THE?GARDENS of neighbours Mr and Mrs Rey Royer and Mr and Mrs Andrew Brewster, located at Hopewell, St Thomas, have been created by Paulette Royer.
The Royer’s property Les Champs is located on about 19 000 square feet and the garden artistically wraps around the somewhat centrally placed house, with meandering grass pathways defined by curved, deeply chiselled edges.
According to Paulette, this meticulously manicured garden has been frequently described as “noticeably beautiful” – one that creates excitement and happiness, yet is soothing and tranquil.
It is not a large garden by any means, but one that is lush, bright and cheerful with its curved beds of any and everything lovely that will grow, artistically positioned and pruned.
Crotons of every description are placed strategically along with acalyphas, petunias, impatiens and coleus for their vivid colours.
An interesting selection of palms is aesthetically located throughout the garden. These include specimens of Triangle, Red, Yellow and Blue Latans, Spindle, Cocothrinax, Teddy Bear, Sky Duster, Bottle, Queen, FoxTail, FishTail, Pygmy and, of course, Golden Palms.
A charming open-air deck on the northern side of the house is a great spot to relax and enjoy this section of the garden in the cool of the afternoon. A large gorgeous burgundy crinum lily, variety “Lady Emma”, enhances the beauty of this section of the garden.
At the Brewsters, a variety of colour awaits you at their property “Anche”, which is approximately 38 000 square feet bordered by a gully – a reflection of the personalities of the owners as Caribbean people.
The understated elegance of this Paulette Royer design is cultivated yet carefree, exuding a free, uninhibited spirit. The mood of the garden is festive and has a carnival atmosphere, reflecting a joie de vivre.
As you enter, you get a burst of sunshine from the blooming “Rose of Sharon” on the left and a kaleidoscope of colourful plants complimenting the tangerine façade of the house. The various plants and shrubs are strategically placed for maximum impact on the discerning eye.
At the rear, cooling St Thomas breezes waft through the picturesque bougainvillea.
The garden is not only decorative but also productive, with fruit trees and a herb garden. The atmosphere is relaxed, with a strong tropical flavour.
Wandering through, one get a sense of tranquility. According to Cheryl, their garden’s motto is “Don’t Worry, Be Happy.”
