Maggie’s centre |oldham, UK|2017 - current

Maggie’s Centres Oldham by architects dRMM was opened in June 2017. The garden sits four meters below the building and offers an element of surprise; as you enter the centre, you find yourself floating amongst trees. Maggie’s Centres offer care and support for people living with cancer.

The Design

The challenge was to respond meaningfully to the wooded landscape and the 'treehouse' concept, shaping the composition and materials of the garden accordingly. The design paints the garden setting with colour, texture, and a diverse palette of plantings, all inspired by the nearby Pennine Mountains. The garden becomes a miniature translation of the wider panorama—a Pennine landscape in microcosm, with river-washed stones, clusters of trees, lots of rain fall and lush woodland floor.

As the building appears to float above the garden, it frames views outward, transforming the planted landscape into a living picture. The scene is intentionally loose and expressive—planting that feels less contrived, more gestural—capturing the wild essence of the Pennines and the quiet, expansive breath you take when overlooking such a vast, untamed landscape.

About maggie’s centre, oldham. a sustainable garden

Pastoral Care Centre Garden and sanctuary for people living with cancer

This contemplative garden was designed for a charitable pastoral care centre, supporting people living with cancer. It was featured in an interview with Rupert on BBC Gardeners’ World, and remains a cherished space for the community.

Recommended by the architects, we were commissioned to create a sanctuary that would offer a gentle counterpoint to the adjacent hospital. The design also aimed to complement the new contemporary building, drawing inspiration from the natural beauty of the surrounding Pennine Mountains.

From the outset, we developed a clear design concept and produced detailed technical drawings for a sustainably built garden. The site’s deeply shaded conditions required sensitive planting choices: species were selected to co-exist harmoniously, with minimal competition and no need for irrigation. A dramatic feature—a giant water bowl—captures and expresses roof water run-off, becoming a visual and auditory focal point.

Locally sourced plants and materials grounded the garden in its regional context. We remained on site throughout the build, working closely with the site project manager to oversee construction. The project was completed on time and within budget. Since then, the garden has gently matured into its setting, becoming a vital place of peace, reflection, and connection for those who visit.

a NATURAL garden

This reflects the healing power of nature, offering visitors a peaceful retreat to reduce anxiety, foster strength, and reconnect with life.

The design emphasises minimal maintenance and ecological harmony. Carefully chosen plants, thrive together, mimicking the natural patterns of Pennine landscapes. Rainwater is harvested to support sustainability, while gravelly soils ensure excellent drainage, vital in the region’s high rainfall. These elements sustain a vibrant habitat that attracts birds and wildlife, enhancing the sense of life and renewal.

The trees rise through and around the timber building, creating a “wood” that changes with the seasons, grounding visitors in the present. This garden captures the uplifting and healing essence of nature.