Stepping into the world of DIY seasonal décor can be quite the adventure, especially when it involves an orangery—a versatile space that beautifully bridges the indoors and outdoors. Recently, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Lucy, a passionate DIY enthusiast who has been transforming her orangery into a seasonal wonderland all year round. Her insights were not only inspiring but also incredibly practical. Join me as we dive into Lucy’s creative process and discover how you, too, can personalise your orangery for every time of year.
When I first asked Lucy about her journey into DIY seasonal décor, she chuckled, recalling her initial hesitations. “I wasn’t always this crafty,” she admitted. “But once I started, it became a kind of therapy. Plus, the orangery is such a lovely space to experiment with different themes and moods.”
Spring: Embracing Freshness
Lucy began with spring, a season synonymous with renewal and freshness. Her approach was to bring the outside in, using natural elements. “One of my favourites is making a floral garland,” she said, her eyes lighting up. “It’s simple. You just need a few bunches of your favourite spring flowers—think daffodils, tulips, or even some wildflowers.”
To replicate this, Lucy recommended starting with a sturdy base like a grapevine or wire garland. From there, she weaves in the flowers, using floral wire to secure them. “It’s important to layer the flowers in the same direction,” she explained, “and don’t be afraid to mix in some greenery for texture.”
Summer: A Burst of Colour
As summer rolls in, Lucy’s orangery transforms into a vibrant, sun-drenched retreat. “Summer is all about colour and light,” she told me. One of her signature projects is creating sun-catcher mobiles. “They’re perfect for catching the light and adding a splash of colour.”
For this project, she uses brightly coloured glass beads, threading them onto lengths of fishing line. “You can hang them from driftwood or even an embroidery hoop,” Lucy suggested. “The key is to have different lengths so they catch the light at different angles.”
Autumn: A Warm Embrace
The transition to autumn brings a cosy, welcoming vibe to Lucy’s orangery. “I love using what nature provides,” she said, referencing her autumn wreath project. “You can gather leaves, acorns, and pinecones right from your garden or a nearby park.”
To make an autumn wreath, Lucy starts with a basic wreath form, which she wraps with burlap for a rustic touch. “Then it’s just a matter of layering your natural finds, securing them with hot glue or floral wire,” she advised. Her tip for adding a pop of autumn colour? “Incorporate some small pumpkins or gourds.”
Winter: A Touch of Magic
Winter in Lucy’s orangery is all about creating a sense of wonder. “I focus on light and warmth,” she said, describing her DIY candle holders. Using old glass jars, she coats the inside with a mixture of white glue and Epsom salts. “It looks like frost,” she explained, “and when you place a tealight inside, it gives off the most beautiful, warm glow.”
Lucy also shared her trick for a winter centrepiece. “I gather some evergreen branches and place them in a vase. Then, I add some fairy lights and hang small ornaments from the branches. It’s simple but magical.”
All Year Round: Personal Touches
Throughout our conversation, what struck me most was Lucy’s emphasis on personal touches. “Every season, I try to incorporate something personal,” she said. “It could be a family photo in a themed frame or a small craft made by my children.”
Lucy believes that these personal elements are what truly make the orangery feel special. “It’s not just about following a theme; it’s about creating a space that tells your story.”
As our chat came to a close, I couldn’t help but feel inspired by Lucy’s creativity and her ability to transform her orangery into a reflection of the seasons. Her projects are not only accessible but also adaptable, inviting anyone to explore their own creativity. By using natural elements and personal touches, you can create a space that evolves with the seasons, offering a fresh perspective and a warm welcome throughout the year. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a complete novice, there’s something truly rewarding about crafting your own seasonal decor.
