MIMSTUDIOS

MIMStudios collaborated with garden designer Alexa Ryan Mills to design the Sadler’s Wells East Garden for the world-renowned RHS Chelsea Flower Show. This garden celebrates the next generation of dancers and dance lovers as Sadler’s Wells East prepares to open its new theatre, Hip Hop Theatre Academy, and Choreographic School in East Bank, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, in 2024.

Inspired by the dynamic energy of hip hop dance, the garden design brings a sense of movement and rhythm into the landscape. Our architectural contribution focused on creating a “dancing” saw-toothed steel sculpture that runs through the garden, unifying three protruding stages and framing views into the landscape. As visitors move through the space, the sculpture “dances” along with them, capturing different perspectives and highlighting the vibrant plant arrangements.

The materials used in the garden reflect the industrial heritage of East London, with reclaimed and sustainably sourced brick, timber, and metal. The sculptural form itself is a nod to the saw-tooth rooflines of local warehouses and factories, connecting the garden’s design to the architecture of Sadler’s Wells East.

The garden’s planting is equally expressive, with characterful trees and shrubs serving as the primary performers. Colourful perennials and annuals fill the garden, mimicking the layers and movements of dance, creating a vibrant display of texture and colour.

Following the show, the plants and materials were repurposed at School 21, an associate school of Sadler’s Wells, reinforcing the garden’s connection to the local community.

Sculpture Fabrication: Fish Fabrications

Contractor: Big Fish Landscapes

Photos by Alister Thorpe