Inside Darby Stanchfield’s Gorgeous Patio Garden

Down to Earth

Darby Stanchfield, who plays Abby Whelan on Scandal, has a serious green thumb. Her patio garden produces bumper crops of veggies, tomatoes, and herbs—fuel for huge salads that make coworkers envious. “I’m the brown‑bagger on set,” she says.

Signature Style

Darby sets alfresco lunches on her patio with a cloth over a coffee table and floor cushions. “Even outdoor rooms need textiles—it keeps the atmosphere cozy.” Her Alaska upbringing (dad a commercial fisherman, foraging for morels and salmonberries) and grandfather’s Washington garden sparked her love of fresh flavor.

Darby’s Persimmon Pistachio Salad

Toss romaine with persimmon wedges, avocado chunks, chopped dill, and raw unsalted pistachios. Drizzle with half a Meyer lemon juice and extra‑virgin olive oil. Sprinkle sea salt and cracked pepper.

Q&A with Darby

Day Job: “Scandal—15 hours of pretend in designer clothes with people I adore.”
I Start My Day By: “Watering my vegetable garden.”
Personal Style: “Strong lines, simple, clean—with a killer shoe.”
Can’t Live Without: “Phone calls with my mom and sister.”
Favorite Decor Source: “Anthropologie—great home goods, inspiring store installations.”
Words I Live By: “You can do anything if you set your mind to it.”
Favorite Trend: “Wallpaper—my bedroom has champagne string with palm leaf, old Hollywood Regency vibe.”
What I’m Reading: “An Astronaut’s Guide to Life on Earth by Chris Hadfield.”
I Get Inspired By: “The Archangel Ancient Tree Archive, propagating old tree species.”
Favorite Escape: “Yosemite National Park.”
Best Entertaining Tip: “Bake something—guests feel special.”
Hidden Talent: “Organizing.”

A Few of Darby’s Favorite Things

• Oil & Vinegar: Rosemary Olive Oil & Fig Balsamic Vinegar ($19 each, laquintaoliveoilcompany.com)
• T‑shirt: Classic organic cotton, low‑impact dye ($28.50, alternativeapparel.com)
• Hat: Gold Coast Lifeguard Hat ($19.99, ebags.com)
• Candle: Voluspa Saijo Persimmon ($8, anthropologie.com)
• Music: Cesaria Evora’s rich voice
• Sweet Treat: Endangered Species dark chocolate ($2.99, vitacost.com)