Inspired by the beauty of nature, Cordelia de Castellane has crafted a life intertwined with blossoms and verdant landscapes. Much like Christian Dior, whose early years were shaped by his family’s lush gardens in Normandy, de Castellane’s passion for flora stems from her childhood memories in the Swiss Alps. These recollections, filled with botanical collections made alongside her grandmother, have grown into a lifelong devotion to cultivating and celebrating flowers. This deep connection to nature not only fuels her creative vision as an artistic director but also serves as a sanctuary for personal reflection.
Gardening became a profound source of solace for de Castellane following the loss of her father. In 2018, she transformed this healing journey into reality by acquiring a picturesque manor house in L’Oise, France. Here, amidst rolling hills just an hour north of Paris, she embraced the therapeutic act of tending to the land. Her newfound focus led her to collaborate with talented landscape designer Milan Hajsinek, resulting in a breathtaking garden bursting with vibrant blooms such as David Austin roses, peonies, and lavender. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this haven offers year-round enjoyment, including gatherings within a serene pale blue greenhouse.
Through her latest literary endeavor, Flower Couture, published by Rizzoli, de Castellane invites readers into her world of floral splendor. Captured through the lens of photographer Billal Taright, the book chronicles her enchanting garden across the seasons while sharing practical insights on arranging flowers and enhancing table settings. With wisdom gained from experience, she encourages budding enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the art of gardening. By embracing resources such as podcasts and books, one can unlock a lifelong passion that enriches both spirit and surroundings.