Why Young Designer William Scholey is One to Watch

Image: Will Scholey at Tatton Park Flower Show 2022

Off the back of his win at Tatton Park Flower Show for Young Designer of the Year, William Scholey has given us at J. Parker's an insight into his inspiration as an up-and-coming designer within the industry! 

His 'Working from Home Garden' wowed the judges and thousands of visitors at Tatton this year, and his work certainly doesn't stop there. From his early emergence into the industry to his newest win at Tatton, we talk all things gardening with one of the UK's youngest award-winning garden designers!

Have you always wanted to be a gardener? What was your journey to get to where you are today? 

Growing up in rural Northamptonshire meant my connection to the outdoors was almost inevitable. I have always had a fascination with birds, to the extent of driving miles to try and spot and identify different species, and quickly discovered the importance of creating habitats for struggling species. I knew I needed to be doing something outdoors and something that benefited the environment.

I was also really interested in Art at school, so when I found out I could combine the two at university by studying Horticulture and garden design, I felt that my path was set. 

Congratulations on winning the RHS Young Designer of the Year award this year! What was your inspiration for The Working from Home Garden?

Thank you very much.

The initial inspiration for the garden came from a day I spent working from home and wishing I could be immersed in an inspiring setting looking out on wildlife and naturalistic planting. I find a lot of inspiration can be found from the natural landscape and enjoy recreating the atmosphere, texture and structure using cultivated species that create a similar effect.

What is your process for designing and re-imagining gardens?

I think it’s really important to appreciate the setting, location and history of the area; this often affects the type of materials used and how I believe the garden should be designed. I find initial sketches are crucial to designing the layout of the garden and how you want it to naturally flow. I tend to sit in the space, to pick up on the atmosphere and discover enticing areas the eye is naturally drawn to.

I also consider declining species in the surrounding area, then focus on providing habitats using native species of plants.


Image: Will Scholey's 'Working from Home' Display at Tatton Park Flower Show 2022

As someone new to garden design, what would you say is your favourite plant or bloom this year?

It would probably be polygonatum verticillatum due to its upright structure, stunning foliage, and discreet but noticeable flowers.

What’s your favourite gardening trend that you love to implement in client designs?

I’m really happy that people seem to be leaning towards more ‘wild’ gardens. We’re finally getting out of the habit of insisting on manicured lawns and perfect topiary and are now celebrating seed heads and grasses. As well as being better for wildlife, I find this style more engaging and immersive.

Where do you draw inspiration for your garden designs?

I take a lot of inspiration from the natural world and local environment; for the garden to fit into the space and to look like it belongs. I’m also heavily influenced by the local materials and architecture, subtly mimicking existing angles and shapes to ensure the garden fits within its surroundings.

What advice would you give to someone who’s looking to create a formal display in their own back garden?

I’m yet to be asked to design a formal garden, but, due to it being a timeless style, I would start by taking inspiration from stately homes. I consider the formality to be in the visual structure of the style, so before embarking on the planting plan I would make sure that the structure of the garden meets the brief. This would then allow for originality with planting style while still conforming to formality.

Image: Front view of the 'Working from Home' garden display

Out of all the displays you’ve designed so far, which is your favourite?

All of my designs have been significant in forming my style, and I consider my most recent project, the Working from Home Garden, a credit to my experiences from former designs. Therefore, I would currently consider it my favourite. 


Do you have any upcoming projects or plans for your career that you’d like to shout about?

I have a really exciting project in Norfolk for an existing client’s holiday home; the garden includes a lot of native species and a variety of natural stone.

And finally, do you have any advice for young designers like yourself who want to make their way into the gardening world?

Horticulture is a really welcoming community, so surrounding yourself with like-minded people, such as designers that have the same ethos as yourself, can be very motivating. If you fancy having a go at the RHS Young Designer of the Year Competition, applications are now open. I couldn’t recommend it enough.

William Scholey is certainly an act to watch, with his work getting the attention of horticultural lovers across the country! If you want to see more of his work, you can visit his website here or follow him on Instagram!