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The Latest Decorating Trend: Nature
by Linda Cooper
A Nature-inspired environment is the latest decorating trend. Words like haven and sanctuary are common today and reflect our need for calm, serenity and security in our lives. We want our homes to be that peaceful oasis in the storm.
A "Nature-inspired environment" is the latest decorating trend. Words like " haven" and "sanctuary" are common today and reflect our need for calm, serenity and security in our lives. We want our homes to be that peaceful oasis in the storm. In these chaotic times, we are turning to our homes to offer us the safety and comfort that the outside world cannot provide. We are "nesting", staying at home and inviting friends in, instead of going out. It is a time of rediscovery of home, family and friends and a perfect time to make your home more comfortable and inspiring.
Spending time in nature nourishes and renews us. By bringing the outside in, we are reminded of the beauty and peacefulness that a connection with nature provides. Using natural materials and objects that remind us of time spent out of doors creates that experience again without having to be there.
Read this word picture and note your response.
Environment:The River
Canoeing the New River, Alleghany County, NC
The sunlight pouring through the trees in shafts of golden light creates doily patterns on the surface of the gently flowing water. The cool breeze off the water caresses your face and is cool against your skin. The canoe is being carried along without effort by the tame current of this ancient river. The passing scenery is of hardwoods, evergreens, rocks and boulders and majestic cliffs reaching toward the sky. The river bends and turns through deep woods bordered by dense foliage and the occasional resting rock that beckons the view to stop and sun on its flat surface.
The water depth varies from pebble fields, where the water is shallow, to deep and dark pools of mysterious water. The New turns and bends offering endless visual variety. The trees seem to bow to you as you pass and the tall grasses to curtsy. You are being carried along with ease. The water passes gently underneath the boat, sliding, gliding effortlessly forward. You feel the boat pass over a submerged rock as the bottom skims over the smooth well-worn surface. The general mood floating down the river is one of peace, tranquility and ease.
Can an environment be created in our homes that would give the same feeling of this natural setting.
Color certainly conjures up feelings and evokes emotion. The coloring of "The River" would be shades of green, the green of trees and plants and blues, from the teal blue of the water to sky blue. This would be just one of the elements involved in making this setting come alive in your home. For example, a piece of twig furniture would be reminiscent of the river setting and provide a touch of nature to your interior. Accessories, such as a basket or a pitcher of wildflowers, would also add to "The River" look and feel.
Nature is the best designer and we can learn a lot from observing her color combinations, use of texture, shapes and patterns. By creating environments that honor her beauty, we bring beauty into our lives on a daily basis. By using elements derived from nature we can truly make our homes our refuge.
About the Author
Linda Cooper is an interior designer with two decorating websites, www.thatsmyroom.com, Children's Environments, and www.windsorcottagedesign.com, which offers low cost, online decorating guidance and style guides for do-it-yourselfers.
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