Create a home inspired by the natural world
We can all recognise the benefits that spending time outdoors in nature can have on us.
The soothing sights of lush greenery as we cycle down secluded country lanes, the scent of wild garlic as we stroll on a woodland walk, and the serene blues of the ocean as we dip our feet in from the shore.
These are all moments that bring a sense of calm and perspective to our lives, and therefore many of us strive to fill our homes with as many elements of nature as we can. This article aims to help you bridge that gap between out and in using well-thought-out interior design.
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Embrace nature-inspired paint colours
Any outdoorsy interior scheme uses colours that are inspired by nature and the outside world. Firstly, consider the mood you want to create – matt grassy green paints and sea blues will make a space feel fresh and airy, while taupe, rusts and browns will help to create a wholesome earthiness in those spaces where comfort is paramount.
You can add further character and depth with deeper earthy colours. Forest greens, burnt oranges and spice reds are all perfect for creating an atmospheric vibe that ties in well with the changing seasons.
Add contrast and texture
Nature offers us a variety of contrasting textures, and this is what makes the natural world so fascinating. You too can incorporate some of that interest in your home with the use of materials and fabrics that might usually be found outdoors.
Concrete, stone, and exposed brick are all materials that could be introduced into your inside space in some way to create a contrast of textures against all the smoother fabrics that are usually expected inside a home. Leaving beams exposed and wooden floors un-stained and raw will also help to create that sense of being outside.
Furthermore, punctuate your existing décor with furniture and accessories using bamboo, wicker, and ceramics to get the full ambiance.
Go wild with wood
Wood is one of the world’s most natural materials to use in your home, as well as being the most durable and warmest too. It comes in a variety of species, finishes and applications, meaning that there is bound to be a wooden version to suit your taste whether it be contemporary or classic.
From flooring to ceiling beams and furniture, wood can be reclaimed and refinished from older buildings to keep its life ongoing for years in your home, creating a sustainable option that ticks all the boxes when it comes to connecting your home with rustic nature.
Fill your home with foliage
A home filled with plants is one that is happy, welcoming, and thriving. Not only are house plants proven to improve your mood and productivity, but they will also complement any colour scheme and interior trend to a tee.
Play around with a mixture of plant sizes and heights to create luscious focal areas and also think about placing them in areas where they can blend with the outside world to further harness that connection. You could even start an indoor kitchen garden, growing herbs and salad from your window ledges or bright bay windows.
Choose organic and earthy accessories
Once you have set the scene of your earthy home interior with outside-inspired colours and raw, natural materials, what’s left is to accessorise with all the right details. Soothe your senses with touchable textures, organic materials, and further earthy colours to complement the theme.
Cotton, linen, undyed wool, and seagrass are all natural fabrics that are worth investing in for their wholesome charm, durability, and sustainable credentials. Opt for these fabrics when choosing blankets, throws, cushions, and upholstery.
Consider the environmental element of the materials you choose for lamps, candles, trays and artworks - opt for recycled glass, organic fabric, vegetable leather and reclaimed wood. Also, intersperse new finds with artisanal or vintage pieces as no two items found in nature are rarely the same, so you can replicate this with unique pieces in your home.
When you are ready to start creating your nature-inspired décor scheme, browse our expert-curated Dead-Flat Matt colour palette to find your perfect earthy shades. Our Life-Kind paint formula is ultra-low VOC and hypoallergenic, giving you complete peace-of-mind when it comes to creating a healthy home that is also kind to the environment.
