RDI Address 2024

The 2024 RDI address will be delivered by multi-award-winning landscape designer Tom Stuart-Smith and author of ‘The Well Gardened Mind’, Dr Sue Stuart-Smith.

Tom Stuart-Smith’s work forges connections between people and place. Bringing an analytical design approach together with a detailed understanding of the nature of a place, Tom’s practice is underpinned by a strong sustainability ethic. Seeking to increase the ecological diversity and richness of any landscape in which he works, his aim is to create multi-layered new spaces of emotional depth and imaginative possibility.

Sue Stuart-Smith is a prominent psychiatrist, psychotherapist, and author. Her book ‘The Well Gardened Mind’ explores the power of gardening to answer deep human needs and change lives.

Tom and Sue have recently founded The Serge Hill Project for Gardening, Creativity and Health – a not-for-profit initiative aiming to foster community inclusion through gardening and other forms of creativity, based on the understanding that working with nature can radically transform people’s health and wellbeing. 

Prior the address, three new Royal Designers for Industry (RDI) and four new Honorary Royal Designers for Industry will be welcomed to the Faculty.  

The title ‘Royal Designer for Industry’ is awarded annually by the RSA to designers of all disciplines who have achieved sustained design excellence, work of aesthetic value and significant benefit to society. 

The RDI is the highest accolade for designers in the UK. Only 200 designers can hold the title. Non-UK designers may become honorary Royal Designers. 

The ‘Royal Designers’ are responsible for designing the world around us, enriching our cultural heritage, driving innovation, inspiring creativity in others and improving our quality of life.  

Note: this event will take place at RSA House and will be live-streamed online – please ensure to register for the correct ticket type to avoid disappointment