In addition to teaching at Writtle College, Richard runs his own thriving garden design practice in which he combines his interest in art and the environment with the principles of good design. His design work has included the commissioning of art pieces for private gardens. His work with CADE has included a major consultancy concerning the use of outdoor green space as a healing resource in a hospital setting. His research combined a literature review of the latest findings on green spaces and recovery, with interviews of hospital staff and observational studies.