Specialist metalwork supplier IOTA collaborated with garden designer Tina Worboys to deliver the structural elements of the Alzheimer's Society 'Microbes and Minds Garden' at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2026. The garden won the People's Choice Award in the Balcony and Container Garden category.

Design concept

The garden draws its inspiration from the rural orchards of Worcestershire and Herefordshire, exploring the relationship between apple cider vinegar, gut health, and the microbiome.

At its centre stands an apple tree representing "The Mother" - the culture of beneficial bacteria produced during fermentation.

The design draws connections between gut health, nature, and brain function, with particular relevance to dementia research and the Alzheimer's Society's mission.

IOTA's work

IOTA was responsible for the design, manufacture, and supply of curved aluminium sculptures and planters, along with timber benching.

These elements form the structural backbone of the garden, with the sculptures taking the form of high-gloss curved forms referencing the amber glass bottles used to store apple cider vinegar — chosen both for their aesthetic resonance and their symbolic role in protecting "The Mother" culture, and by extension the visitor seated within the intimate seating area.

Manufacturing challenges

The commission presented two significant technical challenges:

  1. Fabricating the aluminium sculptures and planters to a standard of precision sufficient to evoke the appearance of glass.

  2. Developing a bespoke finish capable of replicating the warmth and depth of amber glass.

IOTA developed an entirely new, proprietary multi-layer paint system designed to produce exceptional depth, translucency, and tonal variation.

The finish responds to its environment, shifting in character with changes in light, viewing angle, and surrounding reflections.

Depending on conditions, the surface ranges from warm golden honey tones through to deeper burnt amber shades.

IOTA notes that, with further development, this system has potential applications across luxury interior and exterior design more broadly.

Purpose and legacy

The garden was sponsored by the Alzheimer's Society to engage on the subject of dementia, deepening awareness of the condition and emerging research around the gut-brain connection.

Gardens have long been associated with dementia care - offering therapeutic benefits, stimulating memory, and providing connection to the natural world.

Following the Chelsea Flower Show, the Alzheimer's Society: Microbes and Minds Garden was relocated to a Hallmark Luxury Care Home, extending its reach and impact beyond the show itself.