Meet Lilly-Joan Richardson, A South West London Garden Designer With A Beautiful Portfolio Of Work

From concept to completion, Lilly-Joan Richardson is all about engineering seamless transitions from tired outdoors spaces to elegant and stylish gardens.  Encapsulating elegance through design harmony, functionality, plant selection and hiring high quality installation teams, Lilly-Joan has forged a reputation for creating wonderful spaces for her discerning clients.

Anna Roochove from Arbour Landscape Solutions met with Lilly-Joan to discover the secrets to her success.

Q: What inspired you to become a garden designer?

A: I have always been passionate about design and I love spending time outdoors. So rather than pursuing a career in interior designs, I chose to study garden design so that I could blend both of my main interests.

Q: How long have you been in practice?

A: I have been practicing since 2001 - so over two decades now.

Q: Where did you train?

A: I completed a two-year apprenticeship at Laurenz von Ehren, a highly esteemed tree nursery in Germany. Following that, I earned a degree in mechanical drawing, which included electrical and architectural plans (also in Germany). Afterwards I moved to London to study Garden Design at Middlesex University.
 

Courtyard Garden in Clapham, London

Q: Which award winning Chelsea Flower Show gardens inspire you?

A: I loved the “Forest Bathing” garden design by Ula Maria - it was just stunning.

Q: Where do you gain inspiration for your garden designs?

A: I love travelling and always find inspiration when exploring a new country or city.

Q: Which trade shows do you like to attend?

A: Maison & Objet and the Chelsea Flower Show are my favourites.

Q: Do you always tend to work with the same landscaper to install your gardens?

A: Yes, I have a very good relationship with The Garden Builders who build most of my gardens. 

Q: Tulips or grasses? Which are your favourites and why?

A: I love grasses for their year-round appeal - lush and vibrant in the summer, yet beautifully sculptural in the winter.

Q: What advice would you offer to newly qualified garden designers?

A: I gained most of my knowledge working for a Garden Design company before starting my own business. It’s invaluable to have others to discuss ideas with and work through designs early on in the process.

Q: In one sentence, how would you encapsulate the transformative power of gardens?

A: Gardens have the power to transform spaces and minds, offering a sanctuary for relaxation, creativity, and connection to nature.

Q: Tell us about your business, what areas of the country do you cover?

A: I can work anywhere, but mainly cover South-West London and surroundings.

Q: Do you specify the materials for your designs?

A: Yes, this is a key part of my approach to ensuing the project meets expectations. The choice of materials and products is crucial to achieving the desired look.

Thankyou Lilly-Joan for sharing your thoughts and experiences with the Arbour Landscape Solutions Team. For any readers wishing to learn more about Lilly-Joan’s work, you’ll find an extensive portfolio on her website at https://www.lillyjoanrichardson.com

If you would like to see your own business featured as a Client Spotlight, we'd love to hear from you. Please  contact [email protected] for an informal chat.

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