Antigua and Barbuda has secured a Silver Gilt Medal at the 2025 RHS Chelsea Flower Show in London with their exhibit ‘A Glimpse into the Past.’
The Caribbean nation’s first-ever entry captivated judges and visitors alike with its thoughtful portrayal of the islands’ cultural heritage and unique natural environment. The exhibit was presented by the Antigua and Barbuda Horticultural Society (ABHS), under the patronage of Their Excellencies the Governor General and Lady Williams.
A Silver Gilt Medal, one point away from a Gold Medal, is a high honour and reflects the exceptional quality, design, and execution of the presentation.
Designed by husband-and-wife team Michael Hunte and Imogen Margrie Hunte, the display skilfully wove together elements of the islands’ history and ecology. Traditional items including sugar cane, cotton, and rum barrels featured prominently, while chained palms served as a poignant reminder of the nation’s slavery past.
A section inspired by Barbuda showcased the island’s distinctive features, including a representation of the Fallow Deer (Dama Dama) and a pathway of pink sand decorated with cut conch shells—evoking the island’s renowned coastal beauty.
The plant selection celebrated Antigua and Barbuda’s drier climate, offering a striking contrast to the lush displays typically seen from the southern Caribbean. Both visitors and judges were drawn to the thoughtful storytelling and artistic execution of the exhibit.
The participation was made possible through funding from the Halo Foundation, with additional support from sponsors including Caribbean Alliance Insurance, Mill Reef Fund, the Harrison Foundation, Friends of the Horticultural Society, Leo Hagerman, June & David Dickinson, Janey Henderson Howell and Family, and Sam Fuller Landscapes.
The RHS Chelsea Flower Show, widely regarded as the world’s leading horticultural exhibition, attracts top designers and garden specialists globally. This Silver Medal achievement marks a significant milestone for Antigua and Barbuda, elevating the nation’s standing in the international gardening community.
