Millions of summerhouses, sheds, huts and cabins around the country are definitely due a makeover. Luckily, inspiration is provided at RHS Chelsea Flower Show in the form of five Artisan Retreats decorated by well-known designers and artists which will provide lots of ideas for visitors who want to turn their own garden huts into beautiful havens.
The Artisan Retreats complement the Artisan Gardens, which focus on natural, sustainably resourced materials and traditional craftsmanship. The Retreats are located nearby and offer a picturesque backdrop for visitors relaxing in the Ranelagh Gardens area of the showground.
Alex Denman, Show Manager, said “We’re thrilled to have these five major designers decorating the Artisan Retreats, bringing their unique styles and creative flair to Chelsea.”
‘A Book Binder’s Workshop’ designed by Vicki Conran
Vicki’s retreat will be full of interesting materials, papers, textiles and beautiful hand tools as well as a selection of books in varying stages of binding and casing.
‘Needlepoint Haven’ designed by Kaffe Fassett
Kaffe’s peaceful environment is designed for people to do needlework; yarns, canvases and examples of needlepoint play a large part, but the main feature is a wing chair covered in needlepoint images of fruit, flowers and vegetables.
‘Vintage Inspired Retreat’ designed by Orla Kiely
Orla’s nostalgic retreat is a space in which to relax, think, read and be inspired. Decorated with an abundance of colour and pattern and filled with plant pots and vintage gardening books, it is the perfect place to dream up the perfect garden.
‘A Passementerie Passion’ designed by Annabel Lewis of VV Rouleaux
Annabel’s retreat is a blaze of colour and bedecked with every kind of ribbon and trim. Garden furniture is embellished and used indoors, and visitors can learn how to turn hanging baskets into fabulous chandeliers.
‘Wild at Heart at Home’ designed by Nikki Tibbles
Nikki’s retreat reflects her favourite things: Cosy armchairs piled with cushions and throws, a woodburning stove, gorgeous rugs, shelves of books and, of course, vases of flowers, in this case garden roses.
Source: RHS – Artisan Retreats – Garden Interiors at Chelsea
