What's your favorite way to incorporate natural elements into your interior design? Share a specific example of how you've brought the outdoors in.

Question

Unlock the secrets of biophilic design with this expert-guided exploration of natural elements in interior design. Discover how to seamlessly blend the outdoors with indoor living spaces, from organic lighting to live-edge furniture. This article provides actionable tips and creative ideas, informed by industry professionals, to transform any room into a serene, nature-inspired retreat.

Reinis Butka · Answer

One of my favorite ways to incorporate natural elements into interior design is through organic lighting solutions that mimic natural sunlight and complement natural materials like wood, stone, and greenery. 
I believe lighting is one of the most overlooked yet powerful ways to bring the outdoors inside, creating a seamless connection between nature and interior spaces.
A specific example of this is when I worked on a new build condo where the client wanted a warm, nature-inspired aesthetic. I used pendant lights made from rattan and bamboo to create a soft, diffused glow, reminiscent of dappled sunlight filtering through trees. 
To enhance this effect, I incorporated biophilic lighting--fixtures designed to simulate natural daylight cycles, helping to regulate the body's circadian rhythm and making the space feel more in tune with nature.
In addition to lighting, I layered in natural textures like a reclaimed wood dining table, stone accent walls, and linen curtains to enhance the organic feel. 
We also integrated a living plant wall near the kitchen, which not only acted as a statement piece but also improved air quality and brought a sense of calm to the space.
I think what makes natural elements so powerful in interior design is their ability to transform how a space feels--making it more inviting, refreshing, and harmonious. 
Whether it's through lighting, natural materials, or greenery, bringing the outdoors in is a timeless approach that enhances both aesthetics and well-being.

Kanika B. Khurana · Answer

One of my favorite ways to bring the outdoors in is by using bifold doors. This creates a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor areas, making both feel like one expansive, connected environment. With the doors open, you get a lot of natural light, the fresh air circulates, and suddenly, your living space extends into nature.
With a recent home remodel project, the client wanted an open, airy feel in their connected living and kitchen area and to bring in more natural light. As part of the design, we suggested a kitchen layout with a large central island for better flow and functionality. On one side of the kitchen, where there used to be cabinets and a small sliding door, we replaced it with a large bifold door leading to the outdoor space. This brought in more light and also created a seamless transition between the kitchen and backyard.
It's a simple yet powerful design choice to blur the line between indoors and out.

Jennifer Fordham · Answer

My approach to incorporating natural elements begins with respecting what already exists beyond the walls. The most fundamental way to connect with nature isn't through objects we bring in, but through intentional design that honors the environment surrounding a home. 
When designing a breakfast room for a Colonial Williamsburg-style home, I was struck by the private, established evergreen garden visible through the room's windows. Rather than competing with this view, we enhanced it with green botanical wallcovering and pattern-matched custom Roman shades designed to stack clear of the windows when raised. The green botanical echoes the year-round view, creating an unobstructed connection to the outdoors. We even painted the room's vaulted ceiling sky-blue-- all deliberate design choices that allow the garden to become an extension of the room. Instead of separating the occupants from nature, the breakfast nook honors the relationship with it. 
Beyond visual connections, functional relationships with nature are important. Windows that open invite fresh air--nature's original remedy for stale interiors.
When selecting design materials, prioritize those with authentic natural origins. Sustainably harvested hardwood flooring develops a patina that synthetics cannot replicate. Wool broadloom and area rugs offer superior durability and comfort and actively improve indoor air quality. These aren't just aesthetic choices but wellness decisions that connect us to nature.  
Living elements complete this approach. I've written extensively about this in my article "Tempted by Artificial Plants and Flowers? Resist. What to Do Instead," where I explain that real plants offer something artificial alternatives simply cannot: authentic connection to nature's rhythms.  
Solutions abound even when maintenance is a concern. We've incorporated a preserved boxwood ball that only requires an occasional misting of water for a homeowner who wanted a bit of greenery despite extensive travel. 
What makes our approach successful isn't the quantity of natural elements but their thoughtful integration. By designing interiors that frame, complement, and interact with the outdoors, we create spaces that feel expansive and connected rather than isolated and artificial. This philosophy honors both our innate connection to nature and the unique character of each home's environment, resulting in spaces that nourish the body and spirit through authentic, intentional design.

Lauren Hammer · Answer

I love incorporating natural elements like plants and reclaimed wood into interior design. In a recent project for a busy family, we used large plants to divide spaces, creating a calming, open feel. Rustic wooden shelves and baskets added texture and functionality, making the home both organized and soothing. These simple additions not only enhanced the space visually but also created a peaceful, clutter-free environment for the family to enjoy.

Sarah Thompson · Answer

Incorporating Natural Elements into Interior DesignOne of my favorite ways to incorporate natural elements into interior design is by using live-edge wooden furniture and pairing it with an abundance of indoor plants. This combination not only brings the outdoors inside but also creates a calming and organic atmosphere in any space.
How It Works1. Live-Edge Wooden Furniture:A live-edge dining table or coffee table retains the natural curves and imperfections of the wood, making it a beautiful centerpiece. The grain and texture add warmth and character to the room, giving it a rustic yet modern feel. For instance, I once used a live-edge acacia wood dining table as the focal point in a client's dining room. It transformed the space into a natural haven, especially when paired with neutral tones and textured materials like linen.
2. Indoor Plants as Design Accents:Incorporating plants like monsteras, fiddle-leaf figs, or trailing pothos into the design adds life and vibrancy. To complement the live-edge furniture, I placed plants at varying heights--on the floor, shelves, and even hanging planters. This created a layered, organic look that mimicked the feel of a lush forest.
3. Specific ExampleIn my own home, I used a combination of natural elements to enhance the living room. A reclaimed wood coffee table anchors the space, surrounded by soft wool throws and jute rugs. For greenery, I added a large fiddle-leaf fig in the corner and a cluster of smaller succulents on the windowsill. To balance the natural tones, I used light, sheer curtains that allow sunlight to filter through, creating a serene and inviting ambiance.
Tips for Bringing the Outdoors In1. Mix Materials: Combine natural woods with stones, woven baskets, or clay pottery for a layered, earthy aesthetic.
2. Use Natural Light: Position elements like plants or textured furniture near windows to highlight their natural beauty.
3. Stick to a Cohesive Palette: Use colors inspired by nature, such as greens, browns, and soft neutrals, to maintain harmony.
By incorporating these elements, you can create a home that feels connected to nature, promoting both tranquility and timeless style.

Greg Bailey · Answer

Hi Fabrics and Home team,
I'm Greg, founder of Antipodean Home, a bedding brand inspired by the raw beauty of New Zealand and grounded in regenerative living. We offer only one thing -- organic wool comforters and sheets, made exclusively in white, and crafted by low-impact regenerative farmers.
Here's how we use nature as inspiration in the home:
Color strategy: We embrace the simplicity of pure white, reflecting cloud cover, open skies, and the calming neutrality of nature untouched. White allows textures and materials to take the spotlight, creating a peaceful, grounding space.
Accessories: Since our products are minimal, we let the materials speak -- organic wool adds softness and breathability, naturally regulating temperature and evoking the comfort of nature without clutter.
Materials: We only use regenerative wool and GOTS-certified cotton -- materials that do more than sustain, they restore soil health and support biodiversity. This brings not just nature's look into the home, but its actual rhythm and resilience.
Common mistakes: Nature-inspired design often gets overdone -- too many earthy props, synthetic textures, or busy palettes. In truth, less is more. Let nature breathe.
Our moment: Our flagship bedroom setup is a quiet ode to New Zealand's open plains -- white wool layers, breezy cotton sheets, no dyes, no chemicals -- just comfort that honors the planet. Happy to share images if helpful.
Thanks for considering our story -- we'd love to contribute to your piece.
Warmly,GregFounder, Antipodean Homecomfy@antipodeanhome.comhttps://antipodean-home.com

Dan Grigin · Answer

Sustainable hardwood flooring serves as our foundation for bringing natural elements indoors, creating a seamless connection to the environment. In a recent Silicon Valley project, we installed wide-plank white oak with natural oil finish that preserved the wood's authentic grain patterns and warmth. Rather than stopping at the flooring, we extended this natural element upward by incorporating matching floating shelves and a statement wall featuring the same wood species. The transformative moment came from pairing these wood elements with large potted plants strategically placed where natural light highlighted both the living greenery and the organic grain patterns in the flooring. This multi-dimensional approach created a cohesive natural experience that improved air quality while providing the proven psychological benefits of biophilic design - the homeowners reported feeling noticeably more relaxed and grounded in this space compared to their previous synthetic-heavy interior.

Alina Smith · Answer

Grow lights are a gardener's best friend! With the help of grow lights, you can set up plants in areas of the home that lack natural light for them to thrive. If you have a large plant, place it next to a light source and simply switch out the light bulb for a grow bulb. Smaller plants can really brighten up a kitchen or bookshelves, and there are so many versatile grow light options for individual planters. Not only is this a good way to green up your home, but the extra lights can really help to brighten up your space!

Terri Fiori · Answer

To introduce natural elements in this space, we embraced a palette of soft neutrals, layering warm taupes and creamy whites to create a sense of calm and effortless elegance.We introduced custom hand-painted silk, embroidered panels depicting delicate Japanese cherry blossom trees. Rendered in soft, tonal hues, these panels added depth and tranquility to the space while maintaining a seamless flow with the overall design. Thoughtfully affixed to custom panels, they were designed to be easily relocated, ensuring that they could move with the owners wherever life might lead.

Greg Fox · Answer

My favorite way to incorporate natural elements into interior design is with granite--it's a timeless material that brings both beauty and durability into any space. Whether it's countertops, backsplashes, or even accent walls, granite adds a unique, organic feel that truly connects your home to nature.
One of my favorite projects involved installing a full-height granite backsplash in a kitchen, using a slab with rich, earthy veining. It not only complemented the countertops but also became a statement piece, adding depth and character to the entire space. When done tastefully, natural stone can elevate a home's aesthetic while keeping it warm and inviting.
Bringing the outdoors in isn't just about plants and wood accents--granite adds a natural touch that's both elegant and long-lasting.

Patrick Dinehart · Answer

In our company, we ensure we create an indoor space that is comfortable and connected to the outside. Installing wood flooring is an easy yet effective method of adding natural elements to home space planning. Wood provides a calm, natural touch to a space through the texture and appearance of the wood itself. For example, I recently renovated a living room with oak hardwood floors. The natural grains and tones not only added character to the space but also complemented the green plants and natural light streaming in through large windows.
Using materials like bamboo or reclaimed wood is another approach. These options are environmentally friendly and infuse a classic touch while promoting eco-conscious choices. For my home, I selected an accent wall of salvaged wood in the dining room. The mixture of natural wood with modern furnishings created a balanced, warm atmosphere. It's an ideal way to harmonize style and ecological stewardship.
Incorporating elements like plants, stone, and wood allows you to bring the outdoors in without overwhelming the space.

Tammy Sons · Answer

My ultimate home decor tip for a warm and welcoming environment is to bring nature in. My living room has a corner where plants that love indirect light, such as ferns and pothos, live. There is a very instant softening effect of the greenery, which is calming. I also use candles, warm lighting, and soft-lit table lamps. There's just something about the combination of nature and soft light that makes the room seem like a place of tranquility. Then, throw the blanket over the couch arm, and it all comes together, making it my go-to spot to unwind after a busy day.

Ryan Nelson · Answer

One of the best ways to bring a touch of nature into interior design is by incorporating plants. Adding greenery has an incredible ability to instantly transform a space, making it feel more vibrant, welcoming, and full of life.
There was one specific example that stands out in my mind where I helped a client bring the outdoors in. They had a large living room with high ceilings and lots of natural light, but it felt cold and sterile due to its modern design. To warm up the space and add some life, we decided to fill the empty corner with a tall fiddle leaf fig tree.
Not only did the tree add height and dimension to the room, but its lush green leaves also brought nature inside, making the room feel more vibrant and inviting. We also incorporated some natural elements like a woven rug and wooden accents to further enhance the organic feel of the space.
By incorporating natural elements into our design, we were able to bring balance and harmony to the room, as well as creating a sense of connection with the outdoors. This is just one example of how interior designers can use plants and natural elements to transform a space and make it feel more alive.

David Zhang · Answer

Bringing natural elements into interior design has always been a creative passion of mine. One of my favorite ways to do this is by incorporating live plants--nothing elevates a space like a touch of greenery. For example, in my home office, I've placed a fiddle leaf fig tree in the corner by the window. It not only adds a pop of color but also creates a calming atmosphere, perfect for fueling creativity. Additionally, I often use wooden textures and natural light to complement these elements, ensuring the space feels grounded and harmonious. These choices aren't just aesthetic; they reflect a connection to nature that inspires both my work and my life.

Andrew Osborne · Answer

One of my favorite ways to incorporate natural elements into interior design is by using indoor plants to create a seamless connection between the inside and outside. A great example of this was when I helped a client transform their living room into a lush, green sanctuary. They wanted a space that felt calming and organic, so I used my knowledge of plant selection and placement to create a natural balance. I chose a mix of large statement plants like fiddle-leaf figs and rubber trees to add height, while cascading pothos and ferns softened the corners. To ensure the plants thrived, I factored in light conditions, humidity levels, and the client's ability to care for them, recommending a combination of hardy and low-maintenance varieties. My horticultural expertise helped them avoid common pitfalls, like placing plants in areas with inconsistent lighting or overwatering, which can often happen when people first introduce greenery into their home.  
Beyond just plants, I also incorporated natural textures like wooden planters, stone accents, and a small indoor water feature to enhance the organic feel. By carefully selecting materials that complemented the existing decor, we created a space that not only looked beautiful but also improved air quality and brought a sense of tranquility. My years of experience allowed me to choose plants that would not just survive but truly thrive in the home, ensuring long-term success. The client was thrilled with the final result, and they later told me that their new indoor garden became their favorite part of the house. It's moments like these that remind me how powerful nature can be in transforming a space.

Alexsandr Borkin · Answer

I've always loved the calming effect of nature, so one of my favorite ways to incorporate natural elements into interior design is by using live plants creatively. A few years ago, I wanted to brighten up a dark corner in my living room. 
Instead of filling the space with standard furniture, I decided to bring in a variety of tall indoor plants, including a fiddle-leaf fig and some smaller leafy accents. The transformation was incredible--it gave the room a fresh and vibrant energy every time I walked in.
One of the most satisfying moments came when I added a carved wooden planter that reminded me of a hiking trail I visited. It tied the greenery to a personal memory, creating a subtle but meaningful connection to the outdoors. Seeing the plants thrive over time has been unexpectedly rewarding; watering them became a quiet, meditative ritual that grounded me after long days.
Adding the plants not only improved the aesthetic but also softened the atmosphere. For anyone hesitant, start small--a simple grouping near a window can make a big difference.

Shehar Yar · Answer

My favorite way to bring natural elements into interior design is by incorporating living green walls combined with natural materials like reclaimed wood and stone accents. For example, in my own home, I installed a vertical garden in the living area that serves as both a striking focal point and a natural air purifier. This living installation not only adds vibrant greenery and texture to the space but also creates a serene, organic atmosphere that mirrors the calm of an outdoor setting.
Integrating the green wall with complementary natural elements--such as a reclaimed wood coffee table and stone decorative pieces--helps to create a cohesive, nature-inspired environment. This approach not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also promotes well-being by blurring the lines between indoor living and the refreshing qualities of nature.

Parker McInnis · Answer

One of my favorite ways to incorporate natural elements into interior design is by bringing in plants and organic materials that create a calming and earthy atmosphere. A specific example of this was in a living room where I added a variety of plants in different sizes and types, such as a large fiddle leaf fig tree in the corner and smaller succulents on shelves and side tables. I also used natural wood furniture pieces, like a reclaimed wood coffee table, to further connect the space to nature. To complete the look, I used woven baskets and jute rugs to add texture and warmth. The combination of greenery and natural materials brought a fresh, outdoor feel to the room while maintaining a clean, modern aesthetic. This approach not only brightened up the space but also created a tranquil environment that felt connected to the natural world.

David Loo · Answer

One of my favorite ways to incorporate natural elements into interior design is by using foraged branches and natural wood accents. A few years ago, during a fall walk, I came across a beautifully twisted branch on the forest floor. It was weathered, smooth, and had so much character that I couldn't leave it behind. 
I brought it home, cleaned it up, and turned it into a centerpiece on my dining table by pairing it with some candles and a few dried flowers. It instantly became a conversation piece and brought such warmth to the room.
That experience taught me how much impact small, natural elements can have. Later, I started incorporating more items like untreated wooden bowls and reclaimed wood shelves in my living space. These pieces not only added a natural texture but also created a calming atmosphere.
Bringing the outdoors in through these small touches has made my home feel more grounded and connected to nature. It reminds me to slow down and appreciate the beauty of the natural world, even indoors.

19 Ways to Incorporate Natural Elements into Interior Design

19 Ways to Incorporate Natural Elements into Interior Design

Organic Lighting Mimics Natural Sunlight

Bifold Doors Connect Indoor and Outdoor Spaces

Design Honors Existing Natural Surroundings

Plants and Wood Create Calming Spaces

Live-Edge Furniture Pairs with Indoor Greenery

White Bedding Reflects Nature's Simplicity

Sustainable Hardwood Extends Beyond Flooring

Grow Lights Brighten Dark Corners

Hand-Painted Silk Panels Depict Nature

Granite Adds Timeless Natural Beauty

Wood Flooring Brings Outdoors Inside

Plants and Soft Light Create Tranquil Atmosphere

Tall Plants Transform Cold Spaces

Office Greenery Fuels Creativity

Expert Plant Selection Enhances Living Spaces

Living Room Corner Becomes Vibrant Oasis

Living Green Walls Purify Indoor Air

Plants and Natural Materials Refresh Rooms

Foraged Branches Become Conversation Pieces