Chelsea Flower Show 2019

The Dubai Majlis Garden.

Chelsea Flower Show

A breathtaking creation by Thomas Hoblyn, showcased at the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show 2019 in London. This stunning garden draws its inspiration from the sculptural beauty of arid landscapes, taking visitors on a mesmerising journey through windblown sand dunes, fluvial eroded rock formations, man-made hillside terraces, and meticulously curated topiary-like plants. Generously sponsored by Princess Haya bint Hussein, her sponsorship of the garden was a testament to her dedication to education, community, and the nurturing of young minds. It was an opportunity to bridge the gap between the world of horticulture and the eager young learners, fostering a sense of wonder and appreciation for the natural world.

The Dubai Majlis Garden is a testament to Thomas Hoblyn’s artistry and his ability to transform nature into a living masterpiece. With a palette dominated by muted oranges and blues, the garden’s planting scheme pays homage to the intricate sculptural allure found in arid landscapes. As you explore the garden, you encounter the graceful presence of windblown germander, its delicate foliage swaying in the breeze, and tapestry-like carpets of thymes that hug the rocky terrain, evoking a sense of wonder and tranquility.

One of the defining features of the Dubai Majlis Garden at Chelsea Flower Show is its ingenious water source, expertly integrated into the landscape design. This water source meanders like a lifeline, seemingly connecting to an oasis-like pond. It gracefully finds its way around obstacles, imbuing life into the arid surroundings and nourishing the carefully selected plants. The juxtaposition of the arid landscape with the vibrant presence of water creates a harmonious oasis, where life flourishes against all odds.

The Princess’s vision is skilfully portrayed by world renowned sculptor Michael Speller with the bronze work – Flow.

Plant selection

The key plant selections in this garden are a testament to Thomas Hoblyn’s meticulous attention to detail and his deep understanding of how to create an immersive and evocative landscape. The Punica Granatum, with its vivid red-orange blossoms and distinctive fruit, stands as a symbol of abundance and vitality. The Ziziphus Jujuba, known for its resilience in arid conditions, adds to the garden’s narrative of endurance and adaptation. Parrotia Persica, with its striking bark and elegant form, adds a layer of visual interest, while the Euphorbia Dendroides contributes a touch of architectural elegance to the landscape. Teucrium Fruticans, with its silvery foliage and fragrant flowers, enhances the sensory experience of the garden, inviting visitors to explore further. The Myrtus Communis, with its evergreen leaves and aromatic fragrance, adds a timeless quality to the garden, evoking a sense of permanence amidst the ever-changing natural world.

The Dubai Majlis Garden garnered praise and acclaim from critics and experts in the field at Chelsea Flower Show. Robin Lane Fox of The Financial Times hailed it as a winner, recognizing its extraordinary design and artistic merit. Furthermore, the garden was awarded the prestigious RHS Chelsea Silver Gilt Medal, a testament to its exceptional quality and impact.

‘The Dubai Majlis Garden was one of my winners’  – Robin Lane Fox, The Financial Times

 RHS Chelsea Silver Gilt Medal