Living in the forest, in the mountains, or along the beach is a beautiful way to connect with the sights and sounds of nature.
But most of us are not that fortunate. Nonetheless, taking natural flora and fauna as inspiration, it is easy to be creative and dream up lovely design ideas that will bring the outside in. Here are a few to think about.
• Natural Collection When you find yourself in a local park or at the beach, keep an eye out for pretty rocks (heart-shaped stones are my favorites!), bits of beach glass, pine cones, and shapely twigs. Arrange them in a wooden tray and put them on display to remind you of where you were and how you felt when you were there.
• Pure Palette Take inspiration from colors found outdoors, in nature: forest green, rose red, sunshine yellow, moss brown, sky gray, lavender purple, mesa orange, and cloudy-day gray. Use them for accents and pops of color for throws, pillows, and rugs.
• Add Texture Woven baskets, rugs, poufs, floor cushions, and screens made of jute or woven fibrous materials add depth and texture to your home. Baskets can also help you get organized when used to hold books, magazines, blankets, and throws. Bring in strong and sturdy elements such as a rattan chair or stone bench.
• Natural Scents Add an extra-sensory dimension with natural aromatherapy scents in an essential-oil based reed diffuser—sandalwood, pine, cedar—or a flower-scented candle in the living room or bathroom.
• Soft Materials Look for natural fibers—linen, organic cotton, Tencel—to adorn your bed, chairs, sofa, throw pillows, or cushions. Sheets or blankets made of soft natural materials without synthetic fibers or chemical additives can provide a better night’s sleep.
• Let the Sun Shine In The sun can brighten up any space, though of course it can also fade the furniture. If you have a bright, sunny spot, add a plant or two, along with a comfortable chair—in a neutral shade. Voilà, a sunny and cozy reading nook!
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