This beautiful seaside-inspired garden, called The Blue Greenhouse, was created by designers Rose Blamey of Windrose Garden Design and Kimberley Loewen of Flourish Garden Design. I shouldn’t have been surprised that this garden was my instant favorite at the BC Home + Garden Show, because I have been long-time fans of their impressive work.
The centerpiece of the garden is a turquoise greenhouse from BC Greenhouses that would be any gardener’s dream playroom. Filled with terracotta pots of spring bulbs, seedlings, and succulents, it’s no wonder I was drawn in so quickly.
Rose explained that the garden was inspired by a Gulf Islands retreat. This outdoor haven was clearly made for someone who loves the harmony between sea and land. Fraser firs, paperbark maples, and western red cedars provided the natural background for a garden that would be fairly low maintenance on the west coast. Evergreen shrubs like Viburnum davidii and rhododendrons will look lovely all year and the range of native ferns could provide enough fiddleheads to enjoy as a side dish to freshly-caught crab dinner.
Taking a step back, you could see the reclaimed wood floorboards, fence, and garden edging that was hauled in for the show. 
Hints of vintage were seen throughout, such as this “We’re Happy as Clams” sign, 
wall art, and hand tools; as well as throughout the garden sculptures: an owl, weather vane, and these floral balls.
Despite the rusty and rustic elements, the design remained fresh due to the cheery orange and turquoise color palette,
creative seaside elements,
and plant combinations like this mix of grasses, hellebores, and a Pinus contorta ‘Spaan’s Dwarf.’ You can also see the Pinus strobus ‘Tiny Curls’ in the center pot that I fell in love with. The plants were provided by Art’s Nursery, where you will be sure to find me very soon!
Photo credit: Allegra
In such a small space, I was pleased to see a few crafty DIYs like the planter table made from a large pot and a circular glass table top,
and, the pièce de résistance, this outdoor shower, complete with a river stone basin and octopus towel hook.
The designers did a wonderful job of whisking me away to a breezy seaside escape. I hope that I get to vacation on the Gulf Islands one day, as they have inspired a both vibrant and relaxing space.
Okay, that is gorgeous! I’ve been dying for a greenhouse (maybe this year?), and I love how this space is so charming and rustic. Thanks for the inspiration, Stephanie!