About us

Colin and Chantal Elliott moved to the Loire Valley of central France after a successful 30-year career throughout the gardening industry. Having created and run the Design and Landscape Centre for more than 15 years they now pass on their knowledge and experience through the Garden Design Academy.

The Design and Landscape Centre was well-known for its innovative use of new technologies and Colin was an early advocate for the use of the internet and CAD by garden designers.

Chabris was chosen as the site of the Academy for a number of reasons. It is very accessible thanks to first-class high-speed rail links, its position within France’s excellent motorway system and the proximity of airports. It is easy to reach within a day from the UK and most of Europe.

Situated in the heart of France, with the chateaux and gardens of the Loire Valley on our doorstep, it is an attractive place to visit both for study and leisure.