Spring garden inspiration

Spring into life

More than just a season, spring is a feeling. Birds are nesting, the garden is green and flower buds are opening. It’s time for us to open up our homes too, and embrace Mother Nature’s fresh outlook, to capture the spirit of the season. Rejuvenate spaces with zesty hues, charming craft projects, timber and rattan outdoor furniture, and a bit of flower power. Homes of all eras will feel fresher with a few D.I.Y. touches to usher in that spring feeling.

Make an entrance

Dress your front entry to set the scene of your home, says stylist Melle Van Sambeek. “I always think that the entrance of a house is a little bit of a taste of what’s to come inside. It’s the first impression of your home,” she says. Freshen up yours with pops of colour such as sage and rose pink, combined with natural materials like a coir doormat and a timber storage box that doubles as a seat. And decorative wreaths aren’t just for Christmas – they have been used since ancient times to welcome the power of nature into your home.

Mix new and old for relaxed style

Pairing upcycled and new furniture and mixing materials evokes a relaxed country style on porches and decks – a great spot for a morning coffee or afternoon tea. A woven seat and storage box provide visual texture. Make sure there’s a selection of pieces at different levels – a tall plant can add height and anchor the space.

Style a magical outdoor dining experience

Embrace the milder weather with an outdoor dining setting that celebrates the best of nature. For a simple arrangement, use a length of linen with frayed edges as a table runner and create a centrepiece of potted herbs wrapped in a natural fibre such as hessian, adding handwritten copper plant tags. You could even gift these to guests as party favours to take home at the end of the night.

Create multiple social zones

Maximise outdoor space by setting up areas for different types of entertainment. An outdoor sofa will create a casual breakaway spot away from the more formal dining area. “Outdoor rugs are a great way to anchor a space and create different zones,” adds Melle Van Sambeek. “Using a variety of furniture styles made with different materials can help to keep the area relaxed,” she adds.

Set the scene for after dark

Nothing makes magic quite like twinkling lights on a balmy night. Festoon styles can create a festive atmosphere and are a great option for renters. “I think it’s not a party unless there are festoon lights. They’re a must for backyard gatherings and they are so easy to hang,” says Melle Van Sambeek. “There’s also something about switching them on that starts the conversation flowing.”

A homemade hanging lantern using chicken wire and bead lights adds rustic charm – an easy addition for areas without hardwired outdoor lighting. Form a wire-netting cylinder around a hanging planter, cut the netting to size using pliers and tuck the top edge into the rim of the pot. With the battery pack/ switch at the top, wrap bead lights around the cylinder, threading through the wire at intervals to hold in place. Plant with a trailing variety (we used bridal veil) to cloak the switch and soften the effect. 

For more spring D.I.Y. ideas...

Check out this rope wreath or create a charming mosaic table.

Photo credit: Reuben Looi