Preparing for Spring with Gardens & Delightful Orangeries
Spring is in full swing here at April Hamilton. We are blissfully busy redefining and reimagining luxury interiors for the warmer months ahead. As we prepare to spend more time outdoors, many of our clients are looking forward to entertaining, dining and relaxing in their very own luscious, open-concept spaces, ranging from gardens, to sea rooms and the ever-indulgent orangery.
During the 17th century, wealthy Italians used an orangery to store exotic plants, like citrus fruits (or oranges). Today, the orangery has become a multi-functional space doubling as a dining room, living room, or home office. Owing to their structural foundation (semi-solid, floor–to-ceiling glass windows), these luxurious structural extensions are best suited for properties that are balanced, symmetrical and offer opportunities for scale or extension. For this reason, bespoke construction and design is paramount and key to creating a balanced exterior look that complements the house’s period and architecture.
As part of a recent project, Chic Townhouse, April Hamilton designed the interior of a gorgeous orangery by Westbury UK. They produce the most stunning projects, including this particular one which was complete with elegant furnishings, an open plan kitchen, lively green-upholstered bar stools, visually striking dining area and a tranquil living space. With plenty of light pouring in to the space, we also added accent lighting courtesy of candles and a character-infusing chandelier from Porta Romana. The effortless combination of traditional windows, sunroof and a large accent-piece mirror definitely brings the outdoors in.
The addition of an orangery enables fluidity of space in this basement kitchen. Not only does it extend the living area, but it also allows guests to relax, dine and entertain in comfort and style. Browse through Westbury’s Instagram page to see their immaculate designs and more orangery inspiration at some of the most beautiful homes. Similarly, David Salisbury have completed award-winning orangeries and conservatories — worth a browse if you’re interested in adding an orangery to your property!
Setting the scene with remarkable landscaping
An orangery nestled in the heart of a blissful, lively garden landscape opens up a treasure cove of wonder and delight for both residents and guests alike. If your property isn’t well suited for an orangery, or if you’d like to take advantage of gardens and the spring season, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the outdoors from the comfort of your home. Taking a look at our Isle of Wight project, a coastal property that boasts enviable features including a stunning sea room overlooking the expansive garden, landscaped by Taylor Tripp.
Revitalising, spring-worthy interiors with plants, natural materials and more natural light
Additionally, and depending on your preference, decorating with natural materials can include a wide range of choice, from flooring to carpets, kitchen countertops and accessories. Imagine walking into a room with natural, wooden flooring, accented with natural-fibre carpets that add an air of comfort and elegance. Complement this with accessories hand-picked from nature like plants or flowers.
Moreover, plants can instantly liven up the space. Large or small, there’s room for unlimited creativity when decorating with plants. Texture, colour and scale are all elements to consider. Not only do plants add a vibrant element of greenery, it’s also fun to add a pop of color with cut-flowers like tulips, orchids or lilies.
If you’re interested in a more original approach to plants: A living green wall can instantly revitalize and inject vitality in the air. Picture a vertical wall housing plants tailored to your size and specifications. It’s a wonderful way to bring the outdoors in.
From orangeries, to natural light, immaculate landscaping and luscious plants; there’s no limit to the creativity in decorating your property with nature in mind. Whether you choose to do something small like adding plants or installing (or decorating) an orangery, feel free to contact the Luxury Interior Designers at April Hamilton with any ideas you might have about preparing your home for the warmer months.
