The atmosphere and inspiration for the garden has been drawn from the paintings of Cedric Morris and the plants collected and bred by Cedric at his garden at Benton End, Hadleigh. Cedric became famous for both breeding and painting bearded iris, growing around 1000 new seedlings each year and producing at least 90 named varieties.

Climbers supported by reclaimed timber and cordage frame views into and through the garden. Saplings, grasses, and characterful trees hint at semi-abandonment, while the watercolour-like colours (plums, mauves, olive yellow, creamy browns) create a distinctive palette.

The sixteenth century surroundings at Benton End, constructed using traditional techniques, have provided inspiration for the contemporary use of locally sourced, sustainable materials.