Nigel Dunnett obituary

Landscape designer whose naturalistic schemes transformed public spaces and community gardens

From a flower-filled moat at the Tower of London to a rooftop community garden on the Old Kent Road, the work of the landscape designer, horticulturist and educator Nigel Dunnett, who has died aged 63 from cancer, showed how urban landscapes could be visually dramatic, ecologically rich and experientially uplifting. Dunnett’s deep plant knowledge, design acumen and advocacy of biodiversity helped change how cities, institutions and public audiences understand the role of landscaping and naturalistic planting.

As a pioneer of ecological and sustainable approaches to gardens, landscapes and public spaces, he saw planting not just as a cosmetic afterthought but as a living, evolving and inspiring part of urban life.