From the theatre
to the garden.

Designer Oliver Charles at his drawing board creating planting and garden designs.
A smiling man in a white shirt and blue pants sitting on a green chair at a garden show, holding a phone, with pink flowers and garden displays in the background.

Oliver Charles, Director & Designer

MY JOURNEY

Born in Norwich, Oliver has built a successful career in theatre design and production in London, which aligns well with his passion for creating landscapes.

He holds a degree in theatre production and has enjoyed a successful career in stage lighting. By leveraging his spatial awareness and storytelling skills from his stage lighting work at the National Theatre, Oliver has successfully transitioned into landscape and planting design. He has built his business by connecting the garden design process with his previous work in production at the BBC.

He founded Oliver Charles Gardens & Associates Limited after gaining over five years of experience in horticulture, landscaping, and plant retail in West London and North Norfolk. His goal is to create inspiring outdoor spaces by drawing on his extensive professional and creative expertise throughout his career.

Oliver is an associate designer member of the British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI) and a member of the Chartered Institute of Horticulture (CHort). Oliver promotes best practices in horticulture. He is also involved with the Norfolk and Suffolk Gardens Trusts, charities dedicated to protecting gardens and designed landscapes in Norfolk and Suffolk.

Oliver traces his roots to the historic village of Surlingham, located on the Norfolk Broads. By returning to Norfolk. He seeks to establish his business, reconnect with his heritage, and leave his lasting legacy in garden and landscape design.