We have lots of benches at Struan Farm: around the gardens, at the pond, and at the Cottage. I like the idea of people being able to wander around and then sit and contemplate. Maurie was pleased that I liked to rehabilitate wooden benches and chairs that he'd made, but I've also acquired a few made by other artisans to add to the collection.
John seriously dislikes my most recent rustic acquisition; it was made from an old, rather solid, totara fence post. It's very heavy, and he hates the thought of having to shift it around.
It was somewhat controversial years ago when I painted the bench for the pond a bright blue. Of course shortly thereafter that color was in all of the gardening magazines. I don't know how I anticipate these trends, but I do. One thing I hadn't quite thought about is that you really do need to touch up the paint jobs annually, need to add that to my "to do" list.
I love the benches! Mine needs a foot stool and a cushion or two. I enjoy reading your blog and seeing the farm makes me crazy for summer.
Posted by: Marilyn Laktin | 09/28/2010 at 07:42 AM