Comforting Nature, the hottest macro-trend in home decor
The hottest home decor macro-trend right now is the idea of "comforting nature".
The macro-trend we at Native Range call "comforting nature" has been gaining momentum in recent years, but it's roots are in a few design movements that have been growing in popularity over the last decade. Here's a breakdown:
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Shifting from Cool Minimalism: Around the mid-2010s, cool grays and stark minimalism started to feel a bit sterile and impersonal. People began craving warmer and more inviting spaces.
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Biophilic Design on the Rise: The concept of biophilic design, which emphasizes incorporating nature into built environments for well-being, has been gaining traction for the past decade or so.
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Increased Focus on Sustainability: As environmental concerns grow, there's a rising interest in using natural materials and sustainable practices in home decor.
Why is "comforting nature" so trendy? It's our search for tranqulity. We live in a fast paced world and spend so much time indoors. Earthy tones bring the tranquility of a beach, the peace of the forest, or warmth of a desert inside. Textured layers, like wool and wood, create a feeling akin to a cozy cabin. Biophilic (bringing nature inside) design lets nature itself step indoors, fostering the peace we find in forests and meadows. This trend reflects a yearning for a space that's not just stylish, but calming, restorative, and a reminder of the natural world we're all connected to.
Talk to "industry experts" and they don't use the phrase "comforting nature" but the phrase captures the essence of the idea, so we like to use it.
The design industry uses more technical terms to describe it such as:
Biophilic Design: This trend focuses on bringing nature indoors to create a more calming and restorative environment. This can be achieved through using natural materials like wood, stone, and plants, as well as incorporating natural light and ventilation. You can also include natural elements through patterns and artwork featuring organic shapes and botanical motifs.
Warm minimalism: A move away from cool tones and stark minimalism towards a more inviting and natural aesthetic.
Japandi: A design style that blends Scandinavian simplicity with Japanese influences, often featuring natural materials and a focus on well-being.
Organic Modern: A style that merges modern design principles with natural materials and organic shapes.
Overall, we think the trend is here to stay for awhile. Here are some ways you can incorporate the "comforting nature" trend into your home decor:
Embrace Earthy Neutrals:
- Paint your walls: Instead of cool grays, opt for warm beiges, soft yellows, or pale pinks. These colors evoke a sense of calmness and create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
- Swap out textiles: Update throw pillows, blankets, and rugs with natural tones like cream, sand, or light terracotta.
- Bring in wood accents: Look for furniture pieces with light or medium wood tones, or add wooden decorative elements like bowls or sculptures.
Layer Textures for Comfort:
- Mix and match textures: Combine soft throws made of wool or boucle with smooth velvet cushions. Add a woven rug made of natural fibers like jute or sisal.
- Incorporate greenery: While houseplants are a great option, woven baskets or textured planters can also add a natural element.
- Don't forget the walls: Hang woven tapestries or macrame wall hangings for a touch of bohemian flair and natural texture.
Welcome Biophilic Design:
- Houseplants are your friends: Choose low-maintenance plants like snake plants or pothos to add pops of life and greenery throughout your space.
- Maximize natural light: Open curtains during the day to let sunshine in and create a more uplifting atmosphere. Consider installing skylights if possible.
- Incorporate natural materials: Opt for furniture crafted from sustainable wood, stone countertops, or even incorporate pebbles or shells into decorative bowls.
- Bring the outdoors in with patterns: Choose wallpaper or throw pillows with botanical prints or patterns that evoke nature, like leaves or flowers.
Remember, you don't need to overhaul your entire home to embrace "comforting nature." Start small by incorporating a few elements here and there. At Native Range all of our items are made from wood, and show grains and natural wood patterns. Our wood wine racks for example are a beautiful way to bring in some natrual looking elements to your home. Let your personal style guide you, and focus on creating a space that feels calming and restorative for you.