Florals are a timeless and versatile element that can enhance just about any interior aesthetic.
From bold and dramatic to soft and subtle, floral prints and arrangements can add color, texture and visual interest to any room. However, incorporating florals into your home decor can be daunting, especially if you’re not sure where to start.
Whether you’re a seasoned decorator or a beginner, this comprehensive guide to decorating with florals will provide you with practical tips and inspiration to help you create a statement arrangement for the season or a beautiful and inviting floral-inspired home.
Choose your vessel
Selecting the right vessel for a floral arrangement is just as important as choosing the right stems. The vase or container you choose can make or break the overall look and feel of your arrangement, so it’s important to consider factors such as size, shape, color and texture. A good rule of thumb is to choose a vessel that complements the style and color scheme of your flowers while also being appropriate for the occasion and setting.
When selecting a vessel for a floral arrangement, consider the size and shape of your blooms. Large, full arrangements might require a wider, more substantial vessel to support the weight of the flowers, while smaller, more delicate arrangements might benefit from a smaller, more compact vase.
The color and texture of the vessel also can play an important role in the overall aesthetic of your arrangement. A simple glass vase can create a classic and elegant look, while a textured ceramic or metal vessel can add a more rustic or industrial feel.
Ultimately, the vessel you choose should enhance the beauty of your flowers and complement the overall style and ambiance of your home.
Creating a permanent botanical arrangement
Faux flowers offer several benefits over fresh stems. For one, they last much longer and can be enjoyed for years rather than just a few days. Additionally, faux flowers require no maintenance like watering or pruning, and they can be easily dusted or cleaned with a damp cloth. Faux florals also offer more versatility in terms of colors and styles, and they can be found in almost any variety of flower imaginable.
But what I love most is that they can be arranged and rearranged in endless combinations. Arranging your permanent florals is a much more forgiving process than arranging live ones, I’ve found, and following these steps for a foolproof arrangement every time.
1
Prep your vessel. Determine if your container needs a little prep work before you start inserting stems. If you have a wide opening, you might need to create a grid with floral tape to keep stems in place. You can do this by placing a few strips of tape across the opening about 1 inch apart. Repeat the process with new strips running perpendicular to the first set of strips.
2
Begin arranging. Start with the largest and most dominant flowers and stems, and insert them into the vessel at varying angles. Create a “frame” with your sturdiest branches. Try to create a balanced look by distributing the elements evenly throughout the arrangement.
3
Add in filler flowers and greenery. Once you’ve added the dominant flowers, fill in the gaps with smaller blooms and greenery.
4
Create depth and dimension. If your arrangement has a front and back (meaning it will be placed in a spot where it won’t be seen from one side), add taller flowers or greenery toward the back and shorter stems toward the front. If your arrangement is going to be viewable on all sides, keep your taller pieces in the center, and the edges lower.
5
Finish with the final touches. Step back and assess your arrangement, and adjust any flowers as needed.
An orchid adds sophistication
If you are looking to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your room, look no further than a potted orchid. Its delicate and graceful blooms, vibrant colors and unique shapes create a striking focal point that draws the eye and enhances the visual appeal of the space. On their own, they’re a perfect addition to a simple vignette, or if you’d like to add a little drama to a room, consider a pair of symmetrically placed orchids.
Tulips add a touch of elegance
Tulips come in a variety of colors, so you can choose the perfect shade to complement your decor. For a simple yet stylish arrangement, place a few tulips in a tall vase and let their long stems create graceful lines. Or, mix and match different colors and types of tulips in a low vase or bowl for a more eclectic look. Tulips also are versatile enough to work well in both modern and traditional settings. Whether you’re decorating a dining room table, a mantel or a bedside table, a vase of tulips is sure to brighten up the space and bring a touch of springtime indoors.
Decorating with greenery
I love the look of wild and bright greenery for spring. That pop of color pairs well with just about everything, but I especially love the way it looks with blue and white. Greenery is so versatile and works well on its own, but it also creates arrangements full of depth and dimension when mixed and matched. From bushy eucalyptus fronds to bold and beautiful monstera leaves, greenery is more than just filler.
Creating organic-looking arrangements
Creating whimsical organic-looking floral arrangements is all about embracing the natural beauty and textures of your flowers. Start by choosing blooms that tend to have a wilder appearance, such as roses, ranunculus or wildflowers. You can also add in interesting elements such as branches, vines or dried grasses to create a more rustic and natural feel. When arranging your flowers, aim for a loose and unstructured look, with some stems sticking out at different angles and varying heights.
To create an arrangement truly inspired by nature, it’s important to pay attention to the textures and colors of your blooms. Mix and match different textures, such as smooth and shiny petals with rough and fuzzy foliage, to create depth and interest. Don’t be afraid to mix and match colors as well, such as soft pastels with bright pops of color.
When arranging your flowers, start with the larger blooms and work your way down, filling in the gaps with smaller flowers and greenery. Remember, the key to an organic-looking arrangement is to let go of perfection and embrace the natural beauty of your blooms.
By following some of the tips and tricks outlined in this guide, you can create stunning arrangements that enhance the style and ambiance of your space. Experiment with different colors, textures and styles, and have fun exploring the endless possibilities florals have to offer.
Katie Laughridge is the owner of Kansas City interior design destination Nell Hill’s. For more information, contact Katie at info@nellhills.com.
