Finer Touches

As Spring is upon us, making outside spaces standout is at the forefront of the designer mind. Abode2 spoke to Simon Scott, Head of Design of ORNAMENTI by Lapicida, to discover their new collection of statement garden ornaments

ORNAMENTI by Lapicida is an expertly curated collection of handcrafted planters, ornaments, furniture and accessories, suited for both private gardens and interiors, as well larger landscape projects.

Simon comments: “When curating the ORNAMENTI by Lapicida collection, we wanted to source unique, unusual pieces that weren’t readily available in the average garden centre. Therefore, many of the products have been made specially for us and can’t be found anywhere else.

“The collection draws its inspirations from different sources – some of the designs are very English in style, whilst others have classical roots and origins. The common denominator is that each of the designs can be considered a classic - whether replicating or being inspired by timeless, traditional styles. We have also embraced new materials and finishes so the designs are all suited for contemporary living. Traditional designs for a modern world if you like.”

Made in the UK and Europe using the finest materials, including Vicenza limestone, Zinc, Galestro clay as well as durable Lead and Steel, the range perfectly aligns with the quality and signature aesthetic of Lapicida’s existing collections. The extensive ORNAMENTI collection includes plain and decorative planters, sundials, garden benches, fountains and other statement pieces, available in a range of materials and finishes.

Simon continues: “A designed garden or landscape has long been a key desire amongst designers and clients – the introduction of man-made designs into a natural environment. The intention here at ORNAMENTI is to provide a unique offering that embraces that aesthetic.”

Grand in scale and concept, many of the designs are exclusive to ORNAMENTI, resulting in a truly unique outdoor offering. The collection pays tribute to both traditional and modern manufacturing processes; many items have been created by hand by expert craftsmen. This commitment to championing British and European craft is very much in line with Lapicida’s own brand ethos and manufacturing methods.

Simon adds: “Garden ornaments provide focal points in a garden – something to draw the eye. A planter, fountain, obelisk or seat can add style to almost any exterior space. On a practical level, a stylish planter also allows for the introduction of plants into a hard landscape where excavation is not possible (likewise with a self-circulating fountain) or where the soil is not conducive to a particular plant variety. Those same designs work as well in a stylish contemporary balcony in London as they do in a rural manor house or barn conversion in the country. There are also many opportunities to use ornaments inside as well as out, most obviously in a garden room, orangery or alongside a swimming pool. Indeed, a number of designs in the ORNAMENTI range are specifically for interior use. Scale is key though – one large focal point, or a series, is normally much more successful in a garden or outdoor space than a muddled collection of small designs. Certainly, the designs in our launch collection have scale”

Alongside these uniquely sourced designs ORNAMENTI also offer a bespoke service allowing clients to request custom creations, some realised using sophisticated 3D software and advanced CNC machinery, ensuring limitless design potential for the garden and home.

Simon explains: “ORNAMENTI will continue to expand its core collection of designs whilst also introducing new materials and product categories. And, being part of the Lapicida Group, ORNAMENTI can also manufacture bespoke designs or source garden and landscape ornaments to meet precise requirements. As an example, entirely in-house, Lapicida can scan any object, from an existing priceless statue to a classic car, and render it in 3D using sophisticated software and one of the world’s largest 5-Axis CNC Shaping Mills. The skills on site here are truly amazing.”

Simon Concludes: “More than ever, we are appreciating our gardens and outdoor spaces. Various lockdowns and difficulties in travelling have made us all look again at our living spaces and filled us with a desire to enhance them for our enjoyment. It may be trite to say that the garden is an extension of the house, an outdoor living space – but it is true. Personally, during lockdown, I was lucky enough to practically live and work in a courtyard at my home surrounded by zinc, terracotta and stone planters. Very calming.”

The collection can be viewed at Lapicida’s Harrogate showroom, where ORNAMENTI has an inspiring and stylish new display garden; airy, idyllic and expansive it is the perfect showcase.

www.ornamenti.co.uk