Bringing the Outdoors In

How to Make Your Home a Natural Haven

If you've been anywhere near the internet (or a home décor store) lately, you've probably noticed that bringing the outdoors in is a major trend in interior design this year. 

It makes total sense. You already know that I think nature is pretty great. It smells nice, it looks good, and – if you ignore the whole ‘weeds taking over your garden’ thing – it’s actually pretty calming. So, why wouldn't we want to harness all that leafy goodness and bring it inside?

No need to panic and start installing a full-on jungle in your living room (unless you want to, in which case, go for it!) There are loads of ways to introduce natural elements into your home without it feeling like you’ve lost a fight with a tree.

Here are some of my suggestions on how to do it, without breaking the bank – or your brain.

Become a Plant Parent (Even If You Have a Black Thumb)

Plants are the most obvious way to bring the outdoors in, and they’re great for adding colour, texture, and a bit of ‘I have my life together’ energy to your space. If you’re a gardening pro, fill your home with leafy green beauties like monsteras, ferns and orchids. If you’re more of a ‘forgets to water things for weeks at a time then drowns them to try and compensate’ type (like me), go for snake plants, peace lilies, succulents, or even faux plants (no judgment – fake plants have come a long way).

Just remember, if you have pets, to check which plants are non-toxic before turning your home into a rainforest. I want them to enjoy the greenery, not nibble on it and regret their life choices...

Natural Materials = Instant Zen

Wherever you lie on the plant mania scale, incorporating furniture and décor made from natural materials is another easy win. Think wooden coffee tables, rattan chairs, linen cushions, and woven baskets. Not only do they look great, but they also add warmth and texture, making your home feel less ‘cookie-cutter’ and more ‘effortlessly stylish’ (and in this case the effortlessness is real 😁).

Triple win if you can find second-hand or sustainably sourced pieces – you'll be kind to the planet, saving money and also making your home look amazing. Woohoo!

Let There Be (Natural) Light

Sunlight is nature’s way of making everything look better. It boosts your mood, makes your home feel more open, and helps your plants thrive. Maximise natural light by keeping window areas clear, using sheer curtains, and strategically placing mirrors to bounce light around the room.

If your home is more ‘cosy cave’ than ‘light-filled oasis,’ don’t stress about it – warm-toned LED bulbs can mimic natural light, so you can still get that fresh, airy vibe even on those miserable grey days.

A Natural Colour Palette

Ever noticed how looking at natural tones instantly make you feel good?

Soft greens, warm beiges, rich browns, and gentle blues are all inspired by nature and can make your home feel like a tranquil retreat (even if your life is absolute chaos).

Or, if you prefer more vibrancy, choosing fresh flower colours can really lift your mood and give you that happy vibe in your home.

Decorate with Nature (Literally)

Sometimes the best décor isn’t found in a shop – it’s right outside your front door. Rocks, driftwood, dried flowers or grasses, pinecones… basically, if it looks nice (and won’t bring in unwanted insects) it’s fair game.

You could try a simple bowl of smooth stones on a coffee table or a vase filled with dried grasses or eucalyptus leaves. Or how about a carefully arranged branch that looks like something from an art gallery? Why not?

If foraging feels like too much effort (fair enough), many shops sell these kinds of things – because apparently we’ll happily pay for sticks if they’re arranged nicely 😄

Art Inspired by Nature (Because Walls Shouldn’t Be Boring)

Okay, I might be a tiny bit biased here, but adding artwork inspired by nature is one of my favourite ways to bring the outdoors in. Think abstract landscapes, floral prints or abstract paintings that make you feel like you’ve just stepped into a sunlit meadow.

When I create my art, I want it to look beautiful, remind you of the loveliness of nature and make you feel happy or calm whenever you see it.

Whether it’s a burst of ocean blues or a splash of earthy greens, nature-inspired artwork can add personality to your space without requiring any effort from you (other than hanging it up, which I suppose might still take a few weeks if you're anything like me...)

Scent Matters Too

If you really want to bring nature indoors, don’t just focus on what you see – think about what you smell. Scented candles, essential oil diffusers or even fresh flowers can make your home feel fresh and inviting. Scents like eucalyptus, lavender and cedarwood can transport you straight to a peaceful forest (even if you’re actually sitting in the middle of a laundry pile).

Fancy Trying This Trend?

At the end of the day, making your home feel more connected to nature isn’t just about following a trend – it’s about creating a space that feels good to be in. Whether you go all in with plants, natural textures, and earthy colours, or you just add a couple of subtle touches, bringing the outdoors in can make your home feel fresher, calmer, and even a little bit posher.. 🤩

So, if you’ve been looking for an excuse to buy just one more plant or finally put up that piece of nature-inspired art you’ve been eyeing, consider this your permission slip. Happy decorating...