5 Home Lessons We Learned From Mary Poppins
Before ‘Mary Poppins Returns’ hits theaters, we look at inspiration from the supercalifragilisticexpialidocious nanny
More than 50 years after an unconventional nanny with a magical umbrella charmed her way into the Banks family home and our cultural consciousness, Mary Poppins is making a comeback this month by way of a sequel, Mary Poppins Returns. The movie, starring Emily Blunt in the role made famous by Julie Andrews in Disney’s 1964 original film, lands in U.S. theaters Dec. 19. But before it does, we’re looking back on all the ways the classic story sets a sweet and sensible example when it comes to matters of the home.
Mary Poppins, 1964, Movie Poster, 13"x19"
Plus, a collection of umbrellas typically calls for a stand, a cubby or another holder. The practical accent piece can often add an extra touch of welcoming character in an entryway, whether you’re storing muddy boots or a flying nanny’s preferred mode of transportation.
See the top 10 entryway photos of 2018
See the top 10 entryway photos of 2018
2. Get Creative With Storage
Mary Poppins’ signature carpetbag of tricks is comically roomy, filled with everything from a full-size hat stand to a potted plant to an antique wall mirror. “Never judge things by their appearance,” she tells the amazed Banks children in the movie. “Even carpetbags.”
It’s good advice in general, but when it comes to storing a surprising amount of stuff in an unexpected place, that scene is particularly prescriptive. Something like a loft bed staircase that doubles as a chest of drawers, as seen in this London space, embodies the same sense of creativity and sneaky storage spirit. (Check local building codes for requirements on stair handrails in your area.)
Other examples might be narrow pullout spice racks tucked between the stove and the cabinets, closet mirrors that open into jewelry boxes or guest beds that fold up into walls when not in use.
Thinking outside the box (or outside the carpetbag) when it comes to keeping things organized around the house does more than tackle the clutter — in some cases it can add an almost magical dose of personality too.
See more storage inspiration photos
Mary Poppins’ signature carpetbag of tricks is comically roomy, filled with everything from a full-size hat stand to a potted plant to an antique wall mirror. “Never judge things by their appearance,” she tells the amazed Banks children in the movie. “Even carpetbags.”
It’s good advice in general, but when it comes to storing a surprising amount of stuff in an unexpected place, that scene is particularly prescriptive. Something like a loft bed staircase that doubles as a chest of drawers, as seen in this London space, embodies the same sense of creativity and sneaky storage spirit. (Check local building codes for requirements on stair handrails in your area.)
Other examples might be narrow pullout spice racks tucked between the stove and the cabinets, closet mirrors that open into jewelry boxes or guest beds that fold up into walls when not in use.
Thinking outside the box (or outside the carpetbag) when it comes to keeping things organized around the house does more than tackle the clutter — in some cases it can add an almost magical dose of personality too.
See more storage inspiration photos
3. Keep Your (Chim Chim) Chimney Tidy and Safe
Bert the chimney sweep plays a major role in Mary Poppins, shining a sooty spotlight on an infrequently talked-about aspect of home care: a well-maintained fireplace and ventilation system. Experts say buildup of smoke residue (also known as creosote) or soot, or cracks inside a chimney or chimney liner in wood-burning and gas fireplaces can lead to house fires or carbon monoxide exposure. So it’s best to have all chimneys, flues and vents inspected by a chimney-cleaning professional annually. The more you use a fireplace, the more often you may need to have it checked. Not only does regular maintenance keep fireplaces and chimneys safe, but it also ensures their features keep working the way they’re supposed to.
Unfortunately, unlike Bert and his “Chim Chim Cher-ee” pals, most chimney-cleaning professionals don’t include a rooftop dance routine in their services. (But, hey, it never hurts to ask.)
Before You Roast Those Chestnuts, Make Sure You’ve Got a Clean Chimney
Find a chimney-cleaning service near you
Bert the chimney sweep plays a major role in Mary Poppins, shining a sooty spotlight on an infrequently talked-about aspect of home care: a well-maintained fireplace and ventilation system. Experts say buildup of smoke residue (also known as creosote) or soot, or cracks inside a chimney or chimney liner in wood-burning and gas fireplaces can lead to house fires or carbon monoxide exposure. So it’s best to have all chimneys, flues and vents inspected by a chimney-cleaning professional annually. The more you use a fireplace, the more often you may need to have it checked. Not only does regular maintenance keep fireplaces and chimneys safe, but it also ensures their features keep working the way they’re supposed to.
Unfortunately, unlike Bert and his “Chim Chim Cher-ee” pals, most chimney-cleaning professionals don’t include a rooftop dance routine in their services. (But, hey, it never hurts to ask.)
Before You Roast Those Chestnuts, Make Sure You’ve Got a Clean Chimney
Find a chimney-cleaning service near you
4. Make Room for Imagination
Loosening the rules and embracing playfulness, particularly when it comes to children, is at the heart of Mary Poppins’ philosophy in her dealings with the Banks family. The same approach can open up exciting new possibilities in home design too. Children’s spaces, such as the playroom seen here, offer an especially good opportunity to make bold, whimsical choices that encourage creativity and imagination.
See more playroom ideas
Loosening the rules and embracing playfulness, particularly when it comes to children, is at the heart of Mary Poppins’ philosophy in her dealings with the Banks family. The same approach can open up exciting new possibilities in home design too. Children’s spaces, such as the playroom seen here, offer an especially good opportunity to make bold, whimsical choices that encourage creativity and imagination.
See more playroom ideas
But there’s no reason grown-ups can’t enjoy a little fun too. To capture that carefree “Let’s Go Fly a Kite” vibe, homeowners can embrace more daring or dreamy details, like the hanging textured poufs shown here.
5. Just a Spoonful of Sugar Works Wonders
In home design and care, as with so many other things, a little bit of sweetness goes a long way. Whether it’s tempering a dreaded year-end attic clean-out with upbeat music or breaking up a solemn space with a quirky conversation piece, a spoonful of something comforting can shift a home’s energy or a homeowner’s outlook in the most delightful way.
In home design and care, as with so many other things, a little bit of sweetness goes a long way. Whether it’s tempering a dreaded year-end attic clean-out with upbeat music or breaking up a solemn space with a quirky conversation piece, a spoonful of something comforting can shift a home’s energy or a homeowner’s outlook in the most delightful way.
Mary Poppins Wall Sticker, 44"x50"
Tell us: What did you learn from Mary Poppins? Which other classic characters inspire you at home? Share your thoughts in the Comments.
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Even if your umbrella can’t carry you high above the London skyline like Mary Poppins’ can, having a few of the non-magical variety on hand near the door in case of bad weather is always wise. Not only is stocking your entryway with umbrellas a great way to keep soggy family members and pets from dripping throughout the house, it also sends a thoughtful message to housemates and guests that you, as a homeowner, have their backs.
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