How to bring the outside in: Clever home styling ideas inspired by nature
7 stylish ideas for bringing the outside in
Delving into another predicted home interior trend for 2025, this week’s post is all about bringing the outside in.
Biophilic design has been listed as a popular interior trends for the last few years and there’s no sign of it slowing down anytime soon.
Of course, not all of us are working with fabulous spaces like the one above, designed by Brigette Romanek. However, the good news is that there are lots of achievable ways to bring the outside in and make the most of the space you do have.
Maximise natural light and views
If you’re fortunate enough to have large floor-to-ceiling windows or glazed doors that overlook your outside space, you’re already winning when it comes to bringing the outside in.
However, more often than not, that’s not the case; so what can you do?
If your budget allows, consider upgrading to bi-fold or sliding doors.
When we swapped out our old patio doors between the lounge and conservatory, it completely transformed the space. The room feels brighter, more open, and far more connected to the garden.
I thought I’d share this video of our conservatory, which shows how we’ve maximised natural light not just through layout, but also with our choice of window coverings.
We chose bamboo-style roller blinds from Hillarys. Sadly they don’t seem to stock them anymore; I’ve had so many messages asking where they’re from, especially after sharing a clip on TikTok!
What I love about these blinds is that they’re not only super stylish and in keeping with my Mediterranean-inspired vibe, they also offer an element of privacy without blocking the natural light.
We rarely have them pulled down, and during the cooler months, before the sun has fully warmed up, we still get to enjoy the views of the garden, making it the perfect space to relax in.
Regardless of your window size, it’s worth rethinking your window treatments, especially in rooms that lead out to the garden.
Do you actually need a covering at all? Or could sheer curtains provide the privacy you want, while still letting the outside in?
If upgrading your windows or coverings isn’t an option, mirrors are a great (cost- effective) choice. A well-placed mirror can bounce light around the room and reflect outdoor views, giving the illusion of more space and blurring the line between the indoors and out.
Opt for natural materials and textures
Nothing connects your home interiors to nature more effectively than wood.
Incorporating wood into your home not only adds warmth, visual interest and texture; it also creates a calming connection to the natural world, enhancing the overall sense of tranquility and wellbeing in your home.
I actually wrote a post last year which you may find an interesting read:
We’ve added two wooden panelled feature walls in our home; one in the lounge and the most recent in the bedroom, and I absolutely love how they’ve completely transformed both spaces.
Natural stone is also another brilliant material to bring into your interiors, especially when used for floor or wall tiles. If you live in a warmer climate, the feel of cool stone beneath your feet is beautifully calming (although perhaps not quite as soothing in the middle of a British winter!).
Whether you opt for wooden accents, stone finishes, or even rattan or jute textures, layering in natural materials is one of the most effective ways to bring the outside in; both visually and emotionally.
Choose a nature-inspired colour palette
My favourite kind of colour palette! Whether you’re drawn to rich, earthy browns, delicate stone tones, or have a soft spot for calming greens, nature-inspired colours have an incredible way of bringing warmth and balance into a space.
If you’ve been reading my posts for a while, you’ll know I share a monthly colour montage; and one of my favourites featured Farrow & Ball’s most recent colour collection.
It’s a beautiful selection of earthy hues that work brilliantly for creating warmth and a sense of natural flow throughout your home; perfect for connecting your interior with the outdoors.
To discover more click here.
Style your home with plants
It might seem like the obvious choice, but houseplants are one of the easiest and most effective ways to bring natural greenery into your home. Whether your a first-time plant parent or already have an oasis of plants in your home, styling with plants instantly adds texture and warmth to a space.
Not only do plants look great, but they can also help purify the air and provide a gentle boost to your mood, making them ideal for wellbeing as well as design. From statement floor plants like the Kentia Palm or Peace Lily to leafy favourites like Calatheas, there’s a plant to suit every room in your home.
Accessorise with outdoor-inspired accessories
When it comes to bringing the outside in, don’t overlook the power of accessories.
Think botanical-inspired artwork, earthy stoneware vases, and of course nature-themed cushions!
Looking for something more personal? Why not create your own piece of art?
Try hand-pressing leaves or flowers to make a one-of-a-kind gallery wall, or, if you’re feeling creative, have a go at crafting a dried flower wall hanging.
These small details can make a big impact, adding a beautiful, organic and personal touch to your interiors.
Incorporate natural fragrances (and sounds)
Who doesn’t love fresh flowers?
Treating yourself to a bunch a couple of times a month is not only a cost-effective way to add colour to your home, the natural scent is simply beautiful. Flowers bring a fresh, uplifting aroma that instantly enhances your space.
Of course, there’s no shortage of scented candles and diffusers out there either, so it’s easier than ever to find a fragrance that suits your style and mood, whether it’s earthy, floral, citrusy or woody.
And it’s not just about scent; sound can have a big impact too.
The tweeting of birds on a sunny Sunday morning or the gentle rustle of leaves in a breeze. Consider hanging a wind chime near a window or door, or even playing a nature-inspired soundscape in the background to create a calm, grounding atmosphere indoors.
Create an indoor garden space
Bringing together elements of everything we’ve explored, why not create your own indoor garden space?
It could be as simple as transforming a quiet corner into your own sanctuary surrounded by plants, layered with cushions and throws in natural textures, and accompanied by the calming sounds of nature.
Or take it a step further and turn your bedroom into a full biophilic retreat.
If you missed it, I shared some of my favourite bedding finds in a post earlier this month, and there are so many beautiful designs inspired by nature, perfect for creating that relaxed, outdoors-in feel.
Share your appreciation for as little as £3.50 a month or subscribe to an annual membership for just £35 for the year.
Will you be adding a touch of the outdoors into your home?
I’d love to hear your thoughts; maybe one of these ideas has resonated with you. Let me know in the comments!
By the way, I’ve actually been in Porto, Portugal this week, working on an exciting new project (linked to the day job). I’ve taken a few photos during my travels and thought I might share a little photo dump.
Let me know if you’d like me to share them in next week’s post!
Until then have a wonderful weekend.
Thanks
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Plenty of great ideas here for bringing the outside in Sonya 👍 Hope you enjoyed Porto, look forward to seeing some photos 📷