Amazon.com Review
Leading British floral designer Stephen Woodhams's passion for flowers and the joy they bring is inspiring. "Like a good meal," he observes, "a good flower arrangement should leave you feeling happy and satisfied." The soul-satisfying richness of his glorious arrangements take color as their jumping-off point, soaring to heights of red exuberance, basking in the glow of yellows, exuding the mysterious calm of blues, showcasing minimalist serenity, or setting off any other color with the clarity of whites. Color generally renders the first impact of an arrangement, whether its style is country, classic, or contemporary/urban. Woodhams explores all three styles, from an artfully casual mass of summer blooms to an architecturally arranged column of gladiolus. He urges us to seek the unexpected; since not every floral display has to stand in a vase, we are treated to bold rows of roses arrayed in a rough wooden tray; a sunny bunch of gerberas planted in a "basket" of lemons; a fishbowl (complete with driftwood and goldfish) ringed with intense purple anemones; stems of ornamental red peppers submerged in a Lucite tube. Novices should note that this is not a specific how-to book; the wonderfully descriptive text concentrates mostly on the flowers themselves and the general intent behind each creation. But there are many design and arranging tips among the pages, and the spectacular photographs provide inspiration aplenty for those willing to experiment.
--Amy Handy
Product Description
Flower Palettes offers a breathtaking variety of original and inspiring designs and captures a new approach to flower arranging. With his unfailing sense of style, Stephen Woodhams shows how even the simplest idea can make a powerful impact.
The first chapter introduces Stephen's very modern approach to style, shape, and use of color. It also discusses the range of plant materials available and gives his recommendations for must-have flowers, plants, and foliage. Finally, it provides all the practical know-how and tips of the trade you will need to create and maintain your own arrangements.
Taking color as their main theme, the four remaining, gloriously illustrated chapters show the effects that can be achieved with dramatic reds, subdued yellows, pure whites, and heavenly blues. Stephen demonstrates how flowers can complement a range of interiors, from formal to informal, contemporary to traditional. Step-by-step instructions make these ideas instantly achievable.
With more than 70 original arrangements and 250 color photographs, all specially taken for the book, Flower Palettes is truly the most irresistible and innovative book on flower arranging.
