From a design perspective, 2012 has been a big year for natural-inspired interiors. I must admit that chatting about natural designs brings horrible flashbacks to “lodge” décor, where nature inspired rooms included black bears or references to the “ole hunting camp”. Eesh! Thankfully we have evolved into a less themed, simply elegant use of nature in design. Here are a few of my favorite ways to bring nature inside….even if your forecast calls for snow in the not-too-distant future!
Natural Materials
Loving the beauty of natural materials like jute, sisal, rattan, wicker, cork, bamboo, reclaimed wood, burlap, canvas, cotton…..just to name a few! Using any combo of these materials will create a comfortable environment that is organic, fresh and natural.
Natural Colors
Look out your own window for inspiring natural colors. The green grass (that would actually be brown grass if you live near me!!), the blue sky, the yellow sun…..any of these colors offer a starting point for your nature inspired design.
|
|
|
|
Natural Elements
Edibles
Oranges, limes, lemons, apples, pumpkins – Whether real or faux, these colorful items make superb décor.
Dried beans & peas, coffee beans, sugar in the raw – Simplistic beauty! Try spraying adhesive to the bottom half of chunky candles and rolling the candles in any of the above for a unique design.
Non-Edibles
Branches – Bare or adorned, branches are versatile enough to be used for elegant table centerpieces or crafty-style mantel displays.
Leaves or Pinecones – Mix into a mantle berry garland or a coffee table display of fall pumpkins for simple, easy and beautiful decor.
Rocks – Rocks used in hurricane vases or trays gives an unexpected twist to decor. And lucky us, rocks work with any style, from über modern to country cottage
Shells – One of my faves, shells are stunning displayed in tall apothecary vases, as coffee table décor or placed simply on bookcase shelves.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Natural Walls & Floors
Wallpaper – Look for basic, simple designs using nubby cloths, grass textures and raw silks. Perfect spot for a touch of wallpaper?
- the wall behind your headboard
- the back of a bookcase
- the wall behind a fireplace
|
|
|
|
Photography – Nature-inspired photos are easy to work into your home and give extra impact when grouped together. I use fabulous photography done by my father…..try using some of your own photos for a very personal touch.
|
|
|
Flooring – Soft colors and patterns on the floor create a peaceful environment. Looks for patterns that mimic nature…..waves, leaves or lattices work well in either area rugs or wall-to-wall carpeting.
To merge a major design trend with an outdoorsy instinct on décor is, naturally, a beautiful thing!
Written by:
Cecilia Staniec
InteriorDesigner & Stager, adarlingroom.com
