Bunnings Warehouse
An outdoor patio with a bistro table, a planter of flowers, and a white door with a large paper flower decoration.

Set the scene for springtime gatherings with fresh flowers, foliage and seasonal styling. 

 

Spring has a knack for turning ordinary backyards into something a little more magical. The combination of longer days, a fresh burst of colour in the garden and the emergence of better weather is an invitation to linger outdoors a little longer. And as blossoms appear and climbing vines begin their seasonal performance, the stage is set for entertaining. Make the most of dappled afternoon light with a D.I.Y. flower-covered arbour, well-potted house plants and strategically placed floral gestures. It’s time to harness the power of plants and make every occasion special.

Tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Large paper flowers displayed in a bright room with potted house plants and flowers.

How to style plants and flowers indoors

Let seasonal blooms set the stage for your spring soirée. Position vibrant, potted flowers throughout entryways, dining rooms and social spaces to create a warm welcome. Form an immersive indoor meadow by varying the height of your planters with plinths and stools. Complete the scene with a touch of whimsy, in this case, an oversized bouquet of paper flowers – to make these, check out our article how to make giant paper flowers.

A garden arch draped with flowering vines beside an outdoor dining table.

How to style a garden entrance

Whether it’s framing the entrance to your garden, defining an outdoor dining space or providing a picture-perfect backdrop for bridal showers, birthdays or lazy summer brunches, a flower-draped arbour is just as beautiful on an ordinary Tuesday as it is at your big celebration. Want to create your own? Read our article on how to build a timber garden arch.

An outdoor dining table set in a garden courtyard beside a flower-covered garden arch and oversized paper flowers.

How to style an outdoor table

When styling an outdoor table, let your garden do the heavy lifting. Try these tips:

  • Keep textiles and dinnerware simple to allow fresh flowers and greenery to shine.
  • Add a layer of lace or floral or botanical motifs.
  • Look to garden cuttings for the rest: multiple small vessels with foliage and flowers is friendlier than an oversized arrangement in a dining setting.
  • Swap out extravagant arrangements for dainty blooms and foliage.
  • For a smaller table, a simple jug of colourful cut flowers makes a pretty decoration.

Keep in mind...

  • Take care when selecting your plants, as some can be poisonous to children and pets.
  • Check suitability of plants for your area, as some may be classified as weeds in certain states and territories.

Want more outdoor table setting ideas?

Read our article on the six secrets to tablescaping

 

 

Photo credit: Adrian Lander. 

Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.