Richard has written three books, each one growing out of the same conviction: that gardens are not a finishing touch, but a foundation. That the time we spend outside — digging, planting, watching things change with the seasons — makes us more grounded, more attentive, and genuinely happier. Whether you’re working with a small city balcony or a sprawling backyard, these books meet you where you are and give you the confidence to grow.
The City Gardener
Richard’s second book The City Gardener profilestwenty projects, all within ten kilometres of Sydney’s CBD, to demonstrate the art of inner-city garden design. Through these diverse spaces, Unsworth offers practical, inspiring guidance for transforming compact urban plots into functional and beautiful liveable gardens — no matter how limited the space.
The Natural Gardener
Richard’s latest book, The Natural Gardener invites readers to reconnect with nature through their own gardens. Drawing on the portfolio of work within his design practice with Studio UC, The Natural Gardener shares real projects, practical guidance on bush regeneration, and techniques for restoring weed-choked sites — plus inspiring ways to work with natural landscaping materials.
Garden Life
Garden Life draws on the early years of Richard’s early career as a garden designer, ranging far beyond design alone. It explores setting up community gardens, sourcing food and where to find it, and recounts his overseas trips sourcing pieces for his shop, Garden Life — a rich, wide-ranging journey.
