As an American expat living in London, one of the most common questions I get is, 'what do you miss about home?.' My answer varies depending on the day, my family, my friends, my favorite foods. Today, looking at photos of Martha Stewart's garden at her Turkey Hill home for work, my answer is, definitively, New England gardens.
Growing up in Connecticut, I didn't necessarily realize that our wild, colorful, trellised style of yards was unique until I moved away. New England coastal style was just the standard. However, in the years since I've left the state, I've come to recognize how special and beautiful the region's gardening is. Martha Stewart's Westport home sets the standard.
Her iconic 'Turkey Hill' property, as it's become known after the name of the street is a striking treasure trove of New England garden ideas. According to 'Martha Moments,' a reputable Stewart fan account, Turkey Hill was Martha's home from 1972-2003, from which she launched her business. The curator, Andrew Ritchie writes: 'The Federal style home became a sort of "Graceland" to Martha's reading and viewing public over the years and functioned as the inspiration for many of Martha's books, magazines, television shows and products.' One glance, and it's clear to see why.
What's so nostalgic about Martha's garden to me? First, I love the pops of colorful planting against a mostly green base. Though I adore traditional English gardens, which rely on a similar wild ethos, I find that they tend to be more dominated by flowers. Stewart's garden flips this script where the deep emeralds of the leafy part of the yard become the focus. It makes each flower stand out all the more.
I'm also obsessed with the vertical garden elements which remind me so much of home. On the left side of her home, a simple trellis supports a climbing green plant. Next to her house, a pergola stretches out of the garden, providing even more growing space. A tripod trellis sits by the porch. These dreamy pieces are affordable, easy to care for, and instantly add a romantic element to any outdoor space.
Finally, perhaps the most New England aspect of Stewart's garden is the white exterior paint color of her home against the green of the garden. Though we don't traditionally consider a home part of the garden, the interaction between the two is undeniable. If you love the homes of Connecticut, white paint is the easiest way to recreate the coastal look.
Shop H&G's Trellis Picks
No matter where you live in the world, you can replicate a touch of New England-style with a beautiful, rose or ivy-covered trellis. Of all those on the market, these are a few of our favorites.
If you prefer a subtler look, this trellis is the one for you. Its delicate form is perfect for adding height to your garden, without bringing in bulk.
If you want the option to change your trellis based on your mood, this metal arch can be height adjusted for different looks. Ideal for the indecisive gardener.
Who says a trellis has to be arched? This angular alternative to the classic trellis puts a fun spin perfect for modern homes.
Now that I've found Martha's garden, I have somewhere to return everytime I'm missing home.
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