From delicate coral to punchy cerise, shades of pink give an uplifting feel to summer living that is often unmatched by any other color. Joanna Gaines, an American furniture designer, and the star of the critically-acclaimed HGTV show Fixer Upper, knows this all too well. It's inviting, uplifting and effortless to decorate with, so it's not surprise that pink is now seen as an interiors neutral. This hue has been climbing the paint charts so it's time to leave any preconceived notions about it at the door.
A refreshing, happy and bright color, pink is just the hue for when you want to add cheer to your home, or in this case, patio garden. Decorating with pink has seen a huge resurgence in the last few years, taking over restaurants, stores, and now homes and gardens. While it may be true that color trends go through their ebb and flow, there’s no question that pink is having a long-lasting moment.
‘There is something innately romantic about using pink in the garden. Choosing a hue that feels timeless, rather than trendy, can transform any space, even an outdoor one. Pair it with white, like Gaines has done, for a sweet summery feel.
The versatility of the color pink is undeniable so it will fit in with any interior or exterior – from the trad to the modern.
It might not be an obvious choice, but a rose-tinted garden has risen to the top of our wish list thanks to this space. A pink and red-trimmed parasol takes pride of place, while matching seat cushions add harmonious warmth.
Color can also be added through planting. The subtle pink Heirloom roses – beautifully trailed up the wall – lean into this soothing and sophisticated color palette.
Heirloom roses are also known as heritage roses, antique roses, old garden roses, shrub roses, and old-fashioned roses. Sue Martin of Piedmont Master Gardeners says: 'The heirlooms are described as hardy, disease-resistant, carefree, prolific shrubs that don’t require much tending. But the showstopper is their wondrous fragrance, mentioned over and over again. They also offer a wide variety of forms ranging from shrubs to tall, arching plants up to 20ft (6m) in height.' The other feature that is typical of heirloom roses is the beautiful structure of the individual double flowers.
Collectively, in early summer, they provide a mass of color, though mainly restricted to the range between the deepest and richest reds to pure white and everything in between.
Look closely at the individual flowers, at the intricate patterns of petals, and you can see why heirloom roses are such a popular option for gardeners. Even one flower, with structure, its color, and its intoxicating scent, is a joy.
