My inspiration for this design is the layering of fabrics in fashion and interiors. Organic and textural are the buzzwords for the day, and this fall centerpiece embodies that to a T. I’m creating the arrangement for Birmingham designer Dana Wolter’s beautiful home, and the interesting textiles and details throughout help kick-start my imagination and influence the plant materials I include. Dana’s house has high ceilings and spacious rooms that can accommodate such a large design (this one is about 30 inches by 30 inches), but it can easily be re-created on a smaller scale with a different-sized jardinière.
The Steps
Container Prep
I’m using an antique metal jardinière, but anything can become a container with proper materials that will allow it to hold water. Line the vessel with a garbage bag, pull it out over the edge, and trim the excess. Then tape it to the inside of the vessel to ensure it will be water-secure. Place the Styrofoam inside, and follow with the liner. Cut some chicken wire to make a loop that’s approximately the height of the container. When you fold it over to make the loop, be sure the wire lines up so that the stems can fit through the holes. Then bend the ends of the cut edges to secure the loop, and tape to the inside of the container. Fill the liner with water, and now you’re ready to start arranging.
Produced by Abby Braswell | Photography by Becky Luigart-Stayner