The John King Garden at Hampton Court Flower Show – was an amazing opportunity that has allowed us to significantly raise awareness of the John King Brain Tumour Foundation, bringing on board more supporters of our valuable work and also highlighting the health benefits of having well-designed gardens at a hospital which provide restorative and pleasant nature views which reduce stress and improve clinical outcomes
The John King Brain Tumour Foundation Garden is a hospital garden providing space for patients and hospital staff to be immersed in nature. It is a relaxed environment designed to aid recovery, hold difficult conversations and a place to relax and reflect. This small garden demonstrates how the charity is transforming areas of grey, concrete hospital rooftops into hidden sanctuaries for people and wildlife to enjoy.
At the heart of the garden, a sculpture inspired by a mighty English oak by sculptor Emma Rodgers symbolises strength, wisdom, nurturing and healing. Its leaf canopy is made from hands applauding the NHS.
Under a canopy of dappled shade provided by birch trees are secluded spaces in which to sit surrounded by raised planters filled with scented and colourful plants in a pastel colour palette.
The garden is now being recycled to the McKissock Ward Roof Garden at St George’s Hospital which our charity maintains for patients, their families and staff to enjoy.
You can hear from Emma Rodgers about her inspiration for the ‘Ovation Tree’ and from our garden designer Rhiannon Williams about her inspirational design along with our Patron and renowned Neurosurgeon Henry Marsh CBE about the health benefits of hospital gardens.
The garden was designed by and built by::
Tony Woods, Rhiannon Williams from Garden Club London
Sponsored by:
John King Brain Tumour Foundation, Garden Club London, Emma Rodgers, Royal Warrant Holders Association Charity Fund, Champion Timbers, Creepers, Europlanters, Landscapeplus, London Stone, ICA Electrical, Indian Ocean, Kings Fine Food and Project21forlife.
