The judges in the competition, organised in partnership with Frilu, the Penrith-based destination for landscape design and outdoor living, were looking for spaces that felt lived in, were well considered and personal. Places with character that reflect the people who care for them.
That’s exactly what they found in this year’s winner, Louise Porter from Carlisle.
Louise reimagined a Victorian terrace garden, which captured the judges’ attention through its balance of charm, well-planned layout and thoughtful personal touches. Designed as a series of connected zones, the garden moves from sociable seating areas to a cosy garden studio that feels like a natural extension of the home. Every corner has been carefully thought through, and it shows.
“This garden felt truly personal,” said Amanda Ingram, director at Frilu and competition judge. “You could tell it had been shaped with intention. It made the most of the space in a way that felt welcoming and grounded.”
The judging panel reviewed a wealth of entries from across the region, each one offering something unique. Some gardens had been lovingly built on a shoestring, using upcycled materials and weekend graft. Others had evolved slowly over the years, shaped by family life, changing needs and a growing understanding of the space. A few were bold and ambitious, full of personality, while others were quiet, peaceful and deeply personal.
Louise’s entry stood above the rest thanks to her ability to blend character with practicality. Recycled materials gave a second life to previously unloved elements, including salvaged paving stones and a broken bench now lovingly restored. An ornamental acer tree stands in pride of place, planted in memory of the family’s beloved dog, Benjy, giving the garden a beautiful – and sentimental – focal point.
“You could see it had been shaped by someone who knows how people actually use their space day to day. It was thoughtful and clearly cared for,” explained Amanda.
Louise is no stranger to garden care. After years working as a primary school teacher, she stepped away from the classroom to share her love of plants, nature and outdoor spaces by setting up her own business, Tidy Thyme. She supports homeowners across the city, especially older clients, with regular garden maintenance, design advice and a friendly chat over a cup of tea.
The team at Frilu presented Louise with the 2025 award alongside a £250 voucher to spend in their Penrith showroom.
Amanda said: “This beautiful garden is a great example of what’s possible when you combine thoughtful planning alongside creativity with care. It’s exactly the kind of garden we set out to celebrate.”
Louise said: “I was really delighted to be chosen. The garden was built with love and passion. It was definitely a learning curve and it was something that we undertook as a bit of a project. It was done to help my friends change their garden and make it a place they want to spend time in.”
For more inspiration or to start planning your own outdoor space, visit www.frilu.co.uk or follow @friluoutdoorliving. To find out more about Louise and Tidy Thyme, visit www.tidythyme.co.uk.
Comments are closed.