John argues against long standing protocol within public space and horticulture. He suggests structural complexity is overlooked in landscape design and is more important than plant choice.
Since starting the grassroofcompany.co.uk in 1998, he has designed and built over 400 small green roof buildings, combining deep biodiverse green roofs with walls of breeding and hibernation space.
After 18 years caring for the green space on Clapton Park estate, Hackney, he produced a sustainable grounds maintenance contract that puts people first.
In 2007 John’s company was awarded Silver Gilt at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show for a garden based on the work they pioneer for the green spaces within social housing. John worked closely with the residents of the Clapton Park Estate, Hackney – in fact it was the first time a council estate had entered the show.
He questions our obsession with specifying topsoil in all new projects, especially on highways and new developments. Habitat trials at his home include a garden designed with spoil from the local road widening scheme, industrial and construction waste.
In 2008 he launched a range of small green roof shelters based on shipping containers and designed portable structures including bike and bin storage. greenroofshelters.co.uk
In 2025 he started a not for profit to offer free training for gardeners in everything other than horticulture. The important stuff. carenotcapital.org
