Decorating With Nature - Form & Function

Decorating with nature or natural elements in our homes seems more important than ever, given the rise of technology in our lives.

Fair warning: this blog is picture heavy with so many beautiful examples of decorating with nature. These photos, culled from client work, the store and other sources, illustrate some simple ways to add a little nature to your home and create a visual break from the technology that bombards us all. Now, more than ever, we need nature in our lives and, especially when stuck inside, we need visual cues to sustain us and remind us to sustain nature.

Shells, Coral and Other Natural Miscellany

I love a shell and I adore anything coral. Probably my crabby cancer sign which harkens back to the sea. Seaside or outdoor decor is not exclusively for the nature lover but can make an appearance in any home. A large conch can rest atop a pile of books or sea fans provide an ethereal backdrop for just about anything. Stones and wood accessories add an organic nod to nature. Or it can be something as simple as a basket of shells. Read more ideas about decorating with shells here.

shells driftwood sea sponge — Driftwood, shells and other beachy elements make up this store vignette.

fan coral sea sponges bathtub vignette — Sea fan with sea sponges make a nature inspired grouping by my tub.

vanity dressing area vignette — And along with some cuties in a frame, my vanity area has seaside rocks I collected on a hiking trip with my sisters.

coral centerpiece — Coral centerpiece on shell mirror gives a strong natural focal point on this coffee table we displayed in one vignette. Rattan furniture adds another natural element.

coral plates real coral — We loved working with this client’s collection and especially loved this pairing we did wtih coral plates and real coral.

Black coral and shells in the brass bowl, along with a fabulous nude figure, makes for a great entrance.

air plants in abalone shells — Air plants in abalone shells, one of our favorite discoveries at the gift show last year.

How cool would this petrified wood bowl look with shells and other natural elements? Or alone it serves as a wonderful reminder of trees and nature.

peacock feathers — Peacock feathers are so boho and such a great reminder of one of nature’s most beautiful creatures. And they drop their feathers naturally so no harm done.

Living, Breathing Plant Life

Plants are back in a big, trendy way. The 70s boho vibe in decorating has helped “grow” this trend. I have always had some form of plant life in my home but prefer low maintenance plants that can subsist on little water and much neglect. (For more ideas on natural elements you can’t kill, read here.) The rise of succulents and cacti in decorating is also a win-win in my books.

african violets americana decor — This sweet client actually grows African Violets successfully. We highlighted them in a sunny window.

Plant in blue and white highlights one client’s porcelain collection and adds a little nature at the same time.

Flowers and Fruit

Flowers and fruit are generally fleeting, as opposed to longer lived plants. However, they do have their place in brightening the home. I love a fresh posy beside the bed or an orchid for entertaining or everyday. A bowl of fruit adds color to our kitchens and reminds us to eat healthy. If you have a rose garden or other cutting flowers, all the better to nab a weekly bouquet or two. Of course, I always have citrus fruits around for a cocktail spritz and a bowl of apples is nice for fall.

yellow flowers bananas yellow rug — We love how the bananas and mums repeat the rug color in this client’s home.

butcher block island vignette decor — Butcher block island complete with green apples, lemons and an orchid for another client’s special home.

Nature Inspired Wallpaper, Art and TextilesAlongside real natural elements, decorating with nature might include things that are inspired by nature. I have seen some killer wallpapers lately and some adorable textiles that evoke nature. Finally, from prints to butterflies under glass, there are a myriad of choices in nature inspired art.

Schumacher bird wallpaper large birdcage — My fav vignette in the store with Schumacher bird wallpaper in the background, concealing the bathroom door.

preserved butterflies in frames — Butterfly art in the natured inspired area of the store.

Barloga photographic prints — These nature photograph prints on handmade paper have caught the eye of many a customer.

For more decorating with nature inspiration read here. Grab your collection of nature inspired items from around the house and amass them together for impact. Cut some flowers. Collect rocks or shells on your next trip or sand in small glass jars from different beaches you visited. Surround yourself with beauty and meaningful reminders of nature and take a break from the constant pounding that is technology.

Decorating with nature or natural elements in our homes seems more important than ever, given the rise of technology in our lives.

Shells, Coral and Other Natural Miscellany

Living, Breathing Plant Life

Flowers and Fruit

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