Horatio’s Garden, Sheffield

A garden that heals and restores

Created for patients, their families, outpatients and the 250 staff who care for them, the garden is part of daily life at Horatio’s Garden Sheffield & East. Beginning its life at Chelsea, this garden raised awareness there for the need for restorative outdoor spaces in healthcare. It was designed as the antithesis of a clinical ward: a calm, immersive sanctuary offering privacy, sensory richness and connection with nature.

Rooted in Sheffield’s industrial and cultural heritage, the garden celebrates the city’s people and landscapes. Its narrative draws on the craftsmanship of the Little Mesters and the master cutlers of Sheffield, referenced in cast cutlery dies within the water feature. It is also influenced by the cairns of the Peak District, reimagined here as stone artworks. These were hand-built by young stonemasons from a fifth-generation family of local craftsmen, guiding patients along their journeys when the path feels unclear.

Every detail was informed by consultation with patients and an understanding of how they would experience the space. Layered, vibrant planting accommodates different heights and perspectives, while a timber-clad garden room offers quiet refuge, with windows overlooking bespoke feeders and hides for close encounters with wildlife.

“Harris Bugg leave no stone unturned in their discovery of detail for their designs. They have a natural ability to use story telling within the garden to create an immersive sanctuary of outstanding beauty.” – Dr. Olivia Chapple OBE, Horatio’s Garden founder

Press

Gardens Illustrated: How to design an accessible garden

Country Living Magazine: Princess Anne opens new accessible garden

Collaboration

Team: Gleeds, RLX, Water Artisans, Noble Stonework 

Photography: Britt Willoughby