Selina Lake’s books and styling work have been an inspiration to me from way back – at the very beginning of my blogging and publishing career. Her eye for interiors has always been delicate and feminine but with a contemporary edge that makes it fun and unexpected. Now Selina is adding gardening to her repertoire with her latest book (number 8!) Garden Style, and today we indulge in a little peek inside – a taster of this perfect springtime read….
Photo: Caroline Rowland
There are trillions of gardening books out there that are practical and functional in terms of how to grow, how to plant and how to design your outdoor space, but this has got to be one of the first on how to STYLE it. With our gardens becoming almost like an extra ‘room’ it’s equally as important to add character to it, the same as you would in every other room in your home.
In the book, Selina demonstrates how to create stylish seating areas as well as how to decorate your garden as a whole. With anything from quirky containers to clever lighting to vintage decorative details – perfect for adding interest to your outdoor area. It doesn’t matter whether you have a tiny patio or a huge expansive space, there are tips and ideas to glean for all types of garden.
There is a section on garden rooms, greenhouses and sheds which highlights some inspiring examples of the perfect garden retreat including the above one owned by 91 Magazine photographer Cathy Pyle. (we’ve been envious of this for a while so can see why Selina picked it!). She also shares lots of little projects throughout the book such as ‘make your own seed packets’ and ‘floral stained napkins’, plus there are style tips peppered throughout the pages.
Not only is garden styling covered but Selina shares some of her favourite gardens to visit, flowers shows, garden centres and nurseries as well as favourite flowers, plants and veg to grow. The section on ‘Bringing the Outdoors in’ discusses ways of utilising your homegrown flowers and foliage within your home too.
If you are planning to transform your outdoor space this year, then this is a must-read – you will be guaranteed inspiration to help you create the perfect little patch for summer long enjoyment!
You can read some further reviews and see more from inside the book on the blogs of 91 friends Lobster and Swan and Little Green Shed. Selina will also be sharing her thoughts on it this week too, so pop to her new website for more.
All images are copyright of Ryland Peters & Small unless otherwise stated. Garden Style by Selina Lake is published by Ryland Peters & Small. All photography by Rachel Whiting. Order your copy of the book here.
