GREEN LIVING

GREEN LIVING

A ceramic tile floor is the perfect answer for an indoor-outdoor room, especially when tiles come in gorgeous shades of grey, pink, blue and buff. And why not make a feature of a conservatory corner with a continental tiled panel ?
Traditional garden furniture makes the grade, in rattan or wrought iron. Colonial style pieces, like Gothic benches, Planter’s chairs and Indian sedans, are particularly effective and easy to source locally.
Period-look lighting helps create mood. Look out for traditionally styled electric lanterns, hurricane lamps and citronella flares.
Trellis panels make an interesting feature on bare walls, as do flower boxes and hanging baskets. Accessorise with old terracotta post, porcelain planters, watering cans and metal pails.
For alfresco-style tableware, think chunky china, oversized goblets, pitchers and fruit-bordered tablecloths.


HERBAL ESSENCE

Herbs are well known for their medicinal properties and culinary uses. After all, where would Thai food be without coriander ? Or roast lamb without a sprig of fresh rosemary?
If you like natural products, herbs can also be used in cosmetics (rosemary makes an excellent hair rinse) or as pot pourri. A sachet of lavender under your pillow is said to aid sleep.
There are endless ways to use herbs and it is becoming increasingly popular for people to grow their own to enjoy the full benefits. The best part is, it’s very easy to start a herb garden.