Bringing the Outdoors In
Summer is the perfect time to soften the line between inside and out — to bring warmth, texture, and a breath of nature into your daily life. This month, we’re showing how small, thoughtful touches — from materials underfoot to plants climbing your walls — can turn any space into a calm, nature-inspired retreat.
Natural materials — texture, warmth & calm
Introducing natural materials such as wood, clay, linen or stone can instantly soften a space and give it that gentle, grounded feeling. A wooden coffee table, a set of clay planters, or linen pillows bring tactile warmth and visual depth — often more comforting than sleek, cold surfaces. These organic textures remind us of the outdoors, making the home feel earthy and serene.
Small changes add up: a wicker basket here, a corky coaster there — over time, the home feels less like “four walls” and more like a cozy, lived-in shelter.
Biophilic design basics — harness nature’s soothing power
Design styles today call it “biophilic design,” but really it’s just the concept of honouring our innate connection to nature. By intentionally combining greenery, natural materials, daylight, and organic shapes, you can create indoor spaces that feel calming, balanced, and alive.
Start small: a few low-maintenance houseplants like pothos, snake plants, or ZZ plants can make a big difference.
Place plants where you naturally spend time — near your reading chair, beside your bed, or on a windowsill. Over time, the presence of greenery can boost mood, reduce stress, and even help purify the air.
Window dressing — let light in, keep privacy intact
Windows are one of the biggest design tools many of us underuse. Swapping heavy curtains for light, sheer curtains lets soft sunlight filter through and makes spaces feel open and airy — like living outdoors, but with the comfort of home. This plays into the biophilic principle of leveraging natural light and outdoor views.
For more privacy or varied light, consider layering — for example, a sheer inner curtain + a heavier outer drape, or blinds behind lightweight curtains. This combination gives flexibility depending on the time of day and mood you want to set.
Living walls & vertical planters: greenery for every home
No backyard? No problem. Vertical planters and living walls turn blank walls into lush, vibrant art — and they’re ideal for small apartments or urban homes.
You can build your own living wall using modular wall planters, hanging pots, or even shelving units adapted for plants. Mix low-maintenance varieties (like snake plants, pothos, philodendrons) for easier upkeep, and arrange them at different heights for a layered, organic feel.
Besides aesthetic perks, indoor greenery helps purify the air and can boost mood, creativity, and calm — a subtle but powerful mood shift that brings some of the mental benefits of being outdoors into your everyday home.
Earth-toned colour palettes — calm hues inspired by nature
Finally, pulling your whole design together with colours inspired by nature — soft greens, sandy beiges, warm browns, and deep forest tones — gives a sense of cohesion and calm. These earthy palettes echo wood, soil, leaves, and sky — making interiors feel like a natural extension of the outdoors.
MONTHLY FEATURES
DIY PROJECT | Simple Macramé Plant Hanger (Free Beginner Tutorial)
Add some greenery and handcrafted charm to your home this summer with a simple macramé plant hanger — no fancy tools required. This beginner-friendly guide walks you step-by-step through basic knots and materials to create a beautiful hanging planter that’s perfect for small spaces, balconies, or cozy corners.
RECIPE | Mediterranean Chickpea & Veggie Salad
A colourful, protein-packed salad that’s all about fresh summer flavours and natural textures. Crispy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, creamy chickpeas, and crunchy peppers make this a light, satisfying dish — perfect for warm-weather dinners, balcony lunches, or a side at a backyard gathering. Totally veggie-friendly and great to prep ahead for easy summer meals.
Contact me with any questions
Melissa Saretsky | Sales Representative | melissa.saretsky@century21.ca | (780) 709-9658 (Mobile) | CENTURY 21 Masters5954 Gateway Blvd NW Edmonton, AB T6H 2H6
