Inspiration

We’re almost in March now so springtime is most definitely just around the corner.  I have been thinking about some of the best gardens to visit in the South East to see the spring bulbs, so here are a few to get you started…

1.  RHS Garden Wisley, Surrey – The bulbs at Wisley have already started to emerge and only last week they were a picture of gorgeousness.  The snowdrops and cyclamen are soon to be joined by crocus and the early narcissus are also glowing like some much needed sunshine.

2.  Hever Castle, Kent – The snow drops are the main star of the show at Hever Castle in spring where the snow drop trail is open from now until 27th February – perhaps a good place to take the kids during half-term week!?

3.  Sissinghurst Castle & Garden, Kent – I always seem to visit Sissinghurst in the spring, so I am determined to make a visit during the summer months this year!  In March, the garden is a picture of loveliness with all the spring bulbs.

4.  Winkworth Arboretum, Surrey – Winkworth is gorgeous whatever time of year you choose to visit, but the best time is in late April/early May when the woodland floor is a sea of bluebells.  The Magnolias and Azaleas look spectacular too!

5.  Kew Gardens – The amazing display of spring bulbs starts in March and lasts throughout the spring.  You’ll see snowdrops, crocus, daffodils, snake’s head fritillary, scilla, tulips, to name but a few, along with a fantastic display of cherry tree blossom.

It’s also worth looking at the National Garden Scheme website to see whether there are any private gardens open near you.

Winter personalities have a powerful stillness and strength and can command authority without saying a word. They are cool and objective and have confidence in their own abilities.  They know what they want, are highly motivated and very ambitious.  They are natural leaders and have a flair for business but, because they genuinely enjoy their own company, they can be perceived as being cold and arrogant. Read more

The autumn personalities are passionate, strong, warm, friendly and earthy.  They are very interested in others and learning about the world and environment.  They can appear a bit bossy or rebellious, but their natural enthusiasm and organised and practical nature makes them great leaders and campaigners. Read more

The summer personality is all about timeless elegance and cool sophistication and people reflecting the patterns of summer have a dreamy, romantic quality. They love good quality and classic design and work calmly with great attention to detail, persevering to get the job done.  They are quietly supportive and will be very sensitive to the needs of others around them.  Born diplomats, summer personalities enjoy creating order out of chaos and are natural peacemakers and nurturers. Read more

So you now know a bit more about where the colour personalities come from, but what is the character of each of the seasons and which objects and elements would really get them excited about the garden? Read more

Back at the beginning of November you may recall that I wrote a blog post about my new-found knowledge of colour psychology and how it has changed the way that I approach my design work.  Over the course of the next week or so I would like to share with you some more about the colour personalities and how these relate to the design world and I hope that you find it as fascinating as I do! Read more

I had a meeting at Wisley this morning so decided to get there a little early so that I was able to have a quick walk round.  What stood out amongst the crowd was the witch hazel (hamamelis) which has just started to come into flower. Read more

1.  Acer griseum (Paper Bark Maple) – gorgeous peeling bronze bark glows a warm cinnamon-red in winter and has rich scarlet leaves in autumn.  It’s a great specimen for a small garden as it is slow growing and has a very attractive habit. Read more

When I am designing gardens, my first thoughts are about creating balance and harmony within the space.The proportions must be right and the general feel of the garden really has to fit in with the house and surrounding area otherwise it will never feel as if it truly belongs there. One integral element of visualising the new garden is to establish where the focal points are located within the new design, as it is these spaces that will create and encourage movement through the garden. Read more

I love Christmas, the feasting, the games, the presents, and the excitement it brings to children, but by the time Boxing Day is upon us I’m normally itching to get out in the fresh air!  It’s traditional for many families to walk on Boxing Day and if you step foot on Box Hill, you certainly won’t be alone. Read more