THE TEAM
CHALCRAFT & CLAY
It’s a Family Thing
Chalcraft & Clay is a distinguished family owned landscaping brand, led by the father and son partnership of Phil and James Hanks. United by a shared passion for craftsmanship and the natural world, they bring a signature blend of creativity, expertise, and green fingered precision to every outdoor space. Their commitment to quality, detail, and authentic family values shapes each project, delivering landscapes that feel refined, personal, and unmistakably Chalcraft & Clay.
The Chalcraft & Clay family
Phil Hanks – Chalcraft & Clay Founder
Hello, I’m Phil, the founder of Chalcraft & Clay. My journey working the land began as a young farm labourer on the fields of Alresford the very same fields my Great Grandfather tended many decades before. That early connection to the countryside sparked a lifelong passion for outdoor work and craftsmanship, eventually leading me to train as a horticultural mechanic.
As the years went on, I expanded my skills into golf course management, taking pride in maintaining beautiful, functional landscapes. This path later brought me to the role of Estates Manager at Old Alresford House, where I oversaw the care and preservation of its historic grounds.
In 2014, I founded Chalcraft & Clay to bring together everything I love the land, the craft, and the satisfaction of helping others enjoy their outdoor spaces. Today, I’m proud to share that passion with clients across Hampshire, offering experience rooted in heritage and a genuine commitment to quality
James Hanks – Chalcraft & Clay Director
Hello, I’m James I officially joined Chalcraft & Clay in 2019, marking the moment the company proudly became a father and son business. But his connection to the work began long before that. From a young age, James spent weekends alongside his dad, helping out on the golf course and learning the value of hard work, attention to detail, and respect for the land.
Those early experiences shaped my passion for outdoor craftsmanship and gave me a deep understanding of the family trade. Today, James brings energy, skill, and a fresh perspective to Chalcraft & Clay, continuing the tradition while helping to shape its future.
Gardening is in our blood, click below to see the history behind the Chalcraft & Clay name…
