By Meg Harrington

Update: It’s been a crazy coupla’ weeks (including a whirlwind buying trip to France) and we’re now down to the wire at The Nest. Suddenly we’ve gone from raw sheetrock, electrical wires and heaps of HVAC materials to gorgeous and chunky trim, creamy cabinets and paint galore.  Hallelujah!  Hubby says the Nest still looks a little bit like 13-year-old with braces, but those will be coming off in the next few weeks, and not a moment too soon. Linda MacArthur’s sweet design is beginning to evolve and Michael Ladisic’s got his talented guys working their magic inside and out.

It’s also time to start thinking about the garden. Luckily, we have a dear friend who has ten green thumbs (she’s done the Atlanta Botanical Garden tour—twice!) who’s giving us some advice and helping us channel the cottage vibe into the garden.

Inspiration galore: from Pinterest and Groenergrashoveniers.)

Inspiration pictures are all over the place and I’ve told our helpful friend that I’m obsessed with boxwoods, hydrangeas, gardenias and the idea of pale pink New Dawn climbing roses. Why do I have a funny feeling the garden’s going to be in the making for quite some time?

The most gorgeous garden path—with all my fave elements. Just like interiors, garden design is all about layers, texture and color. From Tone on Tone and Pinterest.

Perfect symmetry—and look at those boxwoods. From Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles.

So meticulous and lush. (Pinterest and Hamptons Garden.)

An uber-charming back door surrounded by climbing roses. (Pinterest and Designskool)

Is there anything prettier than New Dawn roses? (Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles)

We have a two spots for the pièce de résistance: window boxes that I’m imagining will drip with all sort of green glory—like creeping jenny, rosemary, thyme and maybe a little gardenia or two.

What are your gardening go-tos?

Wish us luck!  Now I’m dreaming about the interior and where to put that zebra rug—as long as the paint is dry on May 23rd!

Stay tuned.

For more inspiration, follow Meg’s design inspiration on Pinterest and find our favorite outdoor living rooms here. 

Meet Meg: Co-owner of Huff Harrington Home and Huff Harrington Fine Art. Certified project junkie and lover of fine furnishings and décor (especially the happy marriage between crunchy antiques and modern art).  Loves all the Frenchy stuff—as well as food, wine, books, fireplaces and long quiet afternoons by the pool. She’s married to Scott and has two daughters, Molly and Lily.