Project Overview
At the prestigious 2024 New Forest Show in Dorset, we were given the opportunity to create a trade stand that would not only attract visitors but also transport them to an exotic, tropical paradise. Our vision was clear: to design an enchanting garden inspired by the lush, vibrant landscapes of the tropical rainforest. The result was a stunning, immersive space that combined natural beauty with innovative design.
Design Concept
The core of our design revolved around creating a serene and captivating environment. We aimed to encapsulate the essence of the rainforest through the thoughtful selection of materials and a meticulous attention to detail. The garden was framed by a wrap-around wall, crafted from Millboard’s Weathered Oak Vintage composite decking, which provided an aged, rustic charm. The centrepiece was an exquisite deck made from Ipe, a luxurious exotic hardwood known for its rich colour and exceptional durability.
Why Ipe Hardwood Was the Perfect Choice
For the deck at the New Forest Show, we knew that Ipe was the ideal material. This exotic hardwood is renowned for its strength, density, and rich, natural color that deepens over time. Ipe is also one of the most durable hardwoods available, naturally resistant to decay, insects, and weathering, which made it a perfect fit for an outdoor environment exposed to the elements. Our supplier for this material, South Gate Timber, ensured the decking boards were all FSC® certified which further assured us that we were using a sustainably sourced product, aligning with our commitment to environmental responsibility.
The smooth, double-sided finish of the Ipe decking provided versatility in design, allowing us to achieve a polished, seamless look that was both luxurious and resilient. For a high-traffic area like a trade stand at a major show, it was essential to use a material that could endure constant use while still offering a refined appearance, and Ipe delivered on all fronts.
Enhancing the Design with Millboard Weathered Oak Vintage
To create a striking contrast with the Ipe deck and enhance the exotic atmosphere of the garden, we chose Millboard’s Weathered Oak Vintage composite decking for the wrap-around wall. This composite material is designed to replicate the natural beauty and texture of aged oak, bringing a rustic yet timeless element to the design. Unlike traditional wood, Millboard composite decking is incredibly low maintenance—resistant to rot, warping, and fading—which made it an ideal choice for a temporary installation like this one.
The slip-resistant surface of the Millboard decking added a layer of safety for visitors, particularly important in the damp conditions that can often occur at outdoor events like the New Forest Show. The weathered oak finish also added depth and warmth to the space, complementing the vibrant greenery of the garden and contributing to the overall exotic feel.
Minster Decking is one of few Millboard-Approved installers in the UK, giving us additional confidence that selecting this material was a great choice for the tradeshow display.
Crafting a Bespoke Decking Experience in Dorset
Every aspect of this project was carefully considered to create a cohesive and captivating experience for visitors. From the selection of premium materials like Ipe hardwood and Millboard composite decking to the execution of the design, our focus was on delivering a high-quality, bespoke decking installation that stood out at the New Forest Show.
Our team’s expertise in decking design and installation ensured that the final result was not only visually stunning but also functional and durable. We're extremely proud of the end result.
This decking installation was completed in Brockenhurt
At Minster Decking, we work on a wide variety of decking projects within Dorset and Hampshire. From design, installation, repairs, maintenance and replacement - we have you covered.
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Inspired by our work at the New Forest Show? Contact us to discuss how we can bring your vision to life with custom decking designs and installations that are tailored to your unique needs.