Cornwall Graduate’s Garden Design Earns National Praise

A Cornwall-based garden and landscape design graduate has been recognised at a major national awards ceremony, with her student work earning high praise from judges.

National recognition for graduate work

Sally Robinson, a graduate of the BSc Garden and Landscape Design programme at Cornwall College University Centre at the Eden Project, was named a finalist in the Student Public Realm category at the Society of Garden Landscape Design Awards 2026.

At the awards ceremony in London, Sally’s project received a Highly Commended recognition, with judges describing it as a close decision in a highly competitive category.

“I feel very proud to have been nominated,” said Sally Robinson. “I spent a long time working on my honours project and felt very passionate about it, so it’s nice to get some recognition for that. It feels really exciting and I’m grateful for everyone’s support.”

The Nurture project

Sally’s recognised submission was her honours project, Nurture, a conceptual landscape-led fertility clinic planned for rural north Cornwall. The design brings together planting, water and spatial layout to create a calm and supportive environment focused on privacy, reflection and a connection to nature.

The project uses biophilic design principles to address both emotional and practical needs. Wetlands are incorporated to boost biodiversity and manage surface water, while prairie-style planting supports pollinators and wildlife. A carefully screened car park uses permeable surfaces to reduce runoff and create a welcoming arrival experience.

At the heart of Nurture is a reflective pool and arched structure, using water and form as symbolic references to fertility, optimism and new beginnings. Woodland planting, gentle pathways and quiet activity spaces are designed to support wellbeing-focused activities.

Reflecting on her approach, Sally said: “It’s the projects where there are opportunities to improve biodiversity or to create situations where people can really get the most out of being outdoors that inspire me the most.”

She added: “I wanted to create a garden where everything within it would allow for a more relaxed experience from the moment that people arrive. Having spaces within the garden set up for activities such as yoga and meditation can create a less stressful environment.”

Life after graduation

Sally now works as a horticulturalist at CHAOS Farm, a care farm on the Roseland Peninsula. Her role includes propagating and tending vegetables in the market garden and helping to co-ordinate volunteer activities for people benefiting from horticultural therapy.

Alongside her role, she has been supporting the organisation with new garden developments across its sites, including recent designs for a sensory garden and a wildlife pond.

Praise from educators

“Sally’s work shows how thoughtful landscape design can positively shape ecological outcomes while supporting people’s experiences of place,” said Sam Kendall, Head of Higher Education at the Eden Project.

“As an educational charity, it’s powerful to see a graduate of the course delivered here applying and uniting the principles of environmental purpose and social value. It is, quite literally, our mission in action. We’re proud to see Sally’s work being recognised nationally and look forward to following her continued positive impact.”

Mark Holman, Programme Manager for BSc Garden and Landscape Design at Cornwall College University Centre at the Eden Project, added: “Sally’s success reflects both her commitment as a designer and the quality of teaching and support on the programme. To receive a Highly Commended recognition in such a competitive national category is a significant achievement and underlines the strength of her work and design thinking.”

The Society of Garden Landscape Design Awards celebrate excellence across the profession, with student categories highlighting emerging designers whose work demonstrates originality, quality and social relevance.