Decorating
Hi Ho Timber! Growing Trend Brings Trees Inside
If you're city bound but would rather not be, here's how to focus on decorative timber elements that bring nature indoors
Not all of us can enjoy the rejuvenating effects of immersing ourselves in nature every day, but if you’re a fan of natural over man-made, a compromise may be in order. These decorating ideas will bring you a little closer to nature in your everyday, and serve as a reminder to stop, breathe, and live in the now.
Natural forms. Timber dominates this kitchen/dining area, but nothing says yes to nature like rustic bench seats that have been allowed to stay true to their natural tree-trunk shapes. Architect Hsu McCullough left these pine logs in the shade to dry for a year before adding castors to them and lightly planing the tops to make for more comfortable seats. And what a way to light up the dining area from above!
A timber slab can contrast brilliantly with a contemporary kitchen. This one steals the show.
If a slab table or bench is taking things too far for your taste, a simple wooden table paired with more modern furnishings and surrounds can have a similar effect.
Rain-forest. If you love an outdoor shower surrounded by trees but can’t quite manage it at your place, a tree in your shower could be the next best thing. A view over the treetops to the ocean also helps!
See more of this Zen bathroom
See more of this Zen bathroom
Tree of life. A tranquil home office inspired by the colours and forms of nature could be just what you need to focus and feel at home.
If you’d rather the real thing, bring a towering living pot plant into your home and crowd your outlook with leafy greens and pops of floral colour.
Timber tops. The soothing tones of nature have found their way into this contemporary home, too, with tree stumps serving a practical as well as aesthetic purpose.
Just one of these coffee tables would make a statement, but when gathered in a group, they are all the more eye-catching. The sky-high clerestory windows offer glimpses of the trees that bring nature inside further.
Chopsticks. An oversize pendant light made of sticks punctuates this room to great effect. The high ceiling prevents the work of art from dominating the space, but nature is definitely allowed to make its mark indoors.
The tree-inspired coffee table central to this glamorous living area serves to balance all that colour and drama, just as nature intended – I’m sure you’ve noticed the sense of calm that takes over when you step into the great outdoors.
YOUR SAY
How have you injected natural elements into your home decor? Share an idea or photo in the comments section.
MORE ON USING NATURE
Natural Elements: Designs That Embrace Nature’s Bounty
Natural Selection: 14 Tranquil Bathrooms Inspired by Mother Nature
Warm Up Your House With Materials Provided by Mother Nature
Eco-Friendly Kids: Inspire Your Children With the Wonders of Nature
YOUR SAY
How have you injected natural elements into your home decor? Share an idea or photo in the comments section.
MORE ON USING NATURE
Natural Elements: Designs That Embrace Nature’s Bounty
Natural Selection: 14 Tranquil Bathrooms Inspired by Mother Nature
Warm Up Your House With Materials Provided by Mother Nature
Eco-Friendly Kids: Inspire Your Children With the Wonders of Nature