Creating a "Shabby Chic" Garden

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

07 Jul 2006 02:20 PM

A few weeks ago I confessed that I knew little about the design concept: "Shabby Chic." (See my blog: "What is Shabby Chic?") Since then, not only have I taken a crash course in the popular decorating style (I'm almost done completely transforming my home-what can I say, it's addicting), I also learned there are ways to take the "Shabby Chic" theme outdoors to create a "Shabby Chic" garden.

Some successful "Shabby Chic" gardeners call it an extension of their home decor... and the techniques are just as easy. You simply follow the same rules outdoors as you do indoors. For example, if you have plain outdoor furniture, consider covering it with vintage floral fabrics. Or, the next time you are at a flea market look for chipping wrought iron pieces. Many pieces that people have used indoors can do double duty in your garden--from wrought iron shelves (perfect for small potted delicate plants) to large urns that can house decorative topiaries.

I visited one "Shabby Chic" garden (although, the owner actually referred to it as a "Cottage-style Flower Garden"-I later learned the terms are interchangeable) that had stone cherubs sitting and hanging EVERYWHERE. (I was told that cherubs are considered must-have accessories in "Shabby Chic" gardens because they add an element of whimsy and serve as a reminder of "blessings from the garden," and I guess who wouldn't want a cherub watching over their garden? I'll let you answer that.)

If you decide to forgo the cherubs, there are other more subtle pieces that work just as well. I found a great Italian angel wall plaque (it's medium-sized, made of whitewash stone, and can stand alone or be hung up) and an iron bird feeder that can be hung from a tree or trellis. I also found a beautiful wrought iron garden planter adorned with etched garland detail-it was gorgeous, but expensive. I didn't get it. Instead, I've decided to challenge myself to find a similar piece for half the price and with a little handiwork transform it into something that looks like the one that was out of my price range. After all, isn't that half the fun (and the most addicting part) of implementing the "Shabby Chic" concept?

Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

View Full Profile | More from this Blogger

QueenAngie Central Illinois, USA (60091) 07 Jul 2006 05:15 PM

One of my sisters has enjoyed hear gardening with this same Shabby Chic design.

She placed some favorite items in the garden....an old black bike with a basket. Adding blooming flowers to the basket and another on the seat with some trailing vines around the rims added some unique touches.

Another favorite is placing that no longer used wagon (wooden or metal) in the garden area and filled with more blooming flowers. In the autumn, the flowers can be changed to blooming mums and pumpkins.

Be on the hunt for bird houses or butterfly homes to add.

As penned above, stone items are the key. Some of these are located after season clearance, or even at the Dollar Store. Keep your eyes opened for items that you find appealing....and on sale.

Michele Cheplic (37349) 08 Jul 2006 08:24 AM

I love the bike idea! Though, I think I will have to wait for my daughter to get a little older to implement the wagon idea. I fear she will dump out the flowers and try to climb in. Wonderful ideas! Thank you!

Nicole Humphrey (15757) 08 Jul 2006 11:33 AM

Michele, excellent article. I loved the ideas, and am becoming more and more attracted to the style. Thanks for all the great information as always!