Including Mother Nature Into Our Homes

 

Living room with natural light and green palm plants and a green couch

I often talk about how much I love bringing nature into our homes, but I understand that it might not be everyone’s cup of tea. Even though the idea of adding greenery and natural elements to our living spaces has become trendy for its supposed benefits, it’s important to take a closer look. While creating a peaceful retreat in the middle of a bustling city sounds amazing, there are skeptics who question whether a few plants can really make a significant difference in transforming our environment.

Like I was saying and don’t get me wrong, I’m all for a bit of greenery and earthy vibes in the home, but let’s not get too carried away just yet. Sure, everyone’s raving about how it’s supposed to make your home healthier and happier (myself included), but I gotta admit, there are a few of my clients who have some reservations about diving headfirst into the whole ferns-and-stones aesthetic.

From their perspective imagine being surrounded by towering skyscrapers and the hustle of city life, and then being encouraged to infuse your living room with elements of the great outdoors. Someone suggests, “Hey, why not bring a little piece of the great outdoors into your living room?” Sounds nice in theory, and I mean, who wouldn’t want a mini oasis in the midst of all this chaos? But here’s the thing – these people are not convinced that scattering a few succulents around is going to magically transport them to a serene forest glade. And to be fair, I see their point, and if this was what I heard about adding a touch of green to my place, you can color me skeptically. Luckily, adding Mother Nature into our homes is so much more than throwing a few plants together.

Other than bringing in lush green plants to brighten up your living room, a cozy wooden coffee table adds warmth to your space, or even a stone accent wall can bring a touch of rustic charm to your bedroom. And don’t forget about maximizing natural light! Keep those windows clear to let the sunlight flood in, connecting you with the outdoors even when you’re inside. We can also integrate natural elements into your space, which not only adds a pop of color and texture but also represents a sustainable choice that benefits the planet.

Consider opting for eco-friendly materials like bamboo or reclaimed wood, or incorporate vintage pieces for a touch of old-world charm. This may not be for everyone, but the potential of water features could also be the design element you need! Picture the soothing sound of a small indoor fountain, evoking the tranquility of a forest stream right in your living room. That said, there’s clearly merit in exploring the potential benefits of integrating natural elements into our homes. Beyond the visual appeal and eco-friendly aspects, incorporating greenery and natural textures can add depth and character to our living spaces. However, it’s essential to approach this trend thoughtfully, avoiding the temptation to simply follow the latest fad without considering its long-term implications.

Basically what I’m saying is let’s not turn our living rooms into veritable indoor jungles just because some Instagram influencer said it’s the next big thing and put some real thought into the overall design. I love creating spaces that not only look beautiful but also contribute to the overall well-being of my clients. It’s about finding that delicate balance between style and substance, ensuring that our design choices resonate with your individual preferences and lifestyle.

 

About Jarret Yoshida

Jarret Yoshida has worked in the New York interior design world for more than two decades. With a varied portfolio of projects including residential and commercial spaces, he draws inspiration from his Asian interior designer heritage to create stylish, welcoming, and sophisticated design solutions.

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