We caught up with Matt Maddocks, a sculptor based not too far from us in the Welsh hills, who we supplied paving for at this year's Chelsea Flower Show. Matt was drawn to our Branscombe Slate Paving for its natural rust deposits and grey tones that complemented his work with natural stone and added to the overall vision for his stand. This year Matt took the leap and opted for his largest-ever stand featuring an inviting orange wall and carefully curated pieces of furniture. His stunning natural stone sculptures took centre stage with the beautiful abstract designs set upon plinths and raised beds. Our National Trust Branscombe Slate Paving was laid with grass in between on either side with a fully paved area under the black-framed pagoda. We managed to catch him for a quick interview:

large abstract sculpture with branscombe slate paving in the background.

1. Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your craft?

I create a wide range of abstract stone sculptures, using all the aspects of natural stone to express myself as a sculptor.

2. How long have you been exhibiting at Chelsea?

Matt Maddocks LTD has been exhibiting at Chelsea Flower Show, for more than 10 years.

3. Can you talk us through your design process for this years stand?

This year for my standard Chelsea Flower Show, I decided to create a sculpture exhibition, using a very small pallet of materials, namely Stone sculptures and paving, metal wall and pagoda and Architectural Plants to the screen. Individual sculptures using a small pallet of colours allowed me to create a very stylish, minimal sculptural garden. 

branscombe slate paving wth table and chairs

4. How did you find Westminster Stone and what attracted you to them?

Working with Westminster Stone was fantastic as I had a wide range of different natural paving that complemented my work perfectly

5. Why did you choose Branscombe Slate Paving?

I chose Branscombe slate paving as it had a beautiful combination of colours.  The lovely natural grey slate mixed with an iron or deposit matched my colour palette to perfectly complement the core 10 walls and also match the natural mineral deposits found on the outside of my natural stonework

branscombe slate paving at chelsea flower show

6. What are your thoughts on Branscombe Slate paving?

Branscombe slate paving has a natural feel due to the mixed colour tones but also felt amazingly crisp and sharp, indoor or outdoor

7. What has your experience with Westminster Stone been like and would you recommend them?

My experience with Westminster, Stone has been fantastic and the team has been amazingly helping me find the perfect material to complement my exhibition this year.  I would highly recommend Westminster, Stone they have a wide experience and knowledge about each product and were happy to discuss the use of each of their products overall, my experience with Westminster Stone has been perfect for me and I will look forward to working with them again.

Matt Maddocks' Chelsea Flower Show stand exemplifies the perfect synergy between natural stone and thoughtful design. The Branscombe Slate Paving's earthy tones and subtle textures beautifully complemented Matt's sculptures, creating a stylish and minimal exhibition space. As Matt himself said, "the paving felt amazingly crisp and sharp, indoor or outdoor," highlighting its versatility and timeless appeal. Feeling inspired by Matt Maddocks' stunning garden design? Explore our collection of natural stone paving options, including the beautiful Branscombe Slate Paving

Shop Branscombe Slate Paving

This Paving adds a delightful charm and warmth to outdoor settings. Its aged appearance and rusty overtones beautifully complement the brown and grey hues within this unique slate. This natural slate paving takes inspiration from the timeless, magical ambience of the National Trust’s Branscombe Bay and provides an ethereal charm to coastal and cottage gardens alike.

Shop Branscombe Slate Paving
branscombe slate paving surrounded by green foliage.

About Matt Maddocks

Matt Maddocks standing besides a natural stone sculpture

Matt, Maddocks, LTD specialises in one-off abstract sculpture.

Enquiries at (07717) 623429

Website
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black and white portrait of author

About the Author

Sian McHugh

'Sian has been working with us at Westminster Stone for over 5 years and has developed expertise in garden design and landscaping. Her passion for nature extends to tending her own garden, teaching yoga and hiking during her free time.'