Richard E Grant's Enchanted Garden: A Tribute to Film and Family

Richard E Grant's garden in Richmond, London, is a distinctive blend of personal memories and cinematic history. Instead of traditional flowers, the garden is adorned with props and decorations from various films, including Emerald Fennell’s 2023 film *Saltburn* and the 2022 adaptation of Jane Austen’s *Persuasion*. Grant has transformed this space into a venue for entertaining friends, including notable figures like Meryl Streep and Paul Rudd, and has recently opened it to the public through the Royal Horticultural Society’s podcast, *Roots*.

The Guardian

Among the garden's highlights is a colorful proscenium arch from *Saltburn*, which Grant acquired after negotiating with the production team. Initially, they intended to discard the arch due to storage costs, but Grant successfully convinced them to let him keep it. Another prominent feature is a commissioned faux marble bust of Barbra Streisand, which Grant proudly displays, having shared the story of its creation with her personally.

The Guardian

The garden also features faux marble pillars from *Persuasion*, which Grant salvaged after filming, and two plinths from *Gladiator II*, which he found on a skip while working at Shepperton Studios. Additionally, a bespoke pergola serves as a gathering spot for parties, complete with a fire pit, showcasing Grant's love for hosting.

The Guardian

In a whimsical touch, Grant has decorated his garden with Christmas ornaments, including silver baubles and fairy lights, which he acquired from a local perfumery after they were discarded post-holiday. This festive atmosphere is a reflection of his personal tastes and adds a unique charm to the garden.

The Guardian

The garden also holds deep personal significance for Grant, particularly following the death of his wife, Joan Washington, in 2021. She requested that her ashes be buried under a cherry tree in the garden, a task Grant has yet to fulfill due to emotional ties. He describes the experience of living in the house as communal since his daughter and her husband moved in during the COVID-19 pandemic, bringing new life and energy to the space.

The Guardian

Looking ahead, Grant envisions further enhancements to the garden, potentially including a slide and trampoline for his soon-to-arrive grandchild, symbolizing a new chapter in his life.

The Guardian

Richard E Grant has expressed his affection for the garden, stating, “It’s a space where I can celebrate my life and memories.” He emphasizes the importance of this personal sanctuary, especially after experiencing loss, and how it has become a place of joy and connection for his family.

The Guardian

• “I go to the production department and try and buy or bribe my way” — Richard E Grant

The Guardian

• “I had a conversation with her and I said at the end of it, ‘I have something to confess …” — Richard E Grant

The Guardian

• “They said: ‘No, we’d be grateful if you could take them off us.’ So I got all of them. I like Christmas, as you can see. So there’s Christmas lights on every day, all year, day and night.” — Richard E Grant

The Guardian

• “Rationally, I understand that’s what she wanted. But emotionally, this box of ashes is the last thing that I physically have of her. So I haven’t buried them because I thought, ‘Well, if I leave this house, then I can’t take the ashes with me.’” — Richard E Grant

The Guardian

Richard E Grant's garden serves as a vibrant testament to his career and personal life, blending the worlds of film and family in a uniquely expressive way.

The Guardian