Kebony – Naturally Norway
The “Kebony - Naturally Norway” Show Garden is the combined vision of designer Darren Saines and revolutionary Norwegian wood company Kebony.
Darren’s design philosophy was to create a nature-inspired garden grown to flourish in and resist the diverse Nordic climate with plants chosen for their unusual natural shapes and structures. The garden was designed to reflect the unique landscape of Norway - from flora and fauna to fjords.
The stunning Norwegian flora illustrates an undulating valley region with deciduous and evergreen trees. The planted areas was defined by natural stone with a centrepiece of a dramatic 40-year-old stunted pine tree set in natural larvikitt – The Norwegian national stone.
A sleek central pavilion with a ‘living cube’ is a space that adapts to the seasons, immersing the senses outdoors. Designed as an extension of the home for use throughout the year the structure features intriguing applications – a discreet kitchen, shower and even day bed. An undulating water feature surrounds the pavilion reflecting the tranquil Norwegian fjords.
Creative, yet subtle solutions to protecting the environment are intrinsic to the design. Kebony wood is used as a sustainable alternative to tropical timber for the decking and pavilion structure while energy is created from bio ethanol burners.
Recycled glass was used within the living cube, tinted to provide unusual lighting effects, and self cleaning for low maintenance. Natural slate was applied to terraced areas and granite from Southern Norway for its unique pearly façade. Even the boundary walls were constructed from an eco-product called Durisol, blocks made from 80% recycled wood, linked together like Lego.
360º Virtual tour here.
Darren Saines, garden designer:
- Inspired by the enchanting natural beauty of Norway, the garden epitomizes traditional outdoor living with a contemporary twist. My design illustrates how a garden can be used through the changing seasons with innovative, low maintenance materials such as Kebony wood chosen to protect the environment.
Darren Saines has worked with Kebony on a number of projects, and this showcase at The RHS Chelsea Flower Show has been a lifelong ambition made possible with support from the Norwegian Embassy in London, Innovation Norway and other pioneering companies all striving for a protected environment.