6 of our favourite small balcony and container gardens at the Chelsea Flower Show 2025
Perfect small space inspiration
The RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2025 is in full swing. Following on from the surge of gardeners in lockdown, the RHS has recognised small balcony and container gardens for the fifth time — and they provide perfect inspiration for those lacking outdoor space.
Demonstrating the latest design trends and beautiful planting combinations, while exploring themes and issues of everyday life, they offer hacks for making the most of your outdoor area when space is limited.
Looking for ideas on how to design a small outdoor space? Take a look at the beautiful balconies and container gardens below...
Navium Marine: Blue Mind Garden
Exploring the wellbeing benefits of water and the concept of blue mind, this serene space designed by Ashleigh Aylett reimagines how the aspects of water can be integrated into small spaces to create a sense of serenity in any environment. It adds depth and visual interest with textures and plants arranged for a layered effect.
"Moveable pots as well as fixed planters increase the versatility of the garden, as they can be moved aside to create more space for larger gatherings," Ashleigh Aylett told RHS.
Fettercairn Wilderness Retreat
Designed by ssh scapes with busy professionals in mind, this balcony retreat features a copper bathtub for cold-water plunges and a sheltered seating area for mindful moments.
"Make the most of an exposed balcony location, by not enclosing it. Make it an extension of your indoor space but by embracing its situation and creating a space that challenges comfort levels, excites and reinvigorates the mind and body," explains Sonia Kamel, Sally Giles and Helier Bowling.
Secret Base – The Another Green Room Garden
Secret Base – The Another Green Room Garden was designed by Jun Ishihara to be used as an additional room for a fully immersive nature experience. It features overhead plants, a flowing waterfall, and a design that conceals the artificial shapes of the containers.
"Having a beautiful garden visible from the house can enhance creativity when working from home, and taking a break in the garden allows for a refreshing change of mindset," says Jun Ishihara.
Room to Breathe Hospital Garden for the TSA
Designed by Jen Donnelly and Catherine Gibbon, the Room to Breathe Hospital Garden was created to offer a restorative space for parents and caregivers of patients in hospital. With a focus on tapping into the power of nature to restore and recharge, it plays on vary heights to make the most of the small space.
"Layered planting in containers, on walls, and trailing from the pergola expands planting opportunities without sacrificing ground area. A focal point adds interest to the space and incorporating water, no matter how small, promotes calm and tranquillity," explains Jen Donnelly and Catherine Gibbon.
MS Amlin Peace of Mind Garden
Exploring the impact of colour, the MS Amlin Peace of Mind Garden embraces a colour wheel with contrasting leaf textures, shapes and flower colours for maximum impact. With a focus on mindful observation and grounding, the garden, designed by Hamzah-Adam Desai, aims to boost mood and offer wellbeing benefits.
"Less is more. Try not to overfill the space with unnecessary items. I overcame this by paring back the design with a simple layout which does not feel too constricted yet feels spacious," says Hamzah-Adam Desai.
Komorebi Garden
Inspired by Komorebi, the Japanese word to describe sunlight filtering through trees, this garden was designed by Masa Taniguchi who was inspired by childhood memories of visiting forests in Nagano, Japan. Key features of the garden include Betula trees and the contrasting materials such as charcoal and bamboo.
"By using made to measure planters in different heights, including on the floor, you can maximise the planting space. A raised platform and stepping stones will give a sense of journey in the small space. The overhead trees improve the sense of seclusion," Masa Taniguchi explains.
Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
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