If you have summer planting in your plans, consider vintage planters to make a chic statement on your patio. Hesitant to invest in vintage pots? We feel you. Let us be the first to quell your fears with a go-to guide that breaks down all of the basics.
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Neoclassical Reproductions
A category that consists of shapely urns and playful (plantable) busts, Neoclassical pots are perfect for lending sophistication to any yard. If you’re hunting for Neoclassical pots, note that there’s a wide price range. Authentic marble antiques can cost thousands of dollars, while reproductions tend to cost a lot — lot — less. When shopping Neoclassical, you’ll also want to pay some mind to what finishes most speak to you. Rustic gray concrete finishes are widely available, as are white-wash concrete finishes. For a more polished look, consider cast iron.
Italian Ceramics
Frequently showcasing bright hues and playful, figural shapes, Italian ceramic planters are ideal for creating a whimsical garden landscape. For a retro, Mid-Century look, consider seeking out planters by Bitossi. The iconic Mid-Century brand often worked in color palettes like blue and green as well as yellow and brown. Many Italian planters, including many Italian animal planters, work well with the Hollywood Regency style. This makes them a great partner for pool furniture designed by brands like Brown Jordan or Russel Wright.
Chinese Porcalain
For yards that could use some elaborate ornamentation, consider Chinese porcelain pots. A pleasing orb-like shape with a slightly tapered bottom makes these pots endlessly versatile, while intricate decoration makes them perfect for offsetting simpler plant such as a topiaries. You can also take fishbowl planters — traditional Chinese pots featuring fish motifs on the interior — and fashion them into simple garden fountains.
Mid-Century Modern
Mid-Century Modern planters lend a clean, minimalist aesthetic to any yard. For colorful, oversized planters, look for designs from brands like Architectural Pottery and Gainey. Both brands specialized in sleek, simple pots in a wide range of rainbow hues. Those looking for an iconic MCM design might also keep an eye out for “bullet” planters. Featuring a large, round-bottom planter set in a wrought iron pedestal, these unique planters procure interesting height. Try them filled with an architectural plant like a palm or succulent to play up their sculptural qualities.
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Lead photo design by Jamie Bush + Co. / Grey Crawford
