Eastern inspiration

Every time I travel East, I am always inspired by the elegant floral arrangements ? beautiful creations of living art. From simple table pieces that consist of a tiny bowl, moss, and a miniature bonsai to elaborate floor vases filled with exotic orchids, floral art in the East never ceases to amaze and inspire me. So how can we bring some of this Eastern inspiration home? Very easily.

Always remember that less is more. Keeping it simple is the first step to creating a fabulous arrangement. While in Hong Kong last week, I was fortunate enough to be invited to the home of The Honourable James P.C. Tien, Legislative Council and his wife Mary, who is a passionate gardener. My jaw dropped when I first saw a simple yet fabulous bowl filled with lady slipper-like orchids that graced their living room coffee table. To recreate this elegant look, fill a ceramic bowl (about 14 inches in diameter) with ground-growing orchids and moss. Now that wasn?t hard, was it?

Always remember to group like items together. While staying at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, I discovered several arrangements that I plan to recreate when I get home. First on my list is a simple bedside miniature bonsai. To achieve this look, fill a 3-4 inch bowl with dirt. Then, plant a miniature bonsai tree (6-8 inches high) or a small seedling. Next, cover the soil with moss and place bowl on an end table, bathroom countertop or bedside table and enjoy!

Another beautiful arrangement at the Mandarin Oriental provided me with some inspiration for five glass floor vases that I had purchased a year ago. Vases such as these can easily be grouped together in a foyer or patio and filled with varying levels of water. Next, place a floating single orchid blossom and candle on top or fill the vases with bamboo stalks and orchid stems.

Fresh flowers in a simple yet elegant design can make any space feel luxurious and elegant. Treat yourself and your home to fabulous living art. No one deserves luxury more than you!