Halman Thompson metalwork features in Chelsea Gold Medal garden

Halman Thompson’s bespoke hand-aged copper containers were featured in the Flood Re: Contain the Rain Garden, which won Gold in the Container Gardens category at RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2026 in London. The display highlighted how compact urban gardens can combine planting with practical rainwater management.

Why it matters: - The Chelsea garden showed how decorative metalwork can serve a practical role in flood resilience and water management. - The Gold Medal win gave Halman Thompson a high-profile showcase for its bespoke aged copper finishes. - The exhibit reflected growing demand for small-space garden designs that balance visual detail with environmental function.

What happened: - Halman Thompson’s bespoke hand-aged copper metalwork featured in the Flood Re: Contain the Rain Garden at RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2026. - The garden won a Gold Medal in the Container Gardens category. - The display appeared at stand 810 in London. - John Howlett designed the garden. - Acacia Gardens built the installation. - Flood Re sponsored the project.

The details: - Halman Thompson produced the weathered metal containers used in the planting and water-management scheme. - The garden drew on traditional Persian garden design and used a small footprint to create a calm planted space. - The layout included layered greenery, seating and remodelled containers. - The Royal Horticultural Society said the garden combined permeable surfaces, integrated water storage and resilient planting to help manage excess rainwater in domestic settings. - The copper containers were individually hand-aged using the company’s Northumberland matt finish. - The finish created a mottled blue-green verdigris and a weathered look across the display. - The RHS listing said the garden was designed for a single person or couple with an environmental conscience. - The listing also said hexagonal planters were used to maximise space and allow varied heights and layouts. - Flood Re said the garden supported its wider work to raise awareness of domestic flood risk and practical steps that can reduce the impact of surface water. - John Thompson, owner of Halman Thompson Ltd, said the company was thrilled to contribute to the project and proud to see the design receive a gold medal.

Between the lines: - The Chelsea installation positioned Halman Thompson’s metal finishes as both decorative and functional. - The project also signaled how flood-resilience messaging is increasingly being folded into mainstream garden design. - The company’s appearance in a medal-winning show garden may help strengthen its profile in residential, garden and commercial markets.

What's next: - Halman Thompson said more information about its bespoke metalwork is available through the company’s website. - The company continues to work on metal finishes for residential, garden, hospitality and commercial interiors. - Its project list includes splashbacks, table and bar tops, wall art, garden screens, cladding and other bespoke work. - The company’s website and social channels carry additional photographs and project details.