A Striking Hands-on Secret Garden

Something has us gravitating towards outdoor spaces lately. Perhaps it is being mid-makeover on our freshly lofted sunroom? Perhaps it is wishful thinking that summer is not ending? Whatever it is, we loving Stacy’s transformation of her backyard into a quaint and cozy green space. Here is her letter:

There were several books from my childhood that affected my view on life and how I hoped my home to be when I grew up. One of them was a book titled Mandy, and another was The Secret Garden. I have consistently hoped a space that was all mine. A space that perhaps did not function as anything other than a retreat and a place to image and dream. Welcome to my secret garden.

Here is what the area looked like before:

This garden took nearly four months to create. Not only do I have four small children, but I was at the mercy of mother nature. Plus, I had to build the fence on two sides. It was harder to get wrapped up that any other “room” I have ever done.

Next to the bench I have an outdoor solar powered lamp and in the corner there is a trellis. Next to the trellis is one of my go-to things about the whole garden. My moss art! I ENJOY moss so this seemed like the ideal fit for my space.

I used an old apple crate for all my gardening supplies (see above). I enjoy that not only is it functional, but especially cute! There is also the ladder from my Better Homes and Gardens photoshoot that I turned into a plant stand last year. I do not think the pictures truly capture the effect this mirror has on the space. It was not until I hung the mirror that it felt like a room. I got it for $15.00!

Thanks for touring my secret (okay, not so secret anymore) garden! I am so excited to have it done so can start on the next project. -Stacy

Amidst all of Stacy’s cool projects in this space (which you can find linked to at the end of her journal post about the space) I think I am charmed most by her casual stone and moss path throughout the space. And Sherry loves those excellent arched doors in that dark chocolate stain. Quite secret garden indeed. Thanks for sharing your garden with us, Stacy!