As a writer with a deep love for the British garden, I’ve always found solace and inspiration amidst its flora and fauna. For years, I poured over articles detailing every aspect of garden enjoyment, from the best rambling roses for a cottage garden aesthetic to the optimal soil composition for vibrant herbaceous borders. I devoured tips on combating slug infestations and chuckled at the clever contraptions designed to deter squirrels from decimating bird feeders. The more I learned, the more intertwined my writing and gardening became.
Then came the orangery. After years of dreaming, planning, and poring over designs, we finally constructed our own. My vision wasn’t just of a sun-drenched haven for citrus trees (though they certainly have pride of place!). It was about creating a multifunctional space, a seamless blend of indoor comfort and outdoor vibrancy, a dedicated area for creativity.
The initial draw of the orangery, as covered frequently in articles about ‘Orangeries and Garden Rooms: Enhancing the Garden Experience’, was its potential to extend the gardening season. Protecting tender plants from frost and providing a controlled environment for propagation are definite advantages. However, the true magic lies in its ability to enhance the overall garden experience, blurring the lines between home and nature.
Creating My Creative Sanctuary:
My goal was to transform the orangery into a working studio that would complement my creative needs. Here’s what I’ve found indispensable:
- Light is Key: Orangeries are inherently bright, but direct sunlight can be harsh. I invested in light filtering blinds for sunny days, which soften the glare while still flooding the space with natural light. North-facing orangeries might need supplemental grow lights for plants and more focused task lighting for focused work.
- Ventilation is Vital: Stuffy air is the enemy of both inspiration and healthy plants. Good ventilation is crucial. Our orangery has automated roof vents that open and close depending on the temperature. Consider cross-ventilation strategies; opening a window on opposite sides of the room creates airflow. Misting systems can also help manage humidity levels and keep plants happy.
- Strategic Storage: Clutter kills creativity. I’ve incorporated built-in shelving to house gardening tools, pots, and books. A rolling cart provides portable storage for works in progress. Everything has its place, keeping the space organised and conducive to focus. Wicker baskets are a lovely way to keep things tidy while keeping the garden aesthetic consistent.
- Comfortable Workspace: I chose a comfortable desk and an ergonomic chair to promote good posture. A small rug underfoot adds warmth and definition to the workspace. Most importantly, I made sure the desk faces the garden, providing constant inspiration.
- Plants as Inspiration: Of course, the plants are central. I’ve grouped them according to their light and watering needs. Hanging baskets and tiered planters add vertical interest. The vibrant greenery, fragrant blooms, and the gentle sound of rustling leaves create a calming and stimulating environment. I keep a small propagation station for cuttings, always nurturing something new.
Drawing Inspiration from Others:
I’ve read accounts of numerous artists and writers throughout history who have found inspiration in similar settings. Monet’s garden at Giverny, with its lily pond and Japanese bridge, springs to mind. While not strictly an orangery, the concept of cultivating a personal paradise for creative fuel is the same. Even within literature, many authors have referenced botanical settings which speaks to the symbiotic relationship between greenery and inspiration.
Lessons Learned and Continued Growth:
Transforming my orangery into a studio has been an ongoing journey of discovery. Initially, I underestimated the impact of temperature fluctuations on certain plants and the amount of maintenance required. Experimentation and continuous learning are essential. But the rewards are immeasurable. The ability to step away from the screen and tend to my plants, to breathe in the fragrant air, to observe the changing seasons reflected in the leaves – it revitalises my creativity and grounds me in the present moment.
By integrating aspects of garden enjoyment, landscaping elements and various plant types, along with creative planning you can transform what seems like a simple glass extension into a hive of productivity, with an area for relaxation and a new found connection with nature. The combination of the natural light, comfortable workspace and well curated flora can turn an orangery into a place to truly enjoy your gardening experience.
