‘Keep your eyes open for new techniques’

Floral designer Hanneke Frankema believes it is important to continuously develop and innovate. That is why she is always open to new techniques and materials. For her, experimentation is not an end in itself, but a logical part of her creative process.

She has a particular preference for wire. "It's not for nothing that I'm called 'the iron lady'. Wire is a beautiful and versatile material, and it's also practical: frames and rolls of wire are easy to transport and reusable." In addition to wire, Hanneke is also enthusiastic about new technological possibilities, such as 3D printers and 3D pens. These techniques can be used to create virtually any desired shape, which allows for even more freedom in the design process.

The floral objects she creates are very diverse, but always striking and unique. Despite this wide variety, her signature style is clearly recognizable. She often works with unusual frames and surprising combinations of colors and materials.

‘I particularly like the contrast between natural materials and other materials. I also enjoy playing with unusual colors and shapes.’

New life

For Christian Ulrich, spring is a time of renewal. When new life sprouts from seemingly dead materials and vibrant colors and delicate scents fill the air, it is spring. "My bouquet is meant to reflect all these impressions. That's why I created a frame of dried grasses, from which spring and new life sprout. For me, ranunculus and tulips are typical spring flowers. Freesias, carnations, and mimosas are the fragrant harbingers of spring. I have incorporated all these impressions into my bouquet."

‘Work hard and follow your own voice’

Sylvia Bustamante Gubbins believes in the power of flowers. She is the founder and director of Madrid Flower School and organizer of Madrid Blooms: the annual international congress for design and innovation in floral creation. According to Sylvia, the sector is more relevant than ever.

Finally... Spring

After weeks of dark days, cold, and snow, clear blue skies and sunshine are returning. You can feel that spring is about to reveal itself. Tree buds are about to burst, and here and there the first spring flowers, such as Hamamelis and Galanthus, are already appearing.

Layered contrast

For this arrangement, Krisztian Köver chose a striking mustard-colored ceramic bowl. The inside is lined on both sides with a woolen scarf, while the flowers are placed in floral foam in the center. Lisianthus, Phalaenopsis, Cambria, and Kalanchoe form the core of the design, complemented by subtle details. The interplay of ceramics, textiles, and floral material gives the work a tactile and layered appearance.

Spring frame

This large bouquet is held by Krisztians daughter Hanna and is technically constructed on a base of wires and sticks. The outer line is finished with painted feathers, which give the arrangement a distinctive frame. Cymbidium, lisianthus, lily, Viburnum, and additional materials have been incorporated into this construction. The bouquet is bound using the spiral technique and combines a strong structural base with a soft, expressive finish.