St James’s Piccadilly to ‘Imagine the World to be Different’

The show garden pays homage to the revitalising influence of urban green spaces, symbolising a message of hope and recovery while igniting the imagination of  future generations to envision a different world.  Upon entering through an archway reminiscent of the proposed gateways leading to the churchyard at St James's Piccadilly, visitors will step into a contemplative haven. Here, nature takes centre stage with a lush, biodiverse planting scheme.

This tranquil, introspective space uplifts the spirit, serving as a sanctuary for urban dwellers and city wildlife. It beckons visitors to sit, stroll, and immerse themselves in the sensory delights of dappled shade, multi-layered verdant landscapes, and soothing water features. The garden proudly exhibits a diverse selection of climate-resilient trees, offering a place of restoration for those searching for peace and inspiration.

A circular, sculptural stone counselling hut is thoughtfully placed among the foliage, providing a secure setting for exchanging ideas and shared experiences.

As a nod to the ambience of St James's, the ‘borrowed’ plane trees adorning the Chelsea show garden are reminiscent of the trees in today’s church garden, inviting people to unite and nurture the tradition of 'conversations under trees.’ It celebrates the significance of urban 'pocket parks' in London and other cities, often connected with historic churchyards, some bearing the scars of wartime bombing yet refusing to yield to destruction. These spaces have been reimagined as biodiverse and slightly eclectic garden sanctuaries, representing a harmonious blend of history and ecological vibrancy.

The garden's inspiration extends to the resilient ‘pioneer plants’ that found a foothold in the ruins of St James’s after wartime bombings. These seeds, carried by the wind, represented new hope and growth. Seven such species will feature in the garden, serving as a reminder of nature's resilience and its capacity for regeneration.

The garden will relocate to St James's Piccadilly to create a welcoming and inclusive space for the congregation, local population and visitors, where nature has its proper place in the city, with contemplative green space in the heart of everyday life. St James’s is a historic church looking to the future, advocating for social justice and empowering communities. It is a thoughtful, inclusive, creative space open to all.

Plant Lists

Trees

Shrubs

Ferns

Herbaceous plants

Bulbs

Climbers and Hedge