The starting block for our February ‘A Potting Shed Style’ instalment, believe it or not, started with a left over crate of old birch pieces and a few spare pots of gorgeous scented daffodils. The table, with a rusty metal top and wooden trestle legs, was the perfect size and colour for what we had in mind…….the black surroundings really makes the perfect backdrop.
The birch pieces were laid on the table, (don’t try this on a white tablecloth!) with glass candlesticks rising out through them. The daffodils have been ripped out of their pots with the bulbs still attached and clumped in and around the wood. Two sizes of a simple glass vase have been filled with delicate blue muscari and a buttery coloured double tulip, all linked together with handfuls of one of our favourites – muehlenbeckia. The fact that each material has not been mixed with another creates a very simple but striking effect, one that can undoubtedly be used again and again as to create this timeless style.
The colour of the table plays an important role in the whole effect, there is something about the combination of green, brown, blue and yellow that works so incredibly well together. The combination could also work well on a wooden table top! It is important to think about all the differing materials and colours when putting a scheme together but don’t overthink it, sometimes your initial instincts and ideas are the best, but just need tweaking to create the overall effect.
The wreath in the background is made of tree ivy, which is just perfect at this time of the year, interspersed with tangles of muehlenbeckia to create a very subtle and natural block of green.
It is good to think and try and visulaise the space you are trying to fill when decorating with fresh material and how the different heights and levels can help set and frame the scene.
The old wooden benches follow the lines of the table and suit the shape really well. As they have no back on them it allows a clear uninterrupted view to the decorations above them. The benches are surprisingly comfy, but the addition of a cushion or throw helps to add some warmth also.
The willow spheres add a playful note to proceedings, but also importantly accentuate the shape of the wreath in the background and the natural colour of the raw material is in complete harmony with the whole composition.
As night falls the whole scene changes to dramatic effect…..
Lots of fun was had during this shoot and it helps that it was the most beautiful early spring day.
Thanks to Kayleigh for the styling and photography
