Associate Director Reno Whitehead and Landscape Architect Sam Chi joined volunteers from WSP, AtkinsRéalis and Ramboll, contributing to the early stages of transforming a former historic rose garden into a new sunken garden.

The initiative was led by University of Birmingham Horticultural Supervisor Adrienne Wade, guiding the team through the site’s history and future vision.

This initial phase focused on the clearance and preparation of the existing planting beds. While physically demanding, this work is essential in setting the foundation for the next stage of the garden’s development.

The future scheme will introduce a diverse mix of herbaceous perennials alongside a striking collection of tree ferns, creating a layered and immersive landscape that reflects both botanical richness and spatial depth.

The transformation aims to reinterpret the historic garden setting while introducing a contemporary planting strategy.

As Phase 1 concludes, attention now turns to the next stage of works, where the vision for the new sunken garden will begin to fully take shape.

The volunteering day demonstrated the value of collaboration across the built environment sector, bringing together designers, engineers and specialists in a shared effort to enhance a significant local landscape.

We look forward to returning to Winterbourne to see the next phase of the garden realised.

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Recreating the ‘Garden Campus’ Identity
From the outset, the aim was to recreate the original campus garden feel. The arrival experience has been transformed, opening up visual links to the green heart of the campus from the main reception. The project creates usable green areas where students can relax, study, or simply spend time. It’s no longer a place to pass through – it’s a place to stay.

Designing for Personal Wellbeing
The project was designed with personal wellbeing at its heart. With the proven benefits of green space on mental and physical health, our proposals focused on inclusivity, safety, and flexibility. The proposals provide a variety of spaces suited to both individuals and groups, usable throughout the academic year and into the evenings thanks to thoughtful lighting and secure access.

Boosting Biodiversity on Campus
Newman’s campus was already green – but we saw further potential to make it thrive. The scheme introduces native and pollinator-friendly planting. Education and engagement are key too: from simple signage to hands-on student volunteering, the garden is designed to be loved and looked after by its community.

Sustainability and Low-Carbon Thinking
As always for us at Associated Architects, sustainability underpins every decision, with A/A+ rated materials, FSC-certified timber, and features like shade-giving trees to help cool outdoor areas. Our ‘green specification’ responds to BREEAM guidance and prioritises circular, low-carbon products.

Delivering Value and Longevity
Longevity is considered in every detail, from robust material choices to climate-resilient planting. A dedicated Landscape Maintenance Management Plan will support the university in preserving this high-quality space.

Key Moves at a Glance:

• Reinstate and enhance lawns and planting
• Introduce intimate, quiet study zones
• Provide flexible seating and informal gathering spaces
• Encourage biodiversity through planting and maintenance
• Responds to existing desire lines and building access routes

The result is a space that supports wellbeing, celebrates nature, and brings students and faculty together – a true garden for learning, living and community.

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