The entrance to the garden is reminiscent of the flooded base of a rejuvenated quarry landscape. The water level rises and falls, revealing a monolith slate stepping stone creating a bridge to the 2030 vision of no new HIV cases. The tombstone, which once represented death and fear, is now a crossing into the garden, with the destination being a secluded terrace in which to enjoy a positive, hopeful future together.
Granite boulders are scattered through the garden, inspired by those found in the slate landscapes of North Wales.
One of these boulders balances precariously from the raised bed on the boundary, looking as though it is about to fall. Beneath it, fragile sticks give the illusion they are supporting the weight of the boulder – an analogy for those lost to HIV and those who have played a role in supporting the response to the virus.
Matthew is an award-winning garden designer having designed a diverse range of exciting landscapes and show gardens. Matthew returns to Chelsea ten years since his debut on main avenue in 2014.