Flowers for cheer: art of flower arrangements at home

The association of creative ideas and nature can be expressed through flower arrangements. Nature can be used as an art form to beautify the interior of homes. The riot of colour that a bouquet presents is a visual treat while the all-pervading aroma delights the senses.

Aesthetic appeal

Floral designs can be used to tie the elements of a room into a cohesive unit. The colour, texture and appeal create a harmony with the surrounding decor. The flowers must be chosen to complement the decor and the dominant architectural theme. The common types of arrangements are what dictate the form which may be round, triangular, free form, or shaped like an L or S. Proportion and balance are very important and a general rule is followed of the height of the flowers being one and half times the height of the container.

The arrangement itself consists of the dominant element or main flower, secondary element or smaller flowers, fillers, special elements like vines that can add texture and finally the accent element like a figurine that draws focus to the piece. The flower decor can be classified as centre piece, linear, round, a bouquet, decorative, free, classical, modern or formal.

Placement

Flowers in foyers or entrance lobbies and verandahs welcome the viewer with eye-catching effects. The console table can have a fan shaped creation or a tall vase for effect. An artfully arranged basket is an arresting addition at the entrance. Care should be taken to make tall pieces stable so that they do not topple
with the weight of the flowers. An ethnic touch can be achieved by floating fresh flowers and leaves in an 'urli' in the centre of a portico. If the verandah is partially open, hanging baskets on the periphery can be festooned with fresh flowers and creepers that create the impression of bringing the garden indoors. Living and dining rooms are ideal for brightening up with vivid colours and scents of nature. Living rooms have many surfaces, nooks and corners to place fresh flowers. Centre tables, side tables, corner stands and wall shelves are ideal. In the dining area roses can make a resplendent centre piece for the table. Boat shaped containers also suit a rectangular table as they are linear and have a low profile and do not hinder the placement of crockery and cutlery. Roses, gladioli, lilies, tulips, orchids and chrysanthemums are some popular choices. Delicate varieties and pastel shades also create a relaxed ambience while adding a sophisticated touch to the interiors.

Ikebana
Japanese flower arrangements is a very popular art form. It is a discipline where nature and humanity co-exist in proximity. Leaves, branches, grasses, and blossoms are used to create masterpieces where even creative expression is governed by rules of construction. Every aspect has a meaning such as a flower depicting nature and bamboo epitomising integrity. Fascinating forms result from the colour, shape, lines, and meaningful use of the blossoms. Ikebana uses the rhythm and order of nature, and links indoors and outdoors. It is different from regular flower arrangements due to its asymmetrical form and use of space as an essential component of the composition.

Accessories
A good flower arrangement requires a suitable container, fresh flowers and proper setting. The size of the container should be suitable for the space where it is placed and the materials must be cut in proportion to the size of the container. These holders can be shallow, tall or large and made from bamboo, ceramic, stone, brass, glass, wood etc. Arrangements require proper equipment like sponges, fresh water, steel craft wire, wire cutters, knives and shears, clips, tapes and picks. Baskets are available in metal and bamboo and are ideal for anchoring long stems. Bowls work best for placements on round tables. Glass and ceramic vases are valued for their beauty and ease of handling. Metal containers like brass and pewter can enhance a simple or formal setting. Novelty containers can be made from plaster moulds but are heavy. Their advantage is that they offer varied options in shapes and sizes that adds charm and interest. Terracotta can be used in its natural form or embellished with paints and beads. Trays and boxes are utilised when the height of the arrangement has to be low. Urns give height to the flowers and are impressive add-ons. Finally, foams, sponges and wire frames are widely used as they can be cut and shaped to requirement.