5 years since she established East London Garden Design Studio, meet Gina Taylor 

London-based creative Gina Taylor established East London Garden Design Studio in 2020; with a background in textiles and art history Gina’s love of nature and connecting people to it brought her to the world of garden design. We sat down to chat more about her journey. 

Question (Q): What inspired you to become a garden designer?

Answer (A): My passion for creative problem solving and love of nature. I enjoy finding ways to bring balance and functionality to outdoor spaces that connect with people.

Q: How long have you been in practice?

A: I established East London Garden Design Studio in 2020, and it’s been five wonderful years since! Time has truly flown by.

Q: Where did you train?

A: I gained my RHS Garden Design qualification at RHS Wisley and studied Principles of Plant Growth and Development at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. My background in art includes a degree in Textile Arts and studies in Art History, Theory & Criticism at Vilnius Art Academy. I’m currently studying a Landscaping Construction course at HCC College.

Q: Which award-winning Chelsea Flower Show gardens inspire you?

A: Each Flower Show garden represents an extraordinary blend of creativity, knowledge, hard work and determination of everyone involved in the process. No matter the size, they all show true passion and dedication to the craft. In no particular order, these are some of my favourites throughout the years: 

• Tony Woods ‘Garden Sanctuary by Hamptons’ Chelsea 2022

• Sarah Price's ‘Nurture Landscapes Garden’ Chelsea 2023 

• Tom Stuart - Smith’s ‘National Green Scheme Garden’ Chelsea 2024

• Tom Bannister’s ‘The Ecotherapy garden’ Chelsea 2024

Q: Where do you gain inspiration for your garden designs?

A: I gain inspiration for my garden designs by listening to my clients’ needs and aspirations - understanding how they want to use the space and how they hope it will make them feel. I also take into consideration the location, architecture, and interior style of their homes, ensuring that the garden feels like a natural extension of their home.

Q: Do you always tend to work with the same landscaper to install your gardens

A: I truly value good craftsmanship and people who take pride in their work. Due to the varying project locations, complexities, and required skillsets I collaborate with various teams to ensure each garden is brought to life with the right expertise.

Q: Tulips or Grasses: what are your favourites and why?

All of the above please! They each play different roles in the garden: grasses bring texture, movement, and softness to planting schemes - I especially love Melica altissima ‘Alba’, Hakonechloa macra, and Sesleria autumnalis. In spring, when deciduous grasses are cut back, tulips add fireworks of vibrant colours and bold forms. I enjoy mixing varieties like ‘La Belle Époque’, ‘Queen of the Night’, and ‘Amazing Parrot’ for contrast and added drama.

Q: In one sentence how would you encapsulate the transformative power of gardens?

A: Two words:  Pure Magic!

Q: What advice would you offer to newly qualified designers?

A: Dream big, embrace the challenges along the way and most importantly — enjoy the journey

Q: Which trade shows do you like to attend?

A: I like to attend as many events as possible - from garden shows like Chelsea, Hampton Court, and BBC Gardeners’ World, to trade shows such as Futurescape, London Design Week, Clerkenwell Design Week and Decorex International, as well as networking events hosted by industry bodies. Knowledge is power, and staying connected keeps my creativity and expertise growing.

Q: Which areas of the country do you cover?

A: London

Q: Do you specify products for your designs?

A: Absolutely - I carefully select products for my designs to ensure quality, sustainability, and a perfect fit for each project

Q: Are you part of any trade body organisation?

I’m a proud member of the Association of Professional Landscapers (APL), the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), TrustMark – the Government Endorsed Quality Scheme, and the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS)

Q: What products have you specified from Arbour?

A: I adore Arbour's natural stone products and Sinai Pearl Beige Limestone Setts are my absolute favourite

Q: What is the positive impact you experience from working with a reliable materials supplier?

A: It ensures consistent quality, smooth project delivery, and peace of mind knowing every detail meets highest standards.

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