Posts by Karen Chapman
Inspiration from RHS Wisley
Earlier this year I had the opportunity to visit the historic home of the Royal Horticultural Society: RHS Garden Wisley. Like its northern counterpart RHS Harlow Carr which I have visited several times, it is jam-packed with inspiration for home gardeners and designers alike. Since I was visiting in May, that helped me narrow my…
Read MoreOutside Style: Book Review & Giveaway
I'm not even waiting until this one is available for sale before I tell you about it – I'm that excited! But let me start at the beginning… I met the author, Ryan McEnaney several years ago over a glass of wine – sauvignon blanc to be specific. We were at a conference for garden…
Read More5 Design Lessons from The Best of the Best
I've just returned from leading a tour to Gardens of the Delaware and Brandywine Valleys. Such a fabulous group of fun-loving guests! Looking back over my many photographs I realized that in our excitement to visit outstanding gardens we can sometimes find it hard to see the 'take-home ideas', especially if our climate or plant…
Read MoreBefore & After: Evolution Of A Transformation
Do you enjoy those instant makeover TV shows where a crew shows up and magically transforms an uninspiring garden into a magazine -worthy showcase in seven days? Well guess what – that is NOT the reality for most homeowners, and neither is it always the best solution. Not every garden renovation is quick but allowing…
Read MoreChelsea Flower Show 2022: Favorite Garden Overall
Every detail spoke to me: the rich yet restrained color palette, the clear geometry bringing order, the use of the diagonal axis to expand perception of space, the layering of plants and of materials and the exquisite metal design used both for the pavilion and rill. I stood trying to absorb it all for at…
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