Remi Bint and Hamish Putt won Gold and Silver awards respectively at Ellerslie Flower Show in 2004. Their aim for this year’s Show is to combine their skills to create an innovative design installation for the Design Marquee.

Remi first developed his passion for design while at high school in New Plymouth, prompting him to complete a Bachelor of Design at Victoria University. Remi is now in his third year of study, specialising in landscape architecture.

At the 2004 Show Remi won the Gold medal for his involvement in the Flemings Student Design competition. As part of this prize, which is hugely supported by Flemings Nurseries in Australia, Remi was flown to the Melbourne International Flower Garden to oversee the construction of his garden as the New Zealand winner of the competition.

“It was an unbelievable experience,” says Remi. “It has enabled me to gain a different perspective and new inspiration for my design work. I am really grateful to Flemings Nurseries for their help and encouragement.”

Remi hopes to complete his studies at the end of 2006 and continue on to pursue a career as a landscape architect.

Hamish Putt is also in his third year of study towards a Bachelor of Design at Victoria University. Also specialising in landscape architecture, Hamish was introduced to the fields of landscape design and construction while living in Hawkes Bay. Hamish worked in a nursery and garden center during this time, and his part-time work turned into fulltime employment in the industry once he completed school. 

“My involvement in this field, coupled with my interest in design, inspired me to begin studies in landscape architecture,” says Hamish.

Hamish has worked on a significant variety of projects, from domestic gardens to large stonework projects. He says the knowledge and insight he has gained over the years have provided him with the inspiration for his design projects.

These boys are definitely the gardening world’s next big thing – watch out for their creative talents at the Design Marquee at this year’s Show.