Styling with Natural Elements | Bringing the Outdoors In
Nature has an inherent ability to soothe and ground us, and as an interior designer, I am always styling with natural elements and bringing the outdoors inside homes, both mine and my clients’. In fact, it is unlikely you’ll find a space in my home where there aren’t stems, flowers, or some sort of outdoor element. Many of my childhood memories include spending time outdoors, picking flowers, and playing in nature, all of which have deeply influenced my creative journey as an interior designer. I've come to realize that my love for the outdoors has shaped my passion for creating earthy and organic interiors. By incorporating elements from the natural world, we can recreate the calm and grounded feeling we experience when surrounded by nature.
Bringing outdoor elements into interior decor adds a sense of calm and tranquility, while also infusing our living spaces with warmth and beauty. Elements of nature also balance the often sterile feel we sometimes get from our interiors' hard materials and surfaces. Placing a vase of green leaves or a wooden bowl filled with fruit on your white countertops provides a softer vibe that is inviting and warm. There are various other ways you can bring nature into your home, from fresh cut flowers and organic decor to selecting natural components during the design phase.
Fresh Cut Flowers and Trimmings
Bringing the outdoors in can be as simple as picking fresh cut flowers or trimming some branches from your yard. I do this on a weekly basis! A weekly walk along the beach might yield some beautiful wood pieces to display in a vase or bowl. Incorporate these natural treasures into your living spaces to add a touch of organic beauty and reconnect with the serenity of nature.
Furniture and Decor from Natural Materials
Introducing furniture and decor made from natural materials creates a seamless connection between your interiors and the outdoors. I often use furniture and decor from natural elements such as wood, wicker, seagrass, shells, and glass. Consider seagrass pendants, a wicker entry bench, a driftwood piece on your desk, or a stool or mantel crafted from reclaimed wood.
Instead of furniture pieces, you could also use natural decor items to enhance your indoor space. Wicker baskets filled with pillows and blankets bring a cozy feel to your living areas. Wood or basket pots add warmth and natural elegance to your home. Display fruit in wood bowls or wooden beads in a clay dish for an organic touch. Lavender accents infuse a delightful aroma and promote relaxation. Utilize wall decor made from the earth, such as driftwood or reclaimed wood art, to further embrace the outdoors. There are countless ways to bring the outdoors in, and using earthy materials enhances the visual appeal of your space but also evokes a sense of harmony with nature.
Natural Components During Remodel
You can also go a step further by including natural components during the design phase of your home remodel. Choose wood cabinetry, concrete bricks, wicker pendants, or natural wood floors to transform the vibe and feel of your home. Incorporate wooden doors or mirrors for an elegant and rustic touch that complements the natural elements. Being intentional during the design phase will curate a home that is always warm and inviting, creating a sense of calm from the moment you step inside.
Styling with natural elements is a wonderful way to bridge the gap between our indoor spaces and the great outdoors. Embrace the calming and grounding effects of these elements and create a space that not only looks beautiful but also feels like a peaceful oasis. By blending the indoors with the outdoors, you can elevate your the design of your home and experience the joy of nature every day.