Here at Hedges Direct, we’re passionate about introducing our customers to reliable, experienced landscapers and garden designers in their local area. In order to pair up our customers with local planting professionals, we created The Hedging Network, which allows you to locate and choose from our database of approved horticultural experts. Having worked with these companies on previous projects, we’ve built up strong, trusting relationships and we’re confident in the knowledge that our quality products are in the hands of professionals. So, now when you see The Hedging Network’s ‘Approved’ badge, you too can be confident that the expertise and reliability demonstrated by your local landscaper or garden designer, sufficiently meets the standards expected of The Hedging Network.
This is the first article in our new ‘A focus on…’ series, which hopes to shine the spotlight on some of our Approved members. To kick start the series, we interviewed one of the founding members of The Hedging Network, Robert Hughes of Robert Hughes Garden Design. A two time RHS award winning Landscaper turned Garden Designer from Cardiff, who is currently living his dream working through a long list of design projects and show gardens. We managed to grab a few minutes with him, in between projects, to gain a snippet into his busy schedule –
- How did you get started in the industry?
I graduated in Product Design in 2003. I decided to enter landscaping industry after being inspired by the exciting, architectural and daring designs created by Diarmuid Gavin on Homefront in the garden around that time. From then on I gained experience by building gardens whilst studying at home in order to achieve my dream to become a Garden Designer. I established my company in 2008 and went on to win my first RHS Silver gilt medal with my first garden in 2009.
- What does a typical day look like?
Having only recently given up the tools, my days are now much more relaxed. After a cup of tea to start the day and get the brain ticking, I sit at my desk with the views up to the local mountain and let the creative juices flow. I’m usually juggling up to 10 projects at any one time so I will spend a few hours on one project and leave those ideas to incubate, I’ll then work on another project at a different stage and every now and again I’ll make a trip out to meet my clients to discuss the designs.
- Which of your projects have you most enjoyed working on, and why?
My most enjoyable project to date would have to be my recent RHS Cardiff show garden, ‘Office box’. I’m always working towards reaching my goal of exhibiting my own style, having my own personal edge. This garden is the closest garden I’ve created to date which really speaks of my personal taste and demonstrates my capabilities.
- What’s your number one gardening tip?
Well I’m more of a hard landscaping expert so I think I’ll focus on that. A common mistake most people make is using a jet wash to clean the algae from their patios. This opens up the stones pores and means that the patio will probably go green twice as quick next time around. There’s some products on the market which help prevent the growth of Algae. Solve the problem before it arises and keep on top of cleaning off any dust, dirt or leaves to keep those patios looking like new.
- What are you working on next?
Along with many other exciting projects I’m currently working alongside a local Architect firm to create a contemporary garden which will complement their bold statement of a reimagined 1960’s contemporary house in Penarth, South Wales. I am also currently seeking a sponsor to work alongside and start making plans towards exhibiting another show garden at one of next year’s prestigious RHS flower shows.
We hope you enjoyed this insight into his expertise. Stay tuned for the next installment in the series, coming in 2016 and head over to our Hedging Network to see what horticultural experts are in your area.
For landscapers and garden designers, if you would like to become an approved member of our reputable Hedging Network, please contact daniel.bentham@hedgesdirect.co.uk or give us a call on 01257 263873 and ask to speak to Daniel, Jenn or Kate in the marketing department.
