The 2025 RHS Chelsea Flower Show is underway, bringing together some of the biggest names in gardening and design. This year’s event features beautiful, creative, and eco-friendly garden ideas that are capturing attention.
Among the highlights so far are dogs stealing the spotlight on press day, the debut of The King’s Rose at the David Austin Roses stand, and a royal visit that included a touching tribute from David Beckham.
But what are the main trends standing out at this year’s show? We spoke with designers Pollyanna Wilkinson and Hazel Gardiner to find out.
1. Stylish “Crazy Paving” Makes a Comeback
Pollyanna Wilkinson points out a fresh take on “crazy paving” as a key trend. This isn’t the chunky, uneven paving from the 1970s. Instead, it’s a chic, modern look using reclaimed old stone laid in random, artistic patterns.
For example, the Boodles Radiance Garden, designed by Catherine MacDonald, features large circular stone pads leading visitors to a sleek platinum pavilion and seating area. Meanwhile, the British Red Cross ‘Here for Humanity’ Garden uses interlocking hexagonal stones that echo traditional alpine planters.
2. Interior Design Moves Outdoors
Floral designer Hazel Gardiner notes that gardens are borrowing heavily from interior design this year. With more people socializing outside, gardens now include stylish seating areas and greenhouses that feel like outdoor living rooms.
The Place To Read balcony garden by Viking combines old and new styles to create a cozy reading nook. Its brick wall resembles a library’s leather-bound books, while the furniture mixes classic and modern designs.
The Killick & Co ‘Save For A Rainy Day’ garden is built for family use and changing weather. It features a pergola with clever rainwater-catching troughs that feed a water feature during heavy rain, blending beauty with smart design.
3. Pink and Purple Flowers Everywhere
Pink and purple tones dominate the flower beds across the show. Hazel Gardiner highlights the popularity of dusky colors, especially in plants like the upright perennial thalictrum.
The Glasshouse Garden, designed by Jo Thompson, shows off muted pink roses such as ‘Tuscany Superb’ and ‘Emma Bridgewater’. The Avanade Intelligent Garden mixes pink and purple plants like Japanese wineberry and Chinese mahogany, creating a lush forest garden that supports biodiversity.
