Showing posts with label Outdoor spaces. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Outdoor spaces. Show all posts

Tuesday, May 12, 2015

Urban Oasis Envy

Come summer time and outdoor spaces become an extension of our homes – patios are abuzz with alfresco soirees, terrace spaces encourage one to stretch out and view the constellations in the clear summer skies, the porches furnished with rocking chairs make for the perfect spot to rock oneself to sleep in the gentle evening breeze and the garden landscape studded with glorious color makes for a perfect setting for an afternoon tea party! Whatever may be the reason, my heart refuses to stay indoors and looks for every possible excuse to enjoy what the outdoors has to offer. I recently spotted these two gorgeous spaces on Elle Décor that had me smitten at the very first glance. Part of a sprawling Florida home, the simplicity of design just stole my heart. The only thing missing in the patio setting that features the antique Spanish lanterns and the custom made banquette sporting comfy cushions is some wonderful margaritas!
Look at this view! The terrace of the home overlooks the Gulf of Mexico. Absolutely love the global vibe to this space - Syrian bone-inlaid furniture and colorful Suzanis and kilims infuse the space with the right amount of color and pattern. To take a tour of the entire home click here.

Have a wonderful day!

Image Courtesy : Elle Decor

Wednesday, July 9, 2014

Turning Up the Color Outdoors

Gardening to me is way to collaborate with "Nature". I'm usually the kind of person who likes to be in control of everything (well almost everything..;). But ever since I began gardening, I've come to realize of who's actually in-charge and who get's to control, direct and take the lead when it comes to the landscape outside. The duration of each plant's lifespan is under the direction of Mother Nature. And that's what makes gardening such a joy is to be able to partner with such an influential force and turn the outdoor canvas into a collaborative work of art.
Here in Virginia, gardening is not an easy task. The seasons take a toll on the gardens and there's a lot of damage control to be done after winter. This year though we did a little planning ahead of time and planted bulbs belonging to the "Blazing Star", Dahlias and Tulips family to amplify the color quotient of the pathway to my door. These plants not only add an exotic feel to the area but also help to paint large sections with bold strokes of color. 
I've landscaped every inch of soil at my disposal and I know I've done it right, when I see the bees and butterflies partying hard in my garden. Here are a few closeups of the exquisite beauties from my garden......... 


I like treating my outdoor spaces as an extension of my indoors. Materializing that thought process, I've also managed to create a little private oasis for my family by incorporating weather resistant furniture, potted plants in colorful containers, and beautiful garden accessorizes. By drawing inspiration from the colors used in my sunroom and favoring deep hues ranging from reds, oranges to pinks, the space flows effortlessly once the doors are thrown open for entertaining.

The outdoor walls do not give me the liberty to hang shelves to display plants. However, my end of the season bargain hunts were fruitful and I landed myself these wrought iron plant display stands that give me the room to add layers of interest at different levels. 

Colorful watering cans are not only functional but also add a dash of color and can be used as a garden/outdoor accessory too. 

I hope you enjoyed the snapshots of my garden tour and I do wish you find your outdoor calling and enjoy every facet of gardening be it the anticipation of a new leaf, bud or flower, the mystery of not knowing how the season is going to contour the garden, the sense of contentment when things go as planned, or the angst of watching a loving plant struggling to thrive.........


You'll take care and do drop me a line as I love hearing from you'll. As for now, I'm going to pack my bags for a weekend trip to New York, so miss me while I'm gone.......see you'll back here next week :)

Images: Clicked by me. Please do not use without prior written permission. 
Images are the property of Sruthi Singh and subject to copyright.