An array of living plants formed a delightful sensory and cerebral experience

A unique horticultural exhibit, Sweet Addiction told the story of chocolate: its origins, production methods and extraordinary popularity across the globe. 

Planted by a team of expert horticulturalists from the Royal Botanic Gardens, an array of living plants created a delightful sensory and cerebral experience for the visitor. The exhibition explored all aspects of chocolate: the ecology of the cacao plant, the history of chocolate and its global spread, production methods and its physiological effects on the body. FRD designed a truly hands-on experience, with visitors encouraged to immerse themselves by feeling and smelling organic materials. These interactive elements were supplemented with multimedia installations such as graphic panels, interpretive text and audio-visual displays.

Sweet Addiction was housed within the Calyx exhibition building. Drawing inspiration from Ken Wooley’s adjoining Glasshouse Arc, the Calyx was constructed in 2016 by PTW and McGregor Coxall to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Royal Botanic Garden’s establishment.