give a feeling of calm and tranquillity, alongside aromatic healing plants to promote well-being.