Magnolia Magic Breezes Into the Home
Real or not, the leaves and blossoms of this Southern tree infuse any room with gracious charm
With the warm winter we've had in Alabama, all kinds of trees and flowers are putting buds out way earlier than normal — and I'm crossing my fingers that my very favorite, the iconic Southern magnolia, will be among them. Although the first thing that comes to mind when most people think of these towering trees is their heady, distinctive scent, they're as pleasing to the eye as to the nose: saucer-size white blossoms; glossy, evergreen foliage; and branches that spread like a welcoming hug.
Magnolia leaves are a Christmastime classic, but they're just as striking in the summer months, with or without their blooms. And if you don't happen to live in a region where magnolia trees grow, take heart: There are all kinds of ways to bring them into your décor. Take a look at these ideas for inspiration.
Magnolia leaves are a Christmastime classic, but they're just as striking in the summer months, with or without their blooms. And if you don't happen to live in a region where magnolia trees grow, take heart: There are all kinds of ways to bring them into your décor. Take a look at these ideas for inspiration.
This simple, spare arrangement lets the sculptural quality of magnolias shine. Adding a few buds in addition to fully opened blooms is a beautiful touch to round out a display of almost any flower.
As minimal as it gets, a magnolia-leaf screen highlights the crisp, strong form of the tree's foliage. It reinvents a very traditional motif in a wholly modern way.
To me, one of the best parts of a magnolia leaf is its soft, velvety brown underside. This arrangement shows that aspect off nicely — and the color enriches the tans and beiges in the room.
The color of this wall paint — Magnolia by Dunn Edwards — perfectly captures the creamy, soft essence of the petals. Deep green accents would intensify the feeling of being underneath those spreading branches.
Dainty magnolia-print wallpaper feels just right for this sweet bedroom. Using prints and patterns with a tie to a home's location is a wonderful method of creating a sense of place.
Custom magnolia tile beneath the range hood in this kitchen creates a pretty focal point. It's easy to have tiles painted with any motif that suits you, be it floral, botanical or something entirely different.
Ceramic magnolias add a pretty, feminine note to this bath. They're just understated enough to lend a little flourish without detracting from the clean lines.
More:
Great Design Tree: Star Magnolia
If This Bloom Were a Room
How to Bring Spring Into Your Home With Floral Décor
Sixties Southern Style: Inspiration from 'The Help'
More:
Great Design Tree: Star Magnolia
If This Bloom Were a Room
How to Bring Spring Into Your Home With Floral Décor
Sixties Southern Style: Inspiration from 'The Help'