Nature can lift our spirits, and spending time outside is undeniably good for our wellbeing. But why does all that have to end when we come inside?
It doesn’t, insists stylist and interiors expert Victoria Harrison, who says it’s easy to draw design inspiration from the natural world, through what’s known as ‘biophilic design’ – weaving nature into the home environment by increasing natural light, maximising outside views, and using natural colours, textures and patterns in interior spaces.
Harrison shares six quick ideas to help create a wilder home…
Use a natural colour palette
The natural world has the best colour combinations and, using nature-inspired colours can help you feel the benefits of a wild landscape, even when you’re indoors. Choose colours that reflect the landscape directly outside your window for the biggest impact.
In a coastal area, this might mean cool greys, whites, silvers and blues. While in a woodland or inland area, you could use warm neutrals, deep greens and soft creams, to reflect the colours outside.
Make a natural room fragrance
Scent is an often-overlooked element of home decor, but home fragrance can have a big effect on the way your home makes you feel.
To do this, simply chop some seasonal fruits, herbs and spices, add them to a pan of water and gently bring it to the boil. Keep it simmering to release the fragrance.
Green up your view
Studies have shown that even a view of nature can have a powerful effect on how we’re feeling. Consider the windows in your home as picture frames, and think about what they’re framing as you walk around the room.
If your windows overlook a garden, bring plant pots and greenery right up to the outside of the window where possible and try to consider your garden as an extension of your home, rather than two separate spaces.
Reflect the sun
Drawing more natural light into your home is another way to bring the outside in.
Positioning furniture close to windows and keeping windowsills clear can maximise any available light source. You can also reflect light by using light paint colours near windows and light sources.
Celebrate wild shapes
There are no straight lines in nature; from the arc of a tree branch to the meandering course of a river, nature has a way of softening and curving any hard edges.
Bringing these organic curves and soft shapes into your home is a quick and easy way to forge a link to the outside.
Choose natural materials
Reducing the use of plastics and man-made materials in your home, and using natural fibres and materials instead, can help to rewild your indoor space and create a healthy home environment.
Rewild Your Home by Victoria Harrison is published by Quadrille, priced £18. Available now.
Conversation