RHS Chelsea Flower Show

18 - 22 May 2027

Fresh Gardens 2017

Inland Homes: Beneath a Mexican Sky

Awards

  • Silver-gilt medal winner

From the Show

Designed by:
Manoj Malde
Sponsored by:
Inland Homes Plc
  • The large steps are made with a 2-3mm layer of micro-cement over a powder-coated steel frame - making them lightweight yet very strong
  • The microcement contains zinc resin which when polished gives a subltle sheen - an effect repeated in the pool
  • A truly global garden, Beneath a Mexican Sky is featuring on the world service
  • The biggest challenge for the team was getting the steps into place - exact placement was needed to stop them moving when stepped on
  • Manoj Malde's favourite plant is the Kalanchoe beharensis - a beautifully sculptured plant with tactile fleshy leaves, giving subtle colour and interest to the garden

At the garden

Beneath a Mexican Sky is inspired by the work of Mexican Modernist architect Luis Barragan. Colour-washed walls in tints of clementine, coral and cappuccino provide a dramatic backdrop to the planting scheme, which is offset by concrete slabs floating across a large aquamarine pool. Pouring water creates a soothing sound at the edge of the seating area. The copper wire sculpture by Rupert Till captures Barragan’s love of horses.

The garden applies a new thought process, using drought-tolerant plants that merge Mediterranean with country cottage planting. Multi-stem trees provide structure in the garden. Agaves provide rhythm and softer drought-tolerant herbaceous planting breathes beauty into the space.

Mediterranean plants are of personal interest to Manoj and he is excited to be showing Kalanchoe beharensis.