Das Perspective

Showing posts with label Gardens. Show all posts

One of my favourites gardens. Whenever I am in Barbados, I drive up to this place and just enjoy the tranquility and peace and quiet. Huntes Garden in Barbados is a botanical haven with a rich history and captivating design. Established in the mid-20th century by horticulturist Anthony Hunte, the garden showcases an impressive array of tropical flora indigenous to the Caribbean region. It really is a piece of art and one of my favourite gardens.

The history of Hunte's Garden traces back to the vision of Anthony Hunte, who cultivated the land into a sanctuary for plant enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Originally a sugar plantation, the garden's transformation into a botanical paradise reflects Hunte's passion for preserving and showcasing the diverse plant species of Barbados. You can really feel and sense the years of love and hard work put into this place.

The design of the garden is characterised by its harmonious blend of indigenous and exotic plants, meticulously arranged to create a captivating landscape. Visitors are treated to a sensory experience as they wander through lush pathways, bordered by vibrant flowers, towering palms, and fragrant herbs.

One of the garden's notable features is its collection of rare and endangered species, carefully curated to highlight the importance of conservation efforts in preserving Barbados' natural heritage. From majestic orchids to towering ferns, each plant species contributes to the garden's biodiversity and ecological significance.

Hunte's Garden also offers visitors a glimpse into Barbados' cultural heritage, with traditional Caribbean plants and medicinal herbs interspersed throughout the landscape. Educational tours and workshops provide insight into the island's botanical traditions, offering visitors a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of plants and human culture. Overall, this garden stands as a testament to Anthony Hunte's dedication to botanical excellence and environmental stewardship. Its rich history, diverse plant collections, and captivating design make it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and garden lovers alike.

All photos by May @ Das Perspective

Hunte's Garden in Barbados: A Tropical Heaven

Tuesday, 30 December 2025

Love this beautiful garden of a home in Montecito, California. It is just right up my alley when it comes to the whole vibe. It was renovated by architect Marc Appleton. I like the whole unpretentious feel and the very inviting and natural look of the place.

Photography by Matt Walla. for Aspire Design Home.

A 1891 California Compound

Monday, 8 December 2025

I was going through some of my old photos and wanted to put up a picture I took in Spitalfields, London, a few years ago — but I ended up coming across this instead. I took it in Provence, France one summer. I just love wild flowers, especially poppies. Speaking of which, I’ve never had much luck growing them in my own garden. Apparently they don’t like weeds, are quite particular about where they grow (yet are somehow also considered easy to grow!).

I realised the problem was probably the soil prep. Because the seeds are so tiny, whenever I watered them after planting, they would scatter everywhere — or at least that’s what I think happened. So I stopped bothering with clearing the soil and now simply put fresh compost where I want them, water the compost first, sprinkle the seeds, cover everything with a cloche, and then leave them alone. It works! I had loads of poppies in the garden this summer.

And after all that effort, I spotted a cluster of poppies growing happily in the pavement just a little further down the road… apparently they don’t mind concrete. :)

Poppy Love

Monday, 24 November 2025

Love the climbing begonias providing shade on the “jungle terrace.” of this home in Uruguay. The dining table was designed by the owner of the house, the chairs were found at a flea market in the south of France, and the lantern was sourced from a market near Florence.

Home of artist Eva Claessens and art dealer Kris Ghesquière. Photo via Ell Decor. Photography by Ricardo Labougle.

Close to Nature

Tuesday, 18 November 2025

A throwback to this beautiful moment at Iford Manor Gardens in May 2025.
A few years ago, I was just passing through the area and decided to stop by the gardens. Back then, I had missed the wisteria season, but I promised myself I’d come back. It really is such a lovely place, and the highlight has to be the wisteria, draped and scattered everywhere. If you ever get the chance to visit, I’d definitely recommend it. May is usually the best time, though it all depends on the weather. If you follow Iford Manor Gardens’ website, they share updates on how the wisteria is coming along. It’s so worth seeing them in full bloom — absolutely magical.

Diary Entry: A Spring Day

Saturday, 1 November 2025

The Garden of Alfriston Clergy House is a delightful retreat nestled in the heart of the quaint village of Alfriston in East Sussex, England. Managed by the National Trust, this historic property boasts a charming garden that dates back to the medieval period.

During my visit to the garden on a warm July afternoon, I was greeted by swathes of sweet peas, calendulas, and other summer blooms adorning its pathways and borders. Meandering pathways lead visitors past tranquil ponds and through leafy archways, providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. With its picturesque setting and timeless beauty, the Garden of Alfriston Clergy House offers a serene haven for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

The garden, though not meticulously pruned, exuded a natural charm that made it all the more inviting and authentic. The house, albeit small in size, holds its own unique appeal, making it a worthwhile stop for visitors to the area.

Alfriston itself is a picturesque village steeped in history and charm. Located in the South Downs National Park, it boasts a range of quaint shops, tearooms, and traditional pubs, making it a popular destination for visitors exploring the surrounding countryside. The village is also home to St. Andrew's Church, a stunning example of medieval architecture, and the Clergy House, one of the National Trust's earliest acquisitions. Whether you're admiring the views from the nearby Long Man of Wilmington or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll along the River Cuckmere, Alfriston offers a quintessentially English experience that's not to be missed.

The perfect cottage garden of Alfriston Clergy House

Wednesday, 15 October 2025

I’ve always loved capturing the beauty of nature—gardens, flowers, and all their vibrant colours. There’s something about the way sunlight filters through leaves or how a single bloom can brighten an entire scene that makes me reach for my camera. For me, these photos are more than just images; they hold the memory of peaceful walks, fresh air, and those small but perfect moments that make a day feel beautiful. Looking back at them always lifts my spirits and reminds me of the joy that nature so effortlessly provides. I hope that, in sharing these, they bring you the same sense of calm and delight.

Tuesday, 30 September 2025

On our way back from Tuscany, we decided to stop in Rome—purely for the food. After all, it’s not as if British Airways meals are anything to look forward to (honestly, what is it with airline food? The only carrier that seems to do it properly is Swiss Air).

This visit to Rome felt different. We wandered as though we belonged there, weaving through familiar streets without the crutch of Google Maps. The last time I had been in the city was back in April, when the Pope’s funeral was taking place. The trip had been planned months earlier, but it seemed as though half the world—and every major leader—had descended upon Rome at the very same time. Chaotic, fascinating, unforgettable.

Now, back in England (I returned just a few days ago), it feels as if summer slipped away on cue with the turn of the calendar page to September. The rain hasn’t stopped since. I find myself thinking back to that fleeting Roman stopover: sandals on my feet, fan in hand, basking in late-summer warmth. Here, meanwhile, I’m already eyeing the wardrobe, wondering if it’s time to pack away linen and bring out the jumpers. It isn’t cold yet, but there’s a new sharpness in the air, the unmistakeable sense that autumn is on its way.

All Roads Lead to Rome

Thursday, 4 September 2025

I think flowers are impossibly photogenic. Have you ever seen a truly bad photo of them? Ever? Since I was a little girl, I’ve been in love with nature’s colours and the scent of flowers (the fragrance of narcissus, in particular, always takes me back to my mother’s spring garden, where I’m suddenly five years old again). With the arrival of digital cameras—and later, phone cameras—I must have captured thousands upon thousands of gardens and blooms.

Here are a few moments from one summer.

Summer memories

Sunday, 17 August 2025

I love visiting Rousham Garden — it has what I can only describe as the perfect walled garden. It feels both intentional and effortlessly natural, as though the plants are allowed to be themselves while still part of a greater design.

The space hums with life. Butterflies flit between blooms, ladybirds crawl over leaves, and honey bees busily gather nectar from every available flower (though yes, there are also a few wasps who seem to have read the invitation too). If you pause for a moment, you’ll hear a variety of birds calling — some familiar, others mysterious, hidden in the greenery.

To me, this is the greatest compliment a garden can receive: when wildlife not only visits but thrives. If the bees, birds, and butterflies approve of how you're gardening, you must be doing something right. Rousham gets top marks from them — and from me, a humble admirer of nature’s quiet beauty.

I've shared a few photos below, but they only hint at the feeling of being there in person. If you ever have the chance to visit, do. It's the sort of place every gardening fan needs to visit. A time well spent.