For centuries, homeowners have strived to bring in nature into their homes and that love of organic materials hasn’t subsided with time. Nowadays, with the growing awareness of ruthless depletion of Earth’s resources, it’s even more apparent that having nature in our homes is essential so we could appreciate the bond we have with it.
If one of your design goals is to bring the outdoors in, these are the simple ways of doing it.
Bring nature into every room
When you start planning the decoration of your home with natural elements and materials, let nature find its way into every room – in organic sheets and bedding in your bedroom, a Zen fountain in your office, rustic twigs and leaves arrangements in vases in the entryway and the large dining table with a living edge. Design your home so it evokes the soothing powers of nature and helps you feel calm and relaxed wherever you choose to spend your time.
Choose natural elements that connect you to the outdoors
Humans have an inherent connection to the outdoors and the presence of natural elements in the home décor, such as wood, stone, grass, cotton and leather gives a feeling of having a piece of nature indoors. Whether you love a polished and sleek look or the rugged texture of natural stone, you only need to choose the style that will resonate with you and establish a natural connection to the outdoors.
Natural elements in your home will help ground the living space and having stones, wood, crystals and gems placed on your mantel, shelves and window sills will create a unique earthy vibe. Plants and greenery will complete the whole picture and tie all the elements together. Instead of brightly coloured flowers, opt for subtle and raw twigs in ceramic or glass vases that you can place on the floor in the corners of your living room. It will give the space a natural and untamed look.
Incorporate wood into your design
Wood is surely one of the most used materials in design due to its versatility, durability and richness of colour. Plus, it doesn’t get more natural than wood. By incorporating artisan-crafted wood furniture, your home will get a rustic appeal and it’ll bring back the nostalgia of the times gone by. If you prefer a more contemporary style, you can still incorporate wood in minimal lines without any intricate woodwork such as a sleek headboard in your bedroom or the kitchen bar stools.
Another way to stick to a minimalist style but still have lots of natural light and some wood present is by installing timber sliding doors in your living room. Their stylish timber and glass panels slide seamlessly to one side and bring all the fresh air and light you need allowing you to enjoy the magnificent views of your garden.
Design details that speak serenity
There are so many different details you can incorporate to your home design that it’s ultimately up to you to pick the ones that suit your taste. Be guided by the wabi-sabi principle which is a Japanese philosophy of embracing imperfection that connotes quietness and natural simplicity on one hand and beauty and serenity of aged objects on the other. By incorporating object with visible flaws, wear, rust and patina, you establish an acceptance of all natural things that is greatly beneficial both for you and your guests.
Choose clean, minimalist lines and incorporate Japanese ornaments like handmade tea sets, thin floor lamps, faux branch arrangements and objects that have history and a story to tell. Look for copper and bronze vases, planters with patina and worn leather chairs that give off a lived-in look.
You can introduce these beautiful natural elements to practically any room in your home: pastel crockery on a natural cottage-style dining table, raw clay vases in the living room, a stone dining bench and lots of wooden elements so you get a multi-layered look rich in different textures.
Natural sunlight is the best medicine
No amount of artificial lighting can compare to the natural light pouring in through your windows. Natural light can make a room come alive, it enhances the colours of your walls, furnishings and all the organic details you have incorporated and it lifts everyone’s spirits. Bring it through your existing windows and if you can, install skylights and solar tubes. If you need curtains for privacy, use subtle shades and natural, sheer fabrics.
Regardless of the style you’re going for, be it modern, urban or rustic, natural elements will give your home an organic appeal and create an atmosphere of peace, serenity and comfort. Hopefully, you’ll find the tips listed here helpful once you start designing your home.
