A Conscious Guide to Sculptural Floral Arrangements

Ikebana, the Japanese art of floral arrangement, is as much about balance and emotion as it is about form. Kasia Borowiecka, founder of the floral studio Cosmos and Plums, has studied the practice extensively. “It’s not just about arranging flowers; it’s about creating harmony between the natural world and the artist’s emotions,” she explains.

Borowiecka’s journey to floristry was unconventional. After a career in the social care sector as a data analyst, she transitioned into interior styling, where her passion for flowers blossomed. Inspired by ikebana’s Buddhist origins, she embraced her focus on the awareness of nature’s transient rhythm. “A flower begins to fade the moment it’s cut,” she reflects. “There’s so much beauty in the cycle of life – vitality, decline, and even the end. It’s meditative and makes you appreciate each stem so much more.”

Her work combines contemporary still-life artistry with painterly elegance, highlighting natural textures and sculptural forms. “I have always wanted to do something different,” she says.

Over time, her designs transitioned from lush, layered arrangements to a minimalist, Japanese-inspired aesthetic that celebrates the beauty of nature, seasonality, and, whenever possible, locally sourced materials. Grounded in Ikebana’s Shinto roots, her work reflects a deep respect for nature, encouraging an appreciation for impermanence and the fleeting beauty of each moment.

Header Image: Doctor Cooper Studio

“Emptiness is just as important as the elements you include. Using fewer stems or branches with interesting shapes creates breathing room and elegance.”

French florist, Estelle, and founder of Provence-based floral studio, Les Fleurs d’Alkonost, is also a strong advocate for using seasonal flowers in weddings. “Seasonal florals are always a great choice. Not only do they align beautifully with the aesthetic of your wedding, but their quality is also unmatched. Because they’re grown naturally and haven’t traveled long distances, they last longer and look fresher on the day itself.”

Both Kasia and Estelle, channel timeless principles into sustainable floral designs – and share their tips for incorporating seasonality and sustainability into floral creations for weddings, dinners, or other special events.

Tune Into The Seasons

“I started listening to what’s outside and working more with what’s in season. That’s something ikebana really taught me,” says Borowiecka. Each season brings its own treasures. Summer bursts with English roses, sweet peas and lush peonies, while autumn delivers dahlias in rich oranges, burgundies, and rust tones. For spring weddings, she suggests delicate Icelandic poppies, scented daffodils and moody fritillarias, blooms that feel authentic and perfectly in tune with nature’s rhythm.

Start with a Mood

“I always suggest thinking beyond specific flowers and focusing on a color scheme or an overall mood,” Borowiecka explains. By starting with inspiration drawn from art – like paintings or sculptures – floral designs can feel unique, personal, and timeless, rather than simply replicating Pinterest trends. “It’s about creating something memorable, guided by a feeling or palette, not rigidly tied to specific flowers or trends.” That’s in line with Les Fleurs d’Alkonost design philosophy: “Start by determining a color palette and style that you love, and we’ll help you find blooms that bring your vision to life. If you’re getting married in summer in the South of France and love bright, sculptural arrangements, dahlias offer so many possibilities. For a September wedding with a more wild, romantic feel, cosmos are perfect – they’re light, whimsical, and incredibly delicate.”

Trust Local Growers and Your Florist

Trusting your florist and embracing local growers is key to her approach. “We often work with UK growers, which means the flowers available can vary month to month,” she notes. Flexibility is essential, as what nature provides changes with the seasons. Peonies, for instance, aren’t available in winter, and guiding clients toward more seasonal alternatives often leads to surprising and beautiful results. Borowiecka encourages couples to trust the process and enjoy the serendipity of seasonal blooms.

Less is More

Less is often more, she believes. “Using just one or two varieties of flowers can have a much greater impact. Minimal arrangements allow each stem to shine, and there’s less waste.” Her pared-back, ikebana-inspired approach celebrates the form and texture of each individual flower, allowing breathing space and focus.

Put Sustainability First

Sustainability is a core part of Borowiecka’s ethos, though she acknowledges there is always more to learn and improve upon, striving for progress rather than perfection. “We try to avoid imported flowers especially those flown in from faraway countries and heavily sprayed with chemicals,” she explains. Instead, when project allows she works with local growers and avoids floral foam, which she describes as “a green box full of plastic particles that never decompose.” Sustainable mechanics, like wire, twigs, or traditional Japanese kenzan (flower frog), replace harmful materials. To reduce waste further, leftover flowers can be gifted to guests after events. “It’s such a lovely way to extend the joy of the day and make sure the flowers are appreciated for as long as possible.”

Designing Seasonable Tablescapes

When designing a seasonal tablescape, Borowiecka believes in looking beyond flowers to create a setting that’s thoughtful and layered. “Incorporating fruits and vegetables adds depth and a natural, seasonal touch,” she says. Vibrant citrus brings energy to winter tables, while earthy gourds anchor autumn gatherings with texture and warmth. Minimalist arrangements inspired by ikebana play with negative space, highlighting the singular beauty of each element. “Emptiness is just as important as the elements you include. Using fewer stems or branches with interesting shapes creates breathing room and elegance.”

Consider Scent and Texture

Fragrance is another consideration, especially for food-centric gatherings. Seasonal herbs like rosemary or thyme subtly perfume the air, while fruits such as figs and oranges add both aroma and color. “Everything on the table should work together – from textures and colors to the scents and even the food itself. “It’s a feast for all the senses.”

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