Mark & Jules
Mark Wheeler, a seasoned plant expert, and Jules Gilleland, a visionary designer passionate about transformative environments, are the creative minds behind the restoration project of the Georgian walled kitchen garden called Bothy Gardens. Each brings unique expertise and passion for creating exceptional spaces that blend rare botanical treasures with holistic design concepts.
Mark Wheeler
Mark is renowned for his exceptional ability to source and locate the most elusive and extraordinary plants. With a career spanning over four decades, his journey began at Rochfords Nursery. For nearly two decades, he honed his skills and deepened his knowledge, eventually venturing out on his own to establish Folia Europe.
With an insatiable thirst for exploration, Mark embarked on numerous European journeys searching for rare and unique plants and trees. This adventurous spirit earned him the moniker of the "planthunter," as he effortlessly sourced and located the most extraordinary horticultural specimens. His unrivalled horticultural knowledge and dedication have been recognized with awards, and his involvement in more than ten winning Chelsea Flower Shows.
Driven by his lifelong passion and expertise, Mark's dream is to bring to life a walled garden like no other. With an unwavering commitment to sourcing the most extraordinary botanical treasures, he envisions a sanctuary brimming with an exquisite collection of rare herbaceous plants, perennials, and shrubs. This secret garden seamlessly blends traditional gardening methods with cutting-edge technology. Mark's vision for the Bothy Gardens transcends mere restoration; it represents an opportunity to create a living masterpiece that captivates the senses and sparks the imagination.
Jules Gilleland
Jules, on the other hand, brings her expertise in design to the project, specializing in crafting transformative experiences and environments that evoke wonder, joy, and exploration. Drawing on a deep-rooted commitment to designing holistic learning environments, Jules uniquely inspires individuals to unlock their full potential.
Inspired by her master's thesis completed at Aalto University in 2000, Jules opened Turtlewings design studio in 2007 in Brussels, Belgium. This visionary initiative invited educators, children, and families to embark on a journey of design thinking and educational concepts. She is excited to launch Turtlewings UK, focusing on designing interior and exterior spaces that promote wonder and wellbeing.
With her deep understanding of the power of design, Jules is poised to infuse the walled garden with a sense of magic and wonder. Her remarkable ability to blend multiple design disciplines will result in innovative solutions that transcend traditional boundaries. Collaborating with professionals from various fields, including engineers, artists, and educators, Jules will ensure that the walled garden becomes a holistic sanctuary, educating, nurturing, and inspiring all who enter its gates.
Both Mark and Jules share a deep-rooted connection to nature and sustainable living. Jules grew up on an acreage in Iowa, where she experienced firsthand the joys of gardening and living in harmony with the land. This upbringing sparked her desire to create spaces that reconnect individuals with nature, fostering a sense of wonder and tranquillity.
Similarly, Mark's journey into horticulture began in his childhood in Hertfordshire. From age 13, he was immersed in the enchanting world of plants at Rochfords Nursery, where his fascination with rare and unique specimens first took root. This early exposure to the wonders of nature and his hands-on experience at the nursery ignited his passion for creating unique natural environments and working with plants.
Mark and Jules are trying to create a unique and captivating experience within the Georgian walled kitchen garden. Their passion for rare plants, innovative design, and sustainable living will bring new life into this historic space. With their expertise and vision, they aim to create an enchanting sanctuary that inspires wonder, nurtures well-being, and allows visitors to connect with the beauty and magic of nature.
“With Mark and Jules at the helm, the Bothy Gardens are poised to become a haven of enchantment, where nature's wonders meet human imagination.”