Jo Thompson, the only female designer of a large show garden at RHS Chelsea this year, unveils The Glasshouse Garden—a bold, immersive space celebrating feminine strength, second chances, and the healing power of nature.

The design was inspired by the women of The Glasshouse, a pioneering social enterprise supporting women leaving prison through horticultural training, resettlement support and employment. With a 0% reoffending rate, The Glasshouse programme transforms lives, offering a positive and purposeful future for women in custody, their families and wider society.

At the heart of the design is a translucent elliptical pavilion—created in collaboration with Hollaway Studio—formed from recycled acrylic in a soft, four-colour botanical tint. This elegant structure sits among rich, layered planting and offers a safe space for reflection, connection, and support. A flowing stone rill weaves through the garden, ending in a tranquil pool.

The garden’s colour palette is inspired by the idea of “strong beauty” — Jo is blending deep reds, pinks and crimsons with soft peach and apricot hues. Over 75% of the garden is planted, with fragrant roses, vibrant perennials, and a light, airy canopy of river birch and Zelkova serrata.

Every element has been chosen with sustainability in mind—from reclaimed British stone and self-seeded pathways to tactile wooden benches and furniture made from recycled materials. After the show, the garden will be relocated to HMP Downview, a women’s closed prison in Surrey, where it will provide inspiration and hope for women in custody and live on as a lasting place for training, planning and imagining second chances.

“This garden is not just about beauty,” says Jo Thompson. “It’s about legacy. It’s about hope and real change for women rebuilding their lives.”

“The Glasshouse found me at my lowest point.” says a woman in The Glasshouse programme. “They helped me to see there was hope and that I am a person capable of amazing things.”

Funded by Project Giving Back, The Glasshouse Garden is a garden of beauty, eco-consciousness and social purpose.