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ABOUT

Nicola-Oakey-english--country-style-garden-designer-rutland-lincolnshire-uk

Meet Nicola Oakey, winner of Pro Lanscaper’s ‘30 under 30’ award and 2 RHS medals.

Nicola’s experience in garden design is broad and achievement-filled. She completed a diploma in garden design in 2013 and then, two years later, created her first show garden at BBC Gardeners’ World Live for which she received an RHS Gold Medal.

 

In 2018 she was the only female finalist in the RHS Young Designer of the Year competition at RHS Tatton Park Flower Show. Her highly praised design was awarded a Silver-Gilt Medal and featured on BBC television. A year later, Nicola went on to win Pro Landscaper’s prestigious ’30 Under 30′ award, recognising her as one of the UK’s up-and-coming designers.

After spending 3 years working alongside designer and television presenter Adam Frost, she set up her own garden design studio in Rutland.

“For me, creating a garden is about creating little moments. A moment to enjoy a quiet cup of tea, or to watch birds from your kitchen window. Family times too; BBQs when the kids are chasing each other and there’s happy chatter from loved ones- all precious moments to cherish.”

 

Nicola’s love of nature, plants and rural landscapes stems from her upbringing in Devon. She spent countless hours drawing flowers from her parent’s garden and exploring the moorland and valleys around her childhood home.

 

This has given Nicola an admiration and fascination with the character and history of rural places. Her love of the countryside, traditional crafts and the natural world remain an integral influence in her design work, creating gardens that are rooted to their surroundings.

Nicola-as-a-child

CLIENT'S GARDENS

From an award winning show garden, to stunning English country gardens, Nicola's distinctive designs are packed with thoughtful detail and year-round beauty. 

  • Would Nicola produce a planting plan for my garden?
    Yes, Nicola can provide plans for gardens that need replanting rather than a complete redesign, subject to her availability and the size of the project. Please get in touch for more details.
  • What areas of the country does Nicola work in?
    Generally in Rutland and its surrounding counties (Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Cambridgeshire & Northamptonshire). Projects further afield are also considered, so please get in touch.
  • I’m planning a new extension to my home; at what stage should I bring in a garden designer?
    It is never too early to consult a designer – especially once the architect’s plans are available. Involving a garden designer early in the project helps ensure continuity across home and garden.
  • Can Nicola offer garden maintenance?
    Sadly not, but Nicola can supply detailed plant maintenance plans as a part of her comprehensive design package.
  • Does Nicola also build the gardens?
    No, but Nicola is happy to recommend local landscapers who she frequently works with on garden design projects. She is always available during the landscaping works to answer queries, or advise on any design alterations. Once the build-phase of the project is complete, Nicola usually then supplies and plants the garden.

JOIN US IN THE GARDEN

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