District Floral, Michelle Faber
Murals of Local Driving Routes
Photographed by Costola Photography
Florist’s Interpretation
I was inspired by the Driving Maps for several reasons. This trio of murals are custom painted on the walls, and are so clearly deeply personal to the Andersons. I love all the detail and different elements, from the boats in the water, soft clouds and classic homes, to the framing & perspective.
I found the inclusion of the Anderson’s in their little red car especially endearing. The natural light from the sunroom beams in on the couple’s journey with such grace, another nod to the personal and thoughtful design. I can’t help but connect with the maps of a place I have called home all my life.
In this floral design, I have tried to capture the movement of Virginia’s landscape & the graceful engineering of the natural environment. Virginia is full of lush, picturesque blooms, rolling hills and rivers, and now bustling cities. I used specific foliage, blooms, texture and color to correspond with the maps most prominent features, some of which are native to the region. This room looks out to the lovely garden and reflection pool, so I wanted to create a romantic garden style design.
My goal is to create a floral experience that reflects the Anderson’s classic Virginia style and the love embodied by their beautifully preserved home.
- Michelle Faber
Murals of Local Driving Routes
The Andersons were enthusiastic motorists and commissioned these two murals mapping their favorite driving routes (marked in red) in and around Washington. Completed in 1909, the larger mural (at right) depicts their routes in DC and suburban Maryland, and landmarks including the U.S. Capitol, Union Station, Naval Observatory, National Zoo, Soldiers’ Home, and Great Falls. The left mural shows DC and Northern VA and includes the Washington Monument, Arlington House, Fort Myer, and Mount Vernon.
Title: Murals of Local Driving Routes
Artist/Creator: H. Siddons Mowbray
Date of Creation: ca. 1908-1909
Location: First floor, Winter Garden
Michelle Faber
“My focus is on sustainable, thoughtful, and creative floral design. I no longer use foam products, encourage transparency & ethical design practice, and look for ways to support local growers, and my community!”