Including Mother Nature or Natural Elements Into Our Homes
As a New York interior designer, I often talk about how much I love bringing nature into our homes, especially in urban settings like a Brooklyn loft apartment or a Manhattan loft. While the idea of adding greenery and natural elements to our living spaces has become popular, thanks to its supposed benefits, it’s worth taking a closer look. Creating a peaceful retreat in the middle of a bustling city like New York sounds incredible, but some are skeptical about whether a few plants can genuinely transform their environment.
Don’t get me wrong—I’m all for adding greenery and earthy vibes to your home, especially in NYC apartments (studios, loft apartments, or brownstones!), but it’s important to approach this trend thoughtfully. Sure, everyone’s excited about how it’s supposed to make your home healthier and happier (myself included), but I’ve encountered a few clients who are hesitant to dive into the ferns-and-stones aesthetic wholeheartedly.
Imagine living amidst towering skyscrapers and the nonstop energy of the city, and then being encouraged to bring the outdoors inside your small loft apartment in Queens or a Brownstone in Brooklyn. It sounds lovely—having a mini oasis amidst the urban chaos—but let’s be realistic: placing a few succulents on your windowsill may not instantly transport you to a serene forest. And that’s okay; I understand why some are skeptical. Incorporating nature into your home design is much more than just adding a few plants here and there.
Natural elements to include in your home
Beyond simply bringing in lush green plants to brighten up your living room, consider elements like a cozy reclaimed wooden coffee table that adds warmth to your NYC loft or a stone accent wall that can bring a touch of rustic charm to your bedroom. And let’s not forget the importance of maximizing natural light—keep those windows clear to let sunlight flood in, connecting your loft space with the outdoors even when you’re inside.
Integrating natural materials like bamboo or reclaimed wood is not only a great way to add texture and color but also represents a sustainable choice that aligns with the eco-friendly values many of my clients appreciate. For those looking to make a bold statement, adding water features could be the perfect touch—a small indoor fountain can bring the calming sounds of nature right into your Manhattan loft apartment, creating an environment that feels like a true escape from city life.
It’s clear there’s real merit in exploring the benefits of integrating natural elements into our living spaces. (Did you know that it also may be seriously good for our health? Check out this Washington Post article about Bringing Nature Inside.) Beyond their visual appeal and eco-friendly advantages, incorporating greenery and textures can add depth and character to NYC lofts, brownstones, and even small condo lofts. However, it’s important to approach this thoughtfully, avoiding the temptation to follow the latest trend without considering its long-term impact on your space.
Water: Other Natural Elements in Your Indoor Space
What about those looking to expand beyond greenery, the element of water can be transformative. You could even consider incorporating an indoor water feature, like a sleek waterfall wall or a tabletop fountain into your space. I know if the space is on the larger side this may seem more practical. But it’s not necessarily the case that bigger is better here. You can do things with water on the smaller side as well. This will not only add a visual focal point but also infuses your home with the calming, meditative sounds of flowing water.
So, this design choice can also help create a tranquil atmosphere in the middle of a busy city, turning a Manhattan or Brooklyn apartment into a more peaceful retreat. Whether it’s the soothing presence of water or the freshness of lush plants you can make these spaces more of a refuge.
Of course, I’m not saying let’s turn our living rooms into indoor jungles just because some Instagram influencer said it’s the next big thing and put some real thought into the overall design. But, I do love creating spaces that not only look beautiful but also contribute to the overall well-being of my clients. And I seriously think that in a home (particularly urban environments such as New York, London, Paris, etc.) using natural elements makes a difference. I hope you consider this. It’s an important part of interior design in that it keeps us connected to the Earth. Remember, it’s about finding that delicate balance between style and substance, ensuring that your NYC loft apartment or Brownstone design choices resonate with your individual preferences and lifestyle.