Meet Chris Reynolds Of Bridgeman Kent Ltd

The Garden Designer With A Passion For Bringing People Closer To Nature

Q: What inspired you to become a Landscaper?

A: I was inspired by a passion for creating beautiful, functional green spaces that bring people closer to nature. Having worked for 15 years in public service (working specifically in Policing & Crime) prior to my career change, I wanted to channel my energy into something that combined creativity, sustainability, and wellbeing — garden design felt like the perfect fit.

Q: How long have you been in business?

A: Bridgeman Kent Ltd was established in 2022 and began trading in 2023, so we are a young but ambitious studio, now in our third year.

Q: Where did you train?

A: Having decided to take the plunge into a career in garden design I completed diplomas and post-graduate diplomas in garden design with Westminster University (2020) and London College of Garden Design (2022) and a Level 2 diploma in horticulture with the RHS (2021).

Q: Do you design and build or work with Garden Designers?

A: We are a garden design studio, so our focus is on design. We collaborate with skilled landscapers and craftspeople to bring our projects to life.

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

A: I’ve always been inspired by gardens that push boundaries while keeping sustainability at their heart. Gardens such as Sarah Price’s naturalistic planting schemes and Tom Stuart-Smith’s thoughtful, layered designs are particularly influential to me. This year I loved the Japanese Tea Garden garden by Kazuyuki Ishihara - his attention to detail was astounding.

Q: Where do you gain inspiration for your work?

A: I take inspiration from the natural world — from local landscapes to historic gardens — as well as from architecture, art, and the way people use space. Travel and time spent in nature often spark new ideas.

Q: Who has been the biggest influence on your career?

A: I’ve been hugely influence by the work of Darrly Moore who has worked extensively on greening city spaces through novel design ideas that ensure ecological, economic and social sustainability. Having volunteered building his show gardens at Chelsea in 2022 and 2024 he also inspired me to pursue my ambitions to create my own RHS show garden, which I did at Tatton in 2024, winning a Gold medal, ‘Peoples Choice’ and ‘best in category’ awards. 

Q: Natural Stone, porcelain or reclaimed stone, which is your favourite and why?

A: Reclaimed stone — it brings history, character, and sustainability to a garden. Every piece tells a story, and it allows us to create spaces that feel grounded and timeless.

Q: How do you feel your work transforms your customers’ lives?

A: A well-designed garden can completely change the way people live at home. It creates a space for relaxation, connection with nature, and entertaining loved ones — often becoming the most valued ‘room’ of the house.

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

A: Stay curious and open to learning. Every project teaches you something new, so don’t be afraid to ask questions, collaborate, and lean on others’ expertise. Above all, focus on quality and building relationships — they’ll carry your career forward.

Q: Which trade shows do you like to attend?

A: I enjoy attending the RHS shows, particularly Chelsea and Hampton Court, as well as industry events like Futurescape, which provide both inspiration and opportunities to connect with peers.

Q: Which areas of the country do you cover?

A: We are based in the South East, primarily working across Herts, Beds, Bucks and Greater London, though we’re always open to exciting projects further afield.

Q: Are you part of any trade body organisation?

A: Yes, I am a Pre-Registered Member of the Society of Garden & Landscape Designers (SGLD).

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Inspirational Garden In Hertfordshire Project type: Domestic Garden

Bridgeman Kent Garden Designs took on this Hertfordshire half an acre with a steep level step change and created something exceptional that marries indoor & outdoor living with an elegant yet functional design. 

This project is a strong example of contemporary landscaping, paired with a thoughtful use of hard materials and naturalistic planting. 

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