Why are we called Kent & Stowe?
Have you ever wondered why we are called Kent & Stowe? The name is steeped in history, celebrating the rich heritage of English garden design and the visionaries who transformed outdoor spaces into works of art.
Why Kent?
Kent, often referred to as "The Garden of England," is renowned for its abundance of beautiful gardens and lush landscapes. This county has long been synonymous with horticultural excellence, making it the perfect inspiration for a brand dedicated to gardening.
Why Stowe?
The name "Stowe" pays homage to Stowe House in Buckinghamshire, a Grade I listed country estate that stands as a breathtaking example of 18th century English landscape gardens. Stowe House and its gardens represent a pivotal moment in the evolution of garden design. The estate was owned by a single family for nearly 350 years and has hosted royal visits, family feuds, and countless stories over the centuries. Today, Stowe is managed by the National Trust and remains a significant landmark of English heritage.
Stowe House, Buckinghamshire
William Kent: A Pioneer of English Landscape Gardens
William Kent, born in 1685, was an eminent English architect and garden designer whose work revolutionised the layout of country estates. Kent introduced a naturalistic style of gardening at Stowe, moving away from rigid symmetry and formal designs to create flowing, picturesque landscapes. His visionary approach earned him a lasting legacy, and Stowe is one of his most celebrated projects.
The gardens at Stowe are widely recognised as one of the first and finest examples of the "English Landscape Garden" style. These gardens blended artistry with functionality, creating spaces that were both practical and poetic. By incorporating Kent’s name into our brand, Kent & Stowe honours his groundbreaking contributions to garden design.
The Influence of Capability Brown
Kent’s work laid the foundation for another monumental figure in garden design: Lancelot “Capability” Brown (1716–1783). Often called “England’s greatest gardener,” Brown refined Kent’s vision, creating sweeping parklands, serpentine lakes, and harmonious landscapes that blurred the boundaries between gardens and nature. His designs transformed estates such as Blenheim Palace, Chatsworth House, and Stowe into timeless masterpieces.
Chatsworth House, Bakewell
Brown’s philosophy focused on enhancing the “capabilities” of the land, reshaping the English countryside into idealised visions of nature. His work elevated garden design into an art form, cementing the "English Landscape Garden" as a symbol of elegance and sophistication.
A Capability Brown Garden
How Kent & Stowe Reflects This Legacy
The name Kent & Stowe pays tribute to the pioneering spirit of both William Kent and Capability Brown. By linking our brand to these visionaries, we draw inspiration from their dedication to blending nature with art and their commitment to thoughtful craftsmanship.
Our tools are crafted to embody the same principles that defined their work: elegance, functionality, and a passion for natural beauty. Just as Kent and Brown reimagined landscapes, Kent & Stowe seeks to transform gardening for enthusiasts today. Each spade, fork, and trowel combines timeless tradition with modern performance, empowering gardeners to create their own stunning outdoor spaces.
The Capability Trowel, named after Capability Brown.
A Heritage of Garden Innovation
Kent & Stowe is more than just a name; it’s a connection to centuries of garden innovation. Inspired by the artistry of Kent and Brown, our brand celebrates the transformative power of gardening. Whether you’re cultivating a modest flowerbed or designing a grand landscape, Kent & Stowe provides the tools to make your vision a reality.
In every product, we honour the legacy of two giants who reshaped the way we view and design gardens. Together, we carry their tradition forward, blending timeless craftsmanship with the needs of the modern gardener.
With the right tools, extraordinary things are possible.
