How to Bring the Outdoors Inside: Nature-Inspired Decor for Summer – News18

As the summer arrives, there’s a palpable longing to bring the essence of the outdoors into our living spaces. Nature-inspired decor offers not just a design choice, but an invitation to embrace tranquility and sophistication within our homes. In this season of vibrant growth and renewal, infusing our interiors with elements reminiscent of the natural world becomes a profound reflection of our desire to connect with the beauty and serenity of summer, rather than a stylistic decision. In this article, expert architects and designers share creative strategies to elevate our living spaces with timeless elegance and refinement, drawing inspiration from the boundless wonders of nature.

1. Embrace Timeless Natural ElementsIncorporating natural elements into your decor adds depth and character to your space while evoking a sense of timelessness. Start by selecting furniture crafted from solid wood with rich grain patterns or opt for stone accents like marble and granite for a touch of elegance. Ar. Bhuvan Kapila, Founder and Principal Architect, Workshop for Metropolitan Architecture(WMA) suggests, “Choose pieces with clean lines and classic silhouettes that will stand the test of time and seamlessly blend with various decor styles. Introduce rattan or bamboo accessories such as baskets, trays, or lamps to infuse warmth and texture into your design scheme. These materials not only reflect the beauty of the outdoors but also lend a sense of refinement to your interior.”
2. Curate a Green OasisWhile plants remain a perennial favourite for bringing the outdoors inside, the key lies in curating a thoughtful green oasis rather than simply scattering houseplants around the room. Start by selecting a variety of plants in different shapes, sizes, and textures to create visual interest and depth. Ar. Pallavi Pashine, Founder and Principal Architect, Salankar Pashine & Associates remarks, “Consider incorporating trailing vines, lush palms, or sculptural succulents to add dimension to your indoor garden.” She says, “For a truly immersive experience, create a living wall or vertical garden. This adds visual interest while purifying the air, enhancing the connection to the outdoors.” One can also introduce botanical artwork or photography to complement your plants and add a touch of sophistication to your decor scheme.
3. Illuminate with Natural LightHarnessing natural light is essential for creating a bright and airy atmosphere reminiscent of the outdoors. Ar. Kapila, explains, “Maximise the flow of natural light by strategically placing mirrors to reflect sunlight throughout your space. Opt for sheer curtains or blinds that allow ample light to filter through while maintaining privacy. Consider installing skylights or large windows to invite the beauty of the outdoors into your home and create a seamless connection with nature.”“In the evening, embrace soft, ambient lighting with dimmable fixtures or candles to create a cosy and intimate atmosphere that mimics the warmth of summer evenings spent outdoors”, she adds.
4. Harmonise with Earthy Colour PalettesWhen selecting colour palettes for your decor, draw inspiration from the natural world to create a harmonious and sophisticated ambience. Ar. Anurag Pashine, Founder and Principal Architect of Salankar Pashine & Associates asserts, “Earthy tones such as warm neutrals, soft greens, and muted blues evoke a sense of serenity and connection with nature. Incorporate these hues into your walls, upholstery, and accessories to create a cohesive and inviting space that reflects the beauty of the outdoors. Add depth and contrast with accents of rich terracotta, deep navy, or burnt orange for a refined look that complements your nature-inspired decor.” By harmonising your colour palette with the natural elements, you can create a timeless and elegant interior that celebrates the essence of summer.

By incorporating these elements, you can craft a haven that seamlessly blends the tranquility of the outdoors with the comfort of your indoor space. Let your summer home be a refuge that celebrates the season’s vibrancy, light, and life, allowing you to connect with nature’s essence all year round.