Boxwood Opens: "Homes should be as colorful and vibrant as the people who live in them....”

Walking past the corner of Prince and South Royal, you can’t help but be pulled in by the vibrant, eclectic pieces that fill a store window. Sweet Tea candles, furniture painted in the perfect blues, gorgeous throw pillows, and a plentiful amount of beautiful boxwood plants line the rustic shelves. The home decor shop is rightfully named after these signature greens: Boxwood.“Our inspiration for Boxwood's product mix comes from a range of factors including ethical sourcing, materials, colors, and stories,” says owner Leah Donahue. “When we evaluate what to bring into the store, we're always thinking about how these elements work together.”The idea of Boxwood was born when Leah and Joanna Szczerban met by chance. Joanna was looking for a new business partner who shared her vision, and Leah was starting an interior design business after more than a decade working in public affairs. It was a match made in heaven and after a whirlwind two months, the pair opened the decor and gifts store.The one piece of design advice that Leah gives anyone who walks into the store is, “Don't be afraid of color! I always encourage people to push the envelope and experiment with bolder choices. That and always buy art if you love it. Don't worry if it matches anything. Our vision for Boxwood actually stems from our belief that homes should be as colorful and vibrant as the people who live in them.”Speaking of art, not only is Boxwood filled with unique treasures, it also showcases local art. All featured paintings are by local artist Judy Heiser. Her works are intricate layers of acrylic, ink, pastels, and oils on canvas or wood panels.Did you know that Boxwood has a long history in Virginia? The traditional shrubs have always been a staple of Virginia homes. The American Boxwood Society is actually headquartered in Boyce. A 1970 New York Times article even proclaimed that the state was ‘The Land of the Boxwood.’Joanna first suggested the name for its simplicity and nod to tradition, while still having appeal to younger families. When Leah decorated the historic Duvall House on Cameron Street, owned by Nancy and Chris Marzilli, for the Scottish Christmas Home Tour, she used boxwood garland on each of the nine fireplace mantles.Whether you are fans of this cheerful greenery, or are simply looking for that perfect gift or centerpiece addition, you are guaranteed to find it at this welcoming shop.