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.
Copyright Nicola Oakey 2023