Chelsea Flower Show 2018 - Hillier Garden Centres - Stihl Inspiration & A Royal Celebration

In late Autumn of 2017 we were asked by Hillier to supply the corten steel planters, walls and water features in their show garden designed by Sarah Eberle. We also supplied the corten steel for the Bull Ring Gate entrance they were asked to dress for the occasion, inspired by the Royal wedding, incorporating some bespoke made walls and stairs that made the stage for the installation.

One of the challenges we faced were the bespoke items that needed to be not only fabricated but also weathered to the desired classic corten steel deep ombre colour in time for the setup of the show. For the Bull Ring Entrance, we needed to secure the stairs to the walls, so it would all be self-supporting, this was achieved by having the walls made with blind-welded nuts in the surface of the walls which was also made in a thicker gauge of steel for strength. The stairs could then be offered up to the walls and bolted into place. With all bespoke corten steel orders there was a production time of 6 weeks with a further 2-week delivery time. We worked closely with the setup team at Hillier to guarantee that the steel was delivered on-time and looking perfect, which was achieved with a week to spare!