plants@work would like to congratulate Ian Drummond, plants@work Secretary and Ambassador, on receiving yet another accolade during his remarkable 40-year career in horticulture.

Ian has been recognised for his service and contribution to the horticultural industry, particularly within the houseplant and interior landscaping sector, after being named among the recipients at the SME Business Elite Awards.

The latest recognition comes during Ian’s Ruby Jubilee, marking 40 years since he began his career in horticulture. It adds to an impressive list of honours and achievements during this special anniversary year.

Speaking about the recognition, Ian said:

“I am overwhelmed by all the recognition I have received this year for my work within the industry that I love so much and delighted to see it continues to grow and get stronger.”

Ian has spent four decades championing the role of plants in interior spaces and helping to demonstrate how planting can be an integral part of the design and experience of buildings.

His career began in floristry at the age of 13, followed by a horticultural apprenticeship at 16. Over the years, he has worked across floristry, horticulture, interior landscaping and botanical design, developing a distinctive approach that combines plants, architecture and creativity.

Today, Ian is Creative Director of Ian Drummond Botanical Design and the author of the best-selling book At Home With Plants. His portfolio includes high-profile projects for organisations and events including the Elton John AIDS Foundation, BAFTA and London Fashion Week.

Ian describes this approach as “living architecture”, reflecting the growing recognition that plants can be much more than decoration. They can influence the atmosphere of a space, create privacy and screening, connect people with nature and contribute to the experience of the people who use a building.

As plants@work Secretary and Ambassador, he continues to contribute his considerable experience and knowledge to the association and to promote the importance of plants, biophilic design and the professional interior landscaping sector. He has also been a strong advocate for greater diversity and inclusion within horticulture and the wider industry.

Ian’s 40th anniversary year has already brought a remarkable collection of industry recognition.

Alongside the latest SME Business Elite Award, Ian has:

• Been made a Member of the Kew Guild

• Received the RHS Long Service Medal

• Been presented with a special plants@work Ruby Watering Can to mark 40 years in horticulture

• Received a UK Business Award for Best in Horticulture within the houseplant sector

•  Been included in Horticulture Week’s Houseplant Garden Industry Leaders list

• Been shortlisted for the Pro Landscaper Landscaping Champion Award

• And now received recognition at the SME Business Elite Awards.

plants@work would like to congratulate Ian on another gong in his long and distinguished career – and thank him for his continued enthusiasm, creativity and commitment to our industry.

Here’s to the next chapter!