Making Shapes At The RHS Chelsea Flower Show

The RHS Chelsea Flower Show is back, and some of this year’s gardens are truly making shapes—quite literally. Symmetry and geometry are key themes, with several designers using striking forms to create harmony and visual impact. Let’s explore how shapes like hexagons and circles are defining this year’s standout displays.

Hexagons

The British Red Cross ‘Here for Humanity’ Garden
Designed by John Warland and Tom Bannister, this impactful garden pays tribute to Henri Dunant, the Swiss founder of the British Red Cross, and the volunteers who have supported those in need for over 150 years. The alpine-style rock garden represents the dramatic Swiss Alps that surround Geneva, where the Convention of Human Rights was established.

The space is dominated by bold hexagonal structures—manmade yet clearly inspired by nature. Hexagons, which appear in beehives and the Giant’s Causeway, give the garden a strong, organic feel. The motif continues with hexagonal stepping stones leading across a water feature, creating a visually compelling and cohesive design.

Making Life Better with Bees
This cheerful balcony garden, created by the Humble-bee Gardeners, is a vivid celebration of biodiversity and the crucial relationship between people, bees, and nature. Despite its small footprint, it demonstrates how urban spaces—even balconies—can become sanctuaries for pollinators.

Drawing inspiration from African colours and traditional beekeeping methods, the garden features bold hexagonal patterns reminiscent of honeycombs. A fallen oak log reflects how hives are created in different cultures, while a living wall encourages solitary bees to nest. Repurposed barrels and beehives are cleverly integrated to show that sustainability and style can go hand in hand. It’s a vibrant, welcoming space for both humans and wildlife.

Circles

The Boodles ‘Raindance’ Garden
Designed by Dr Catherine MacDonald, this elegant garden is inspired by the natural interaction between water and stone. Circular elements are central to the design, starting with a gently sloping zinc pavilion roof that enhances the sound of falling rain. This theme continues in the vertical metalwork, which channels rainwater into the garden’s network of rills.

The paving consists of large circular slabs, interspersed with metallic water features that contribute to the calm, reflective atmosphere. The garden’s cool, grey palette is softened with ginkgo trees and ferns, creating a peaceful and meditative retreat.

The Songbird Survival Garden
Designed by Nicola Oakley, this garden is a playful, educational space aimed at children. At its heart stands a large birdhouse-inspired den with circular windows. These feature ironwork illustrations highlighting the threats faced by songbirds in today’s environment.

The layout of the garden mirrors the natural foraging behaviour of birds, with a focus on movement between shelter and food sources. A shallow, circular pond offers a safe spot for birds to bathe and drink, while logs and planting provide additional protection and nesting opportunities. The circular theme continues throughout, creating a gentle, nature-led space that’s both fun and functional.

For more information on Making Shapes At The RHS Chelsea Flower Show talk to Chilstone Architectural Stone & Garden Ornaments