Ground Control designer to showcase at the RHS Badminton Flower Show

Sophie Sturgeon, Landscape Architect, shows ‘A Space for Her’

Sophie Sturgeon, Landscape Architect, has been selected by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) to showcase her design at the RHS Badminton Flower Show, 8–12 July 2026.

Open to emerging talent, the ‘Young Designers Category’ is judged across multiple stages by RHS experts, who select three designers that demonstrate creativity, strong design thinking, horticulture knowledge, and a clear, deliverable vision - challenging them to bring their concepts to life at the Badminton Flower Show this year. The process involved an initial application, followed by several rounds of judging and design development before the final selection was made.

The winning design was created independently by Sophie, and Ground Control are proud to sponsor and support the build. When designing ‘A Space for Her’ Garden, Sophie shared her inspiration for the concept:

As a woman in the industry, I wanted to highlight the need for spaces designed for girls. Growing up, it often felt like there was nowhere for me and my friends to go that wasn’t on the edge of a skatepark or basketball court — spaces that didn’t feel made for us. With the impact of social media on young people, A Space for Her aims to encourage stepping away from screens and reconnecting with nature, creating a calm, supportive environment where girls can feel comfortable, confident and free to be themselves.

Illustration of a landscaped garden with curving paths, trees, planted borders, and a small pavilion with seating. — *A space for her (visualisation) - Sophie Strugeon ©*

The garden aims to encourage young girls to step away from screens and reconnect with nature in a space where girls can feel comfortable, confident and free to just be themselves. A Space for Her is designed through the lens of a young woman's experience. The garden creates a supportive environment while remaining a space that welcomes everyone. Inspired by the ripple effect, the design reflects how confidence can grow gradually and spread outwards through connection, reflection, and supportive spaces. Visitors follow a flowing, curvilinear path where moments of reflection are gently revealed along the journey.

Through soft planting, trees, and carefully guided sightlines, the garden encourages visitors to slow down, reconnect with themselves, and discover how moments in nature can nurture confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging.

The palette focuses on gentle, soothing tones, with planting chosen not only for visual interest but also for its sensory qualities — encouraging visitors to slow down and engage with the space. The overall effect is a garden that feels nurturing and quietly uplifting.

Looking ahead to the RHS Badminton Flower Show in July, Sophie shared:

I’m so excited to see the garden move from concept into reality. It’s also an incredible chance to meet many of my idols within the industry, connect with like-minded people, and showcase my work on such a well-respected platform.

We’d like to congratulate Sophie for this fantastic achievement, and after already appearing on the Pro Landscaper 30 under 30 list, it is another great milestone in her career.