28/04/2026
We are deeply saddened by the news that our longtime collaborator and friend Nigel Dunnett has passed away.
Our sincere condolences to Nigel’s family and loved ones. He was a horticultural genius and will be sorely missed.
For more than 20 years he has taught and inspired so many of our team with his visionary approach to planting and landscape design.
We worked with Nigel to bring some of his amazing innovations to life, including Pictorial Meadows, and applying them to urban landscapes here in the Manor Castle ward in Sheffield, then the Olympic Park, and later at the Tower of London Superbloom and beyond.
We will miss Nigel popping up to our site with a group of students or international visitors, sometimes for a chat and lunch at the Rhubarb Shed Café.
Looking back, it feels very poignant to have been able to host the launch of the second edition of ‘The Dynamic Landscape’ last year with his close friend James Hitchmough, colleague Helen Hoyle and upcoming horticulturalist Owen Hayman. He talked then of handing over the baton to the next generation.
Nigel was a pioneer, leading the way in designing beautiful and resilient urban landscapes which are good for people, nature and the economy. We were privileged to have worked alongside him. Without Nigel, we would not be the organisation we are today, and for this we are truly grateful.
Rest in peace Nigel. Your legacy will live on in our hearts, our work and our landscapes.