Some flowers and vases are made for each other; you just need to unlock the harmony between them to find the perfect fit, which is exactly what floral artist Mabel Steenkamp did!

 

 

 

 

Green Roses
The full-bodied textural allure of Echeveria combined with artichokes (Cynara cardunculus var. Scolymus) calls for contrast and grandstanding – and a white cake stand is just the graceful display vessel for that.

Clear-Cut Splendour
Singular sprays of freesias in a selection of hand-cut glass vases ooze elegance – and a mirror tray doubles up the glamorous effect.

Nesting Instincts
Chincherinchees (Ornithogalum) can go without water for a while, and the twisted stems allow for easy movement, which makes a glass cloche perfect.

Botanical Beauties
An informal grouping of slim white ceramic vases, each accentuated with single stem flowers from the garden – Allium ampeloprasum, snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus) and Poppy (Paeoniflorum) – makes a subtle yet striking statement.

It’s A Winner
Show off your snapdragons to glorious effect in an unused trophy – and the crowd will go wild!

Tall Order
Sculpturally breathtaking, the slender stems of Allium porrum, from the onion family, require similarly elegant and slender vases for maximum impact.

On A Pedestal…
A rounded arrangement of grey Brunia, chincherinchees (Ornithogalum) and artichokes calls for a little more than just a complementary vase – the silver pedestal gives it the spotlight it deserves.

Just Add Water
One flowerhead of hydrangeas (Hydrangea arborescens ‘Annabelle’) can make up a number of striking arrangements – but pair it with a simple fishbowl, set the leaves afloat … et voilá! A cool focal point.

Double Vision
With long spathes of showy blooms, a tall clear glass vase does gladiolus proud – but double the delight with two similar arrangements, and throw in a surprising touch by turning a sheath or two upside down!
 

 

Text and image: Home