A favourite design feature of mine for any space is an arrangement of seasonal greenery - branches and foliage reflect the changing of seasons, bring the outside in but also add a vertical and sculptural element to a space.  

The great benefit of greenery over a traditional flower arrangement is that it lasts for at least a month! And we all have access to a bit of nature whether it’s bushes and trees in our back yards or on the side of the road (please ask any neighbours first!).  

While I’m certainly no floristry expert, here are my tips on styling your own foliage arrangement.

Your florist doesn’t just sell flowers - you can get amazing foliage from them too. Remember to ask what’s freshest as that’s what going to last the longest.

Good clippers that are sharp are key - especially if you’re foraging for your own foliage. Remember to re-cut anything you’ve picked or purchased - cut it on an angle so it can soak up the most water.

My (completely unprofessional!) approach is to put everything in a vase or vessel, with the tallest pieces at the centre, and then rearrange and trim pieces until it looks good to the eye.

Your arrangement doesn’t have to be perfect - you want it to be a little bit wild and undone. I always aim for a slightly asymmetrical look - it’s a piece of nature after all! 

Check out your creation from all angles - especially the focal point of the arrangement where the eye will rest when people enter the room.  

Foliage is surprisingly thirsty - so remember to refill the water regularly. 

Full disclosure: this arrangement of viburnum started off with supplies from my favourite florist Florienne in Takapuna - but was perfected with additions from my client’s own garden - win! 

Contact Auckland Interior Designer Kirsten Ford for more information.

Images: Hanson & Daughters Photography

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