Parkinsons UK Garden: The emotional architecture of timber
Curated alongside 15 people living with Parkinson’s, the garden was designed to evoke an emotional and sensory response, not simply a visual one. Every material choice had to feel empathetic to the lived experience of Parkinson’s, and timber became central to that conversation because people instinctively want to touch it: it brings warmth, tactility and a softness that more industrial materials simply cannot replicate.
Working with Millimetre, the material palette was carefully considered to balance sensory experience with long-term performance. Some of the timber elements were reduced to around 10mm in thickness, which would typically create a significant risk of movement or distortion in a conventional timber product. Accoya’s exceptional dimensional stability and low swelling and shrinkage rates made it possible to achieve the delicate architectural detailing and refined finish the design required, while maintaining durability over time.
The sensory qualities of the garden were especially important. Features such as the tactile handrail and flowing water were designed to help stimulate the senses and encourage movement, recognising that people with Parkinson’s can experience freezing episodes. The sound, movement and touch elements work together to create moments of reconnection and calm within the space.
The garden also demonstrates timber’s versatility as both a structural and emotional material. The supporting metalwork was intentionally designed to complement rather than compete with the timber, while a pre-aged finish was used to maintain a soft, natural tone and allow the beauty of the material to remain central to the experience.
Sustainability and longevity were equally important considerations. Following Chelsea, the garden will move to the John Radcliffe Hospital, giving the project a meaningful second life beyond the show itself. That circular approach aligned closely with Accoya’s Cradle to Cradle Certified® credentials and wider focus on long-life, sustainable design.
The garden’s impact was recognised across the show, winning both the BBC / RHS People’s Choice Award and a Silver Award at RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2026 - a testament to the collective effort behind the project and the emotional resonance of the space itself.