lovely lilac

over the last few days, the group of unattractive, scrubby bushes that line

my backyard have been transformed into a bevy of lilac blossoms. growing up, i lived in a house

with several lilac bushes in the yard, and i always looked forward to seeing them bloom every year. 

there is something about the smell of lilacs, and the beautiful gradient of purples in their blooms that i find so inspiring. if you would have asked me a few years ago what my least favortite color was, 

i would have answered "purple" without hesitation.

but, now? well, let's just say i have changed my mind...in a big way.

this room is lilac at it's best. just that hint of deep, muted purple at the windows is enough to give this

room a sophisticated, feminine feel.

pictures like this feed my soul.

this bold rug brings this neutral room to life. 

(and the gothic arch window and wainscoting are certainly helping out as well...)

***

here are a few ways to add a dose of lilac to your home:

schumacher's stripedot in lilac would make a great cover for an ottoman.

these linen pillows are currently out of stock at wisteria, but i loved the hushed, 

greyed-out purple tones... and the texture.

this lupe rug by madeline weinrib could transform an entry.

 i can picture this fabric as a bedskirt or some window treatments in a little girls room,

paired with pale, taupey-grey walls, and pops of mustard yellow.

  this wallpaper would look great in a master bath, paired with

dark wood cabinetry and white marble.

if lilac wallpaper scares you, you could start off by adding just a hint of purple

with these glass knobs.

you may recognize this pretty bedspread from here.

not quite eady to take the plunge and add some lilac into your decorating plans?

then start here...fresh, fragrant and lovely.

(images from houzz)