Whether you’re a true lover of the outdoors or simply crave the feeling of wide-open spaces, Mother Nature has some secrets that can turn your kitchen into a more relaxing, revitalizing space.
So how can you bring the outdoors inside? You might be ready for a major renovation, or a few little tweaks might feel just right. We’ve put together a list of ways to embrace nature, regardless of your time or budget restrictions.
INCORPORATE LARGE HOUSEPLANTS
Nothing beats real foliage when it comes to creating a nature theme. If your kitchen gets natural light, consider adding large plants, like the ones in this kitchen. Decorating with plants is a great way to fill awkward spaces with color and nature.
ENLARGE THE WINDOW OVER THE SINK
Windows provide ample access to sunlight, fresh air and an overall feeling of spaciousness. Consider adding one big window to your kitchen, or shift your layout to accommodate a whole wall of windows.
BUY CUT FLOWERS OF FORCE BULBS
Cut flowers can add foliage and colorful blooms to your kitchen, even in the depths of winter. When purchasing flowers, look for bouquets with green foliage as well as bright flowers. Forcing bulbs is another way to get long-lasting color and foliage in your kitchen.
USE GRASSCLOTH ON WALLS OR WINDOW SHADES
Grasscloth is a beautiful and natural material often used as wallpaper and window coverings, and it can bring texture that feels warm and organic. Grasscloth window shades filter light similarly to tree foliage overhead.
ADD A SKYLIGHT
Skylights brighten your space, and the infusion of sunlight in winter can warm your kitchen and lift your mood. If you’re in a very sunny spot, consider an automated shade.
BRING IN LIVE-EDGE WOOD
A live edge means keeping the natural shape of the tree on one or both edges of a wood slab. This creates a naturalistic look that contrasts well with foliage and light. Some woods, like cherry and walnut, have beautiful grains that reflect light.
FLOORED FOR CHOICE
As with walls, taking outdoor materials like concrete for flooring will transform your kitchen design. This look can be softened with rugs and planters. Go with your personal style, whether that’s deep polished wood, or reclaimed floorboards.
CARVED-STONE SINK
If you are planning a remodel, consider a carved-stone sink. Stone is rock and thus a natural element for your kitchen. Carved-stone sinks feel utilitarian, like something you would find in a potting shed.
NATURAL ELEMENT ACCENTS
Collect natural elements like pine cones, stones and branches and use them as accents in your kitchen design. Fruits and vegetables can even form a centerpiece. Nature-themed china is ideally displayed on open shelving or in glass front cabinets.
OPEN YOUR KITCHEN UP
Removing walls is a great way to allow more light to flow into the kitchen, giving you that feeling of being more connected to the outdoors. You’ll gain openness along with the added views, light and airflow from the other room.
Depending on your kitchen design budget, you can add natural elements in big or small ways. Consider accents like a feature wall that includes stone or brick, or go all out with reclaimed wood, locally sourced stone and river rocks, and a green wall with your favorite plants and herbs.
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