Peter Styles

Finding inspiration in nature

The founder’s career path began with a deep interest in plants, landscapes and how people interact with the natural world. While studying botanical horticulture at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, the seed was planted for a future in landscape architecture. This passion led to further study, completing a Diploma in Landscape Architecture and achieving professional chartership.

Early career experiences were gained in London, working as a landscape architect for the Greater London Council and several London Boroughs. These roles provided invaluable insight into large-scale public projects, urban environments, and the impact thoughtful landscape design can have on communities.

But alongside this experience grew a desire for independence and greater responsibility - an ambition to shape not just designs, but direction.

Building a business

That ambition led to joining a private practice, where over time the opportunity arose to take on greater leadership. The decision to open a new office in Newtown, Powys, marked a significant step - bringing professional landscape architecture expertise closer to Wales and strengthening local connections.

As previous directors retired, the business evolved. In 2002, the company was incorporated, with sole ownership and leadership passing to the current Managing Director. Since then, Lingard Farrow Styles has grown steadily, expanding its client base and working on a diverse range of projects across the UK.

Today, the practice is supported by a studio team of five professionals, combining technical expertise, creativity and collaboration.

The reality of being your own boss

For the founder, the greatest reward of running the business is independence - the freedom to make decisions, set direction, and shape the culture of the company. But that freedom comes with responsibility.

Being an employer means more than delivering projects. It means ensuring the wellbeing of the team, providing stability, and making sure salaries are paid every month. Leadership, mentoring and teamwork sit at the heart of the business, alongside design expertise.

With a background as a qualified horticulturist and landscape architect, the role has expanded to include mentor, teacher and team leader - helping others develop skills and confidence in their own careers.

Resilience through challenging times

Like many businesses, Lingard Farrow Styles has faced its share of challenges. Before incorporation, during a period of economic recession, the practice experienced significant financial difficulty. Entering into a voluntary arrangement was a hugely challenging time -both personally and professionally.

However, the business survived, restructured and emerged stronger. Over the past 20+ years, the company has weathered multiple recessions, adapting to change while continuing to deliver quality work and maintain strong client relationships.

This resilience is now one of the business’s greatest strengths.

A message for future entrepreneurs

The story behind Lingard Farrow Styles shows that success rarely follows a straight line. It takes commitment, adaptability and the willingness to face difficult moments head‑on. From early inspiration at Kew Gardens to leading a respected design practice, this journey proves that passion combined with perseverance can build something that lasts.

For young people dreaming of running their own business, the message is clear:
be curious, be resilient, take responsibility - and don’t be afraid to back yourself.