Trussell’s Together Garden

The garden

This garden is inspired by the way food banks, and the communities that support them, come together to help those on the lowest incomes. It’s a powerful reminder that when each of us plays our part, we can end hunger together. The theme of togetherness is woven throughout the garden’s design: intersecting paths, a shared seating area, and a reciprocal frame structure made from individual timbers interlaced for strength and stability. These elements represent how communities can hold each other up and come together to create a stronger whole.

At the heart of the garden, a water feature offers a quiet space for reflection and connection. It can be drained to reveal additional seating, unlocking the potential for more people to gather and share the space.

The planting scheme celebrates diversity and collaboration. Combinations of bright, energetic plants bring momentum and vibrancy, while softer woodland-edge species introduce calm and balance. Together, they reinforce that sense of togetherness and show what’s possible when we all play our part to end hunger.

Key plants

The garden’s planting scheme explores engaging combinations of colour and texture, guided by colour theory to create both contrast and harmony. Vivid red oranges are paired with calming blue-greens, and soft pastels  contrast with deeper tones, reflecting Trussell’s message of diverse elements coming together to create a stronger whole. Each plant is carefully chosen to complement others, forming a dynamic, harmonious garden that celebrates the power of collaboration.

• Iris ‘Strathmore’ – chosen for its bold colour and striking form, creating eye-catching focal points
• Euphorbia ceratocarpa – adds architectural structure and contrast within the planting scheme
• Betula ‘Fascination’ – provides multi-stemmed visual interest and distinctive bark texture
• Cerinthe major ‘Purpurascens’ – selected for its rich colour and unique form, contributing to the dynamic palette
• Baptisia ‘Purple Smoke’ – chosen for its dramatic foliage and flower spikes, adding depth and seasonal interest. As a member of the Fabaceae family, it enriches the soil with nitrogen while also adding structure and visual impact

Plants supplier: Provender Nurseries.

Sustainability notes

The garden is built using sustainable construction methods, including non-cementitious paving foundations that allow for full reuse, sustainably sourced timber for the frame and benches, and CAD/CNC fabrication to ensure precision and minimise material waste.

The designer – Rob Hardy

“Our garden makes a powerful statement – that when people come together, we can end hunger. Created in partnership with Trussell, it’s a space for both community gatherings and quiet, intimate conversations. It unites people in their shared belief that change is possible - a place where beauty meets purpose.,” Rob Hardy.

Rob began his career working alongside his father in private gardens across Yorkshire before moving into project management. In his 30s, he returned to his first love, garden design, and founded Rob Hardy & Co to bring together a collaborative team of designers. With over 20 years of professional experience spanning garden design, horticulture and project management, Rob combines confident creativity with plant knowledge. His background in Fine Art, horticultural training at Askham Bryan, and a Garden Design degree from the Northern School of Garden Design give him a distinctive design perspective. His award-winning gardens are known for their balance of colour, form and structure, spaces that are visually striking, practical and welcoming, designed to evolve with the lives of those who use them.

Hear from the charity – Trussell

“Last year, food banks in the Trussell community provided nearly 3 million parcels for people facing hardship. That's over 50% more than the same period five years ago. It's not right that anyone faces hunger in the UK – we should all have enough money for the essentials. The garden tells the story of how, together, we can end hunger in the UK with everyone playing their part.”

Garden legacy

The garden is being relocated to Strabane Foodbank, part of the Trussell community in Northern Ireland.