As regular readers will know my love for Nordic design doesn’t stop at my home, but includes my garden too, and with the most prestigious horticultural event of the year taking place next week, who better to chat with than garden designer, Annika Zetterman.
One of Scandinavia’s most influential names, I first discovered Annika’s captivating gardens through her bestselling book, ‘New Nordic Gardens: Scandinavian Landscape Design’. Now my go-to at the start of every gardening year, this essential read is organised by themes that encapsulate the atmosphere and lifestyle of both the Nordic landscapes and its people perfectly.
So, if like me you’re counting down the days to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, or just in need of some ideas and inspiration for your own outdoor space, here’s what Annika had to tell me:
Shall we start with a little about you, what your background is, and where your passion for gardening began?
I wouldn’t necessarily call myself a gardener, but I am passionate about landscape and design. I spent my summers as a child on my grandparents’ farm in Sweden, and my grandmother was a true gardener, working outdoors from dusk till dawn, cultivating the land. Everything she created with the soil, seemed, and was so natural, simple and flawless, and soon turned into remarkable crops and flowerbeds.
I meanwhile initially trained as an engineer before studying garden design later in life, and for almost two decades now have been lucky enough to go on to transform places and spaces throughout Scandinavia and Europe.
What for you are the key characteristics of a Nordic garden, and where do you go for ideas and inspiration?
In the Nordics we are very connected to our landscapes and enjoy spending time outdoors roaming in nature. This mindset also means Nordic gardens follow the essence of every season closely, from the vivid summer months when the sun never sets, through to the oppressive darkness of winter, we experience it all.
Heritage also plays a huge role, with certain plants central to this. For example, the Syringa, with its profound flowers and scent marks the beginning of summer, while apple trees can be harvested all the way through to winter. To sit under a tree of apple blossom, or enjoy your grandma’s apple pie are special moments, and to add plants that hold memories creates a strong sense of belonging and connection, even in the smallest garden.
Do you feel there are similarities between how Nordic gardens and homes are designed?
Functionality and simplicity are associated with Scandinavian design, whether that’s inside or out. With the severe weather and constant seasonal and temperature changes there is no room to cut corners, and structures are made to last. We also focus on the essential, avoiding structures with unnecessary ornamentation or framing. Furthermore, colour schemes are usually neutral, often pale and soft, with fine foliage, ornamental grasses and delicate perennials.
If someone is looking to create a Nordic style garden of their own, what would your top tips be?
Firstly, I would suggest selecting natural materials that resonate with the Nordics, such as wood and stone, as well as choosing delicate plants, like ferns, grasses and small, graceful perennials, shrubs and trees. Then I’d say plan for seasonal interest including early spring bulbs, autumn foliage, and in winter be sure to help wildlife by providing them with food and shelter.
When it comes to the hard landscaping create a space with purpose, nothing larger than needed, and value quality over quantity for a garden that lasts. Also, leave wood unpainted and invite the natural landscape in through the use of large boulders, gravel or a meadow patch.
Finally, with the great and the good of the gardening world heading to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show next week, what will you be looking out for?
It’s always a joy to visit garden shows, great vibes, great people and a day of happiness. Having designed a show garden myself, I know who much work goes into these gardens. The ‘New Nordic Notes’ show garden was created with co-designer, friend and landscape architect Kajsa Björne, for the 2024 Melbourne International Flower and Garden show, and was awarded Silver Gilt.
When it comes to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show however I will be looking for good energy and genuine expressions. I am also curious to see creative planting, beauty and biodiversity. I have not been for many years, so it will be a refreshing and inspirational experience!
Want to know more?
Thanks again to Annika for taking the time to chat with me, it’s been a real pleasure finding out more about Nordic gardens from an expert I’ve admired for years.
If you too would like to find out more about Annika, her Nordic gardens and her book, visit her website.
All images courtesy of Annika Zetterman.
Enjoyed this post? Then take a tour of Malin Nilsson’s garden located in the Swedish coastal village of Råå.
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