As part of the RHS Level 4 Diploma in Horticultural Practice, students at RHS Garden Wisley design and build a community garden for a local organisation each year. We’re thrilled to announce that Lucy Stephens’ garden, The Glade, has been chosen as the winning design for 2025 and will be brought to life at Dose of Nature’s Guildford site at the National Trust’s Dapdune Wharf. 

Dose of Nature helps people reconnect with nature to boost their wellbeing and find a sense of calm, balance, and connection. This new garden will become a central part of our programme in Guildford, offering a tranquil and inspiring space for clients to explore, reflect, and take part in gentle outdoor activities. 

Designed with soft curves and naturalistic planting, The Glade evokes the peacefulness of a woodland clearing — a place of sanctuary and light. Lucy’s beautiful hand-drawn illustrations helped bring the design vividly to life, capturing the garden’s flow and feel. The space will feature a yoga lawn, sensory planting, a craft gazebo, and areas for both quiet reflection and social connection. 

“We were inspired by all the designs but decided on The Glade because the imagery of a light clearing in the dark resonated with us and our work. Our clients will be able to seek refuge and peace here, and access our group activities in a truly restorative setting.” – Dr Cat Huckle, Lead Psychologist, Dose of Nature 

Lucy and her fellow students presented their concepts to a panel of community representatives. The Glade stood out for its accessibility, emotional resonance, and stunning visual interpretation. 

"I am so excited to have my design for Dose of Nature chosen! Being a gardener, I see first-hand how restorative, and healing nature can be, and I am honoured that my design will be used to bring this to others through the wonderful work that Dose of Nature carries out. It will be a dream come true to see my plan come to life!" Level 4 Diploma in Horticultural Practice student, Lucy Stephens 

The build will take place at the end of June, led by Lucy alongside landscape tutor David Wallbridge and the RHS Level 4 cohort. We’re so grateful to the RHS for this inspiring collaboration and can’t wait to see Lucy’s vision take shape on the ground.