Enchanting Styer's Terrain

While hopping around Chester County (Pa.) and environs we dropped in on the new Terrain at Styer's on Baltimore Pike in Glen Mills.

There is only one word to describe this place: "Enchanting!"

Terrain at Styer's is a Garden Center, Greenhouse Cafe, Home Decor Shop and Landscaping Service all combined in a beguiling atmosphere that soothes your jangled nerves and gives you hope for a aesthetically sensitive world.

Styer's likes to say that they've been bringing people and plants together since 1890 when Jacob Styer opened a flower stand alongside Route 1 in Philadelphia. Over the years Styer's has emerged as one of the country's most respected names in gardening with a 10 acre treasure trove of trees, shrubs, perennials and other plants. All of that is still intact.

But now, there is so much more.

Styer's has combined with Terrain to produce a one-stop destination that is a veritable year-round feast for the senses.

Terrain has picked through barns and bazaars to collect unique garden and home artifacts. Everyone promise unusual items but this place delivers. Their selection includes designs by American, European, and Asian artisans - things you will find nowhere else.

Of course the live and simulated plants and flowers defy description and it's often difficult to distinguish what's real and what isn't.

Right now Terrain at Styer's is a testament to understated Christmas beauty, proving that over the holidays less can truly be more. Simple, whimsical decorative items present the season of joy in a totally new light - calmer, purer and easier on the eyes.

And the cafe offers a simple lunch, brunch and dinner menu in a greenhouse atmosphere that is charming and nostalgic. Plus, a special Chef's Dinner is offered on the third Thursday of every month.

Here's the bottom line on this place: It simply must be experienced!