IT IS IN THE DNA
Over 15 years in the making
For any garden design, it’s essential to begin with a concept that is both meaningful and relevant. An unexpected discovery led us to an exciting starting point: our co-joined initials, CG AT (Caroline Georgina & Andrew Thomson), align with the base pairs of DNA—the foundation of all life as we understand it.
The DNA double helix, comprised of (A) adenine, (G) guanine, (C) cytosine, and (T) thymine, became the inspiration for the design. Two DNA pathways, with a double helix structure and cobbled edges, run from the east and west, converging at the central centromere sculpture. This powerful symbolism forms the heart of Backhouse Rossie’s garden, a space that blends the themes of Art & Science.
A Garden Steeped in History and Legacy
Step into the unfolding story of the Backhouse family, a remarkable lineage of Quaker horticulturists whose legacy is being revived by the 6th generation.
Upon entering through an oak door, you’ll find the space divided vertically by parallel yew hedges, which back wide, stone-edged herbaceous borders. These borders are designed with an artistic concept in mind: “There Are No Borders Here”. Plants from different countries are intermingled, left to grow freely and assert their own boundaries, reflecting the garden’s philosophy of unity and diversity.
The space is also defined by a striking pathway, laid out with cobblestones in the shape of a double helix, inlaid with crushed white sea shells. This design, inspired by the combined initials of Caroline and Andrew—representing the bases of DNA—honours both science and art. Caroline explains: “Our joint interests as an engineer and an artist, whose combined initials form the bases of DNA, became the starting point for the garden. The crushed shells are a reference to Cave 13b, where the earliest evidence of shellfish exploitation was documented, connecting us to the first signs of human endeavour by the ‘shell people’ in South Africa.”
In the summer, the garden comes alive with the longest interrupted rose archway in Scotland, covered by Rosa City of York, a nod to the Backhouse Nursery’s roots in York.
The south-west quarter of the garden features an orchard, planted with historic apple and plum varieties. In the north-west quarter, a parterre blooms with cut flowers, the daffodil collection, and vegetables, all grown using the principles of biodynamics.
The grounds also hold the remains of a Covenanter’s tomb, which adventurous visitors can explore by scaling the two stone styles. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the rich history that surrounds this unique space.
Backhouse Rossie Estate is a deeply personal and thought-provoking garden, shaped by the passions and interests of its owners. With themes of art, science, and family woven throughout, the garden’s design concepts, layouts, and plant selections all reflect these core values. Each element is thoughtfully curated to create a space that is as intellectually engaging as it is visually stunning, inviting visitors to explore the connections between nature, creativity, and heritage.
