The Crafted Garden – designed for a changing climate

The garden

Designed in response to a changing climate, the garden explores how woodland landscapes can adapt to warmer temperatures, heavier rainfall and longer periods of drought, while continuing to support people and wildlife. Tree led planting creates shade and enclosure, while landform and surface levels are shaped to slow, collect and retain water on site.

Movement through the space is gentle and intuitive. A spiralling form draws visitors inward toward a central clearing, inspired by the unfurling of fern fronds found on the woodland floor. This curved journey encourages a gradual transition from the outer woodland into the heart of the garden, where a wildlife pond and seating area provide a place for pause, reflection and connection with nature. Materials are used in their simplest form, allowing the garden to feel grounded, honest and closely connected to the surrounding landscape.

The design challenges the idea that resilient and meaningful gardens require large budgets or imported materials. Instead, it demonstrates how working with what already exists on site can lead to thoughtful, climate responsive design. Rubble, fallen timber, natural soil profiles and local materials are treated as assets rather than obstacles.

By applying woodland principles at a domestic scale, the garden shows how tree planting, shaded ground layers and water sensitive design can help cool and stabilise environments within towns, cities and private gardens.

The planting

Planting is predominantly trees, creating a shaded and enclosed central space reminiscent of mature woodland. Silver birch form the main canopy, supported by oak, field maple, rowan, crab apple and hazel to provide structure, diversity and seasonal interest.

The understorey is rich in ferns and woodland perennials, reflecting the layered planting found in natural woodland systems. Spring bulbs emerge early in the season, while ferns take prominence as the canopy closes, reinforcing the sense of enclosure and calm.

A bog planting zone supports species adapted to wetter ground and plays an active role in water management. Together, the planting supports biodiversity, enhances microclimates within the garden and reflects future UK growing conditions.

Sustainability

Sustainability is central to the design and construction of the garden. Materials are reused wherever possible, with an emphasis on locally sourced and minimally processed elements to reduce embodied carbon. No concrete is used in the construction. Structural elements are mechanically supported using timber stake systems and earth rammed posts.

The garden is designed to manage water naturally. Changes in level, mounds, swales and permeable surfaces slow rainfall and allow it to be absorbed into the landscape rather than discharged. A dedicated bog planting area provides relief during periods of excessive rainfall while supporting biodiversity.

Following the exhibition, the garden will be relocated and reconstructed within a wider woodland setting for a private landowner who has sponsored the project. This allows the garden to continue as a living landscape and reinforces a circular, low waste approach to garden making.

The designer – Jamie Dobinson

Crafted Landscapes is a landscape and garden design practice led by Jamie Dobinson, rooted in a deep respect for nature, craftsmanship and place. Jamie’s work is shaped by a belief in the restorative power of landscapes and the importance of creating outdoor spaces that allow people to slow down and reconnect with their surroundings.

Strongly influenced by natural patterns, the practice embraces organic forms, raw materials and planting schemes that respond sensitively to site, climate, and ecology. Sustainability, biodiversity and long term resilience underpin every project. Resourcefulness sits at the heart of the practice, with materials often reused, upcycled or repurposed from site. The result is gardens that feel calm, timeless, and deeply connected to their environment.

Jamie says, “Designing this garden for the Festival has been a valuable learning experience. Attending the RHS Designer Day was both inspiring and encouraging. Malvern offers the opportunity to connect with others who share a genuine passion for gardens and landscapes, from first time entrants to experienced designers. The exchange of ideas and the sense of community are among the most rewarding aspects of taking part.”