Incorporating natural elements throughout your home can help you feel connected to the outdoors, which is especially important during the warmer summer months. These elements, such as wood, stone, textiles and plants, appeal to the senses and can help create a calm and grounded atmosphere. When the weather turns warmer, and you want to feel more connected to the outdoors, consider bringing these natural elements into your home.
Mimic an outdoor color scheme
Carrying the colors found in nature throughout your home can be calming. Shades of blues, greens, whites and tans can be a grounding palette that anchors the space and can enable you to easily layer accent colors, such as complementary shades of pink, purple, red, yellow and orange.
Incorporate foliage
Whether it is potted plants, flowering branches, seasonal flowers, or organic greenery, incorporating foliage throughout your home is an easy way to add color and texture and can help bring life into a space.
Wood furniture
Selecting solid wood furniture is an investment that will pay off. Solid wood furniture is heirloom quality and makes a home feel grounded, solid and elevated. It will last for decades and even centuries to come.
Natural stone accents
Natural stone elements, from countertops to decorative bowls, are another natural material worth the investment. Marble and granite surfaces can transform a kitchen or bathroom. Marble-topped accent tables, fireplace surrounds, or decorative boxes or bowls are another way to incorporate this natural material throughout your home.
Scents
Incorporating scents found in nature, such as seasonal fragrant flowers or woodsy aromas throughout your home in the form of candles, essential oils, or cleaning supplies, can make you feel like you’re outdoors. Scents are a powerful sensory experience, so being intentional with the scents you bring into your home can significantly impact your overall mood.
Textiles
The textiles in your home also significantly impact how you feel at home. Swapping out man-made textiles in favor of natural textiles, such as wool, linen, or cotton, can feel better to the touch, are long-lasting and can offer health benefits.
Wool rugs, carpets and stair runners are timeless. They are typically made without chemicals and resist common household allergens. Wool is also soft to the touch, dirt-repellent resists fading and is known for being solid and durable. Linen and cotton bedding create a soft, comfortable, breathable spot to lay back, relax and recharge. Linen is also long-lasting and durable, getting softer with every wash. Its breathable properties help facilitate a cool, restful night’s sleep.
Natural fibers
Natural fibers add softness, approachability and laid-back elegance to a space. Grasscloth wallpaper or furniture can instantly add depth, dimension and casual luxury to a space. It comes in various colors and works equally well in contemporary and modern spaces. Additionally, natural fiber rugs like sisal and jute are excellent options to anchor a dining table, as an entryway rug, a stair or hallway runner, or a living room rug.
