Area: British Accents

Here in the great Northwest, our moist, temperate weather is similar to England’s mild, damp climes. Cool, showery months yield verdant lawns, flowering shrubs and lush green landscapes.

While English garden styles vary widely from cottage charm to estate elegance, I prefer a semi-formal park-like approach. I love the symmetry of park gardens: boxwood hedges, flower-lined pathways and the focal point of an outdoor sculpture or fountain. In a residential setting, a birdbath or similar water feature can mimic the grandeur of a large fountain. A crisp-white painted garden bench offers a sophisticated seating area. Cast-iron urns painted dark green or glossy black add an English formal touch, and ivy topiaries create graceful, whimsical vistas. The upscale-garden look also can be brought indoors easily, resulting in a fresh, fashionable style in almost any room. Fabric and wallpaper options are virtually limitless, with a wide variety of traditional florals and whimsical garden-themed prints available in nearly every color scheme. Painted furnishings mix well with upholstered pieces, and formal jardinières, or planters, make an especially elegant home for indoor plantings. Seek out vintage or antique accessories to help complete the look: a floral tôleware tray, stone garden finials or framed botanical prints.

Now sit back and relax with a proper cup of tea. Indoors or out, English garden style is charmingly chic. :

John Stevens (johns@masins.com) is owner of the new Regents House galleries inside Masins Fine Furniture stores.