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The Silk Road Garden
Chengdu, capital of the ancient Chinese Shu kingdom, and since ancient times known as ‘the abundant land’ thanks to its fertile soil and favourable climate.
The form of the garden combined architectural and planting design in a conceptual depiction of the different landscape features of Chengdu and the surrounding Sichuan Province. In contrasting planting environments, it showcased some of the many garden plants familiar in the West that have Chinese origins.
At the heart of the garden the symbol of the 3,000 year old Sun and Immortal Bird legend, the logo of Chengdu City and Chinese Cultural Heritage, lay on a central theatrical plaza. A ‘Silk Road’ path ran the length of the garden, celebrating the commercial, cultural and horticultural legacy of the historic Silk Road trade route, and the Su-Embroidery masters of Chengdu.
Further design input included contributions from art students and school children who produced art installation elements and an insect hotel, reflecting the important role of Chengdu in conservation including the Giant Panda.
The garden was Laurie Chetwood and landscape architect Patrick Collins’ fourth collaboration on the Triangle Site at the Chelsea Flower Show.
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impact
- RHS Chelsea Flower Show Garden award-winning show garden
- Design and planting reflect the city’s ancient sun and immortal bird legends
- Combines architectural and planting design
- Design input from art students and schools
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