architecture | modflowers ✿

I’ve been thinking about my sign dilemma over a pleasantly busy weekend.

I spent my Saturday soaking up art and architecture at the wonderful Wirksworth Festival, whilst lad and his dad went to a football match.

(I definitely had the better day – Luton Town lost 3 – 0).

a few highlights from Wirksworth art and architecture trail

And on Sunday I thought about it in between giggling at the creations at Hickling Scarecrow Festival.

Some of Hickling’s scarecrows – on a “best of British” theme!

I loved reading your sign suggestions!

It’s always good to get a bunch of perspectives. And to sleep on it before making up your mind.

Even if it does make your head spin a bit

I tried out the lettering on the only plain coloured fabric I have, as suggested by Rachel.

Bold and bright certainly, but it’s somehow just too…. solid?

And too blue.

Even with a border.

Then I tried another option:

But it’s just too… busy.

I know I said busy is good.

But perhaps you can have too much of a good thing?

Its something to do with scale. And the fading isn’t a good look either.

And then I remembered this.

It’s bold. Its bright.

It’s full-on modflowers, turned up to the max!

It’s actually a sun lounger sling. Genuine sturdy 1970s canvas and until now, totally unused.

I think it works! This could be it!

Or am I deluded?

That canvas will be a nightmare to sew…

And I do quite like my original choice still!

So…

I’m not promising to abide by the option with the most votes, mind…

Mapperley Park is an area of Nottingham not far from where I live.

Just down the road, in fact.

Up until around 1900, the area was mainly forest belonging to Mapperley Hall. Then the land was sold off to the great and good of the City of Nottingham who, at no small expense, erected their dwellings upon it.

Sunday afternoon saw Mapperley Park’s first Open Gardens event.

I love an opportunity for a spot of garden gawking. I will actively seek out the chance to traipse shamelessly across strangers’ lawns for a fun afternoon out.

When there are homemade cakes / Pimms / strawberries and cream in the offing, you can’t keep me away.

The chance to peep into the secret gardens of beautiful and extravagant period properties just couldn’t be missed.

Mapperley Park is crammed full of the most beautiful houses.

Architectural styles range through Gothic fantasy piles, Arts and Crafts cottages, modest Victorian semi-detacheds, enormous villas and grand Edwardian mansions. Some, such as those displaying their gardens today, are beautifully and lovingly kept.

Others are neglected and run down, divided into a multitude of bedsits. The epitome of faded glamour.