Tending to the land with care
“One of the basic human requirements is the need to dwell”, Junichirō Tanizaki, In Praise of Shadows
Tended Land designs through gardening. Our approach is not studio based. We work with time and nature, developing a relationship with a garden over many years.
We’re interested in the unique atmosphere of place and bring a high level of horticultural care and aesthetic sensibility to pocket sized spaces in London.
We are supported by our Business Associate, Stephen Crisp, who was previously Head of Horticulture for the United States Embassy in London.
Working with nature and time
Our work honours the unique atmosphere of a garden, whilst responding sensitively to planting and seasonal change. We garden thoughtfully, developing a relationship with a garden over time. Our approach is to tend to a garden, to make skilled interventions that allow plants to evolve naturally, whilst supporting wildlife and pollinators.
“We believe that tending to the land and nurturing plants is an important act in its own right, for nature, people and cities.”
Practice Principles
1. Improving biodiversity
Gentle management of ecosystems to support pollinators and wildlife
2. Maintaining a vision
Upholding the design vision and unique atmosphere of each project
3. Reducing our impact
Reusing, repairing, recycling (and cycling)
4. Sharing your values
Representing your team and culture
5. Adapting to change
Allowing gardens to evolve and develop naturally and beautifully
6. Engaging with people
Happy to talk to employees and the community
Garden Engagement
We hope to run regular workshops with end-client teams that encourage engagement with green spaces and to learn basic horticultural techniques. We see this as a value-add to clients & HR teams, supporting culture and ESG policy.
The Team
Nicholas Couch & Benjamin Kempton
We are career changers from an art and design background. Over the past five years we’ve transitioned towards a full time career in horticulture, studying the RHS Level 2 theory and practical courses. We currently work in London gardens and have gained experience at Sissinghurst, Tom Stuart Smith’s Serge Hill and the Chelsea Physic Garden.
We draw on 20+ years of experience working with design teams, understanding their vision and managing projects efficiently. Benjamin was creative director and stylist for Wallpaper* and The World of Interiors. Nicholas was Managing Director of brand and advertising agencies in London & NY.
Stephen Crisp — Business Associate
We are supported by Stephen Crisp, previously Head of Horticulture, United States Embassy London. He was responsible for running a broad portfolio of diplomatic properties in the capital. Stephen is a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Gardeners and was made an Associate of Honour of the Royal Horticultural Society in 2017. Stephen will have a consultative role, overseeing projects.
Contact
To hear more about Tended Land and discuss working together.
Email Nicholas & Benjamin
hello@tendedland.com
