Design Vogue

Designers are all about shopping their own backyards, or foraging, especially during the summer season, when so many incredible plants are in bloom. Laetitia Laurent, the founder of Laure Nell Interiors, explains how foraging is a beautiful way to bring nature indoors and how she loves encouraging clients to slow down and engage with their surroundings.

"It adds a layer of meaning and imperfection that feels grounding and authentic," Laurent says. "The most striking elements are often the ones with a little twist, lichen, or softness that remind you they came from somewhere real."

Here, interior designers speak to five of their favorite items to forage and decorate with in order to liven up their homes during the summertime and beyond. You will want to be sure to be on the lookout for these pieces as you shop your own backyard.

Branches

Laurent enjoys foraging for branches with character and appreciates decorating with a wide range of species.

"Whether it's citrus, olive, or something a bit wild and unruly, a single sculptural branch in a large vessel can make a dramatic, elevated statement," she says. "The asymmetry and movement add a sense of life that store-bought stems often lack."

Plus, branches add welcome height to any room, helping to instantly draw the eye upwards and add visual dimension.

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Dried Grasses

Dried grasses are a favorite of Laurent's as cooler weather begins to approach. She gravitates toward dried palm fronds, wild grasses, and more.

"They add texture and an organic, sculptural quality to shelves or mantels," she says.

Place yours in a planter, as seen here, and allow the greenery to liven up your desk, coffee table, you name it.

Bold Leaves

Carla Royder, the founder of Carla Royder Designs & Co, is all about decorating with big and bold leaves—her top picks include magnolia, ferns, or palm fronds.

"These babies are the drama queens of the plant world," she says.

Best of all, they can be displayed in so many different ways, the designer adds, noting that she will pop one into a vase or even turn it into a centerpiece, either on its own or with some accompanying evergreen for a bit of extra oomph.

Herbs

Laurent maintains a herb garden at home, which she draws upon for both cooking and decorating alike. She particularly likes to cut fresh rosemary or lavender and display it as part of her tablescape or nightstands for a sweet, inviting touch. She will decorate with other herbs, such as sprigs of thyme or bay leaves, turning them into makeshift napkin rings on her dining table.

"It’s such a simple touch, but it adds natural fragrance and a sense of thoughtfulness that guests always notice," she says.

Wild Findings

Royder, who lives in Texas, likes to decorate with some of the many "wild treasures" that her state has to offer. These include pinecones and pecans, which she explains are great for those whose style leans rustic, as well as seashells and river rocks, which are ideal for creating a coastal aesthetic.

Every region has its own special offerings, and you might be surprised at what you can find within the confines of your own property that you can then turn into special decor.

"Foraged decor isn’t just beautiful—it’s personal," Royder says. "Every piece has a story, whether it’s the branch you found on a morning walk or the pinecone you snagged while chasing your dog."