High-flying Writtle College alumnus named Garden Designer of the Year 2014 at Grand Designs Live!

Liam, who graduated last year from Writtle College with a BSc (Hons) Landscape & Garden Design and now runs his own business in Brentwood, was given his award by designer and television presenter Kevin McLeod at the London Excel show!

The 22-year-old, who has worked on high-end gardens through his business Liam George Sapsford Designs, said: "Winning Grand Designs Garden Designer of the Year is the greatest thing I have achieved. For Kevin McCloud to say that he has never seen anything like this before about my design is a trophy in itself.

“Becoming part of the show has given me access to a wide variety of projects over the country, residential or commercial. To win against such worthy competitors makes me feel very proud. It has been such a fantastic journey so far and I can't wait to see what the rest of the year brings.”

Liam’s passion for garden design was born from a fascination with bonding science and art to create the perfect outdoor space.

He credited Writtle College with setting him up in his chosen career: “I would like to say how much Writtle College has guided me to getting this far. What I learnt at Writtle has not only given me great design qualities but taught me about the business aspects of the garden and design industry.

“I'm so glad I chose this profession and, being that Writtle College was just down the road, it was an obvious choice to study there. I'm looking forward to seeing more bright future students graduating from the Landscape Architecture and Garden Design course. I wouldn't be Grand Designs Garden Designer of the Year if it wasn't for the highly diverse and qualified lecturers at Writtle College.”

Liam was one of only four designers shortlisted in the competition, which is in its second year. He had to create a show garden based on the concept of ‘Introducing Colour to Your Garden’ and inspired by the Grand Designs Live ethos, which includes contemporary style, inspirational design, and ethical and environmental responsibility.

His garden, called Controler la Couleur, is based on luxury coastal space but transported it into the homeowner’s garden. It features a typical beach hut, but, without its constraining walls, therefore freeing the space and leaving a sturdy skeleton made of reclaimed railway sleepers.

Weathered decking and stones underfoot add nostalgia while low maintenance planting provides architectural qualities. The principle of sustainability is also present in the garden - recycled yacht sails as wind shields give privacy, recycled tiles create a voluptuous mosaic and paintings portraying a vision of the glorious British coastline are made of torn boat sails.

Liam drew his inspiration from the acclaimed US landscape architect Steve Martino – who headlined last year’s James Hearsum Lecture Series at Writtle College – and his ability to transform dry gardens into beautiful, healthy and sustainable living spaces. The concept’s soul, Controler la Couleur, was also influenced by the vibrant French illustrator, Malika Favre.

The gardens were judged by an esteemed panel including garden and landscape gardener James Alexander-Sinclair, Grand Designs Live ambassador and broadcaster Kevin McCloud and Lee Newton, Managing Director of Media 10 and owner of Grand Designs Live.

Richard Romang, Landscape Architecture and Garden Design lecturer at Writtle School of Design, congratulated Liam saying: “Liam’s achievement is well-deserved; it is always rewarding to see our graduates progress and make a success of themselves in the world of landscape and garden design. Liam’s example is typical of many of our alumni who provide excellent role models for our current students.”

Steve Terry, course leader for the Landscape Architecture and Garden Design programme at Writtle School of Design, also recognised Liam’s huge achievement in winning: “Being able to synthesise innovative concepts with the idea of place, place-making and the interests of both designer and their potential clients is a difficult thing to do. Liam is achieving what can take many designers years to achieve; we are very proud of him and all our graduates.”

Liam’s garden can be seen in the Grand Gardens section Grand Designs Live London up until 11 May at the London Excel. For more information or to book tickets please visit http://www.granddesignslive.com/

To find out more about the Landscape Architecture and Garden Design courses at Writtle College, please visit www.writtle.ac.uk