INVITING NATURE INDOORS
I LOVE Autumn!!! Sorry to all you summer-lovers out there, but hands down, Autumn had me at the first leaf falling. I love the colors and crunching of dry leaves under foot, the clear blue skies and crisp, cool air, root vegetables, tuber-rich stews and soups and wardrobe layers. Plus, my birthday is in October. Enough said.
September seems like a fresh slate, whether or not you are in academia. I have a running playlist of songs like “Autumn in New York” by Ella Fitzgerald in my head and I look forward to the more internal moments to come. In Autumn, we come back inside and it’s when design really comes alive for me. Creating cozy spaces, whether you are entertaining or flying solo becomes more of a priority.
However, it is harder to stay connected to nature as things cool down outside. Nature connects us to ourselves, and has an impact on our mental and physical wellbeing, so it’s important to stay connected, especially indoors. We crave something that awakens and nourishes the dark recesses of our bodies when the warmth of the summer sun cannot. So as summer draws to a close, and cooler weather begins to beckon us inside here are some simple ways to invite nature indoors.
Nature-Inspired Wallpaper
Hand-drawn hydrangea wallpaper surrounds the head of the bed making this bedroom feel as though it is nestled in a garden.
Green and blue lotus flower wallpaper is calming and pretty in a dining room. Both colors are associated with wood element, which relates to digestion.
Floral vine wallpaper not only brings in nature, but also adds pizzazz into a powder room.
The monkeys and green tile make this powder room feel like a playful jungle.
Fresh Flowers & Greenery
While fresh flowers are lovely anywhere, they are a chi magnet. That means they attract energy, so place them in areas where you want to specifically draw attention.
As a dining centerpiece flowers and greenery from the garden feel fresh, yet casual. That little bit of color draws the eye.
Tiny daises add a burst of joy at the bedside.
Fresh lavender has a calming effect on the nervous system. And its scent is divine.
Patterns & Textural Finishes
Colorful embroidered birds draw your eye up to the windows, while a grouping of fresh flowers enlivens this garden level family room.
Floral and botanical patterns are an easy way to incorporate nature.
Colorful critters on bedding make for sweet dreams.
The color and layers on hand-painted walls mimic the ethereal quality of the sky.
Natural fiber wall coverings, like grasscloth, soften a space and help with acoustics.
Hand-carved wood finishes add dimensionality. Plus, handmade pieces directly connect us to nature.
As the weather begins to change and we are naturally drawn inside, here’s hoping you will find ways to connect to nature in your home. No matter where you are in your journey, I’m here to help you realize your design goals. Transforming your space to support the way you live promotes healthy and balanced living. Don’t forget to follow along on Instagram for more fun and behind-the-scenes peeks into current projects.