Words Louise Higgins
‘There is no better designer than nature,’ said the late Alexander McQueen. This is an observation that is now being embraced by interior designers as they create spaces that will stimulate creativity, improve cognitive function and reduce stress.
With the growing ethos of wellness-focused interior design, the latest trends show a growing appreciation for organic shapes and silhouettes. Frank Lloyd Wright, an American architect who pioneered organic design, believed in promoting the harmony of humans with nature and designing spaces for coexistence.
Organic interiors take inspiration from nature such as botanicals, clouds, pebbles and landscapes. They are free-flowing patterns that are not regulated by exact dimensions in their curves, angles or lengths of line. Using organic shapes in interior design make it more interesting and often softens a contemporary interior scheme.
Organic shapes can be used anywhere in the home, from bathrooms and bedrooms to living rooms and kitchens. They create warmth and texture, introducing a more zen-like environment.
Furniture
Rounded edges, curved lines and circular shapes that take inspiration from nature will add interest, flow and movement to interiors. Opt for sofas, lounge chairs or love seats with smooth curves and soft angles.
For tables, consider a gentle curve on a table edge that showcases the natural pattern of the wood. Introduce circular or sphere-shaped coffee or side tables that incorporate wood, glass or marble for a natural finish. Bring the beauty and tranquillity of the outdoors inside with a wooden tree-branch coat rack.
Materials
To embrace organic design, consider not only shape and form but also natural materials to enhance the connection with nature. Organic elements such as clay, wood, stone, wool and leather are known to reduce stress and promote well-being.
Lighting
Maximise natural light to connect with the outdoors as much as possible. There are many beautiful light fittings, lampshades, chandeliers and table lamps that mimic branches, flowers, leaves and other shapes in the natural world. Choosing fittings made with natural materials like rattan, bamboo, cork or seagrass, and lampshades made from hessian, linen or rice paper provide that organic connection with nature.
Fabrics and wallpaper
Motifs from nature and stylised botanical forms are right on-trend. Formal repetitive patterns or imperfect organic motifs provide softness and warmth against flat surfaces and the rigid lines of window frames and furniture.
Consider curtains and soft furnishings made from fabric with printed organic shapes such as floral and foliage patterns. Voile curtains are perfect for allowing sunlight and views of nature to come through, while the sheer fabric also softens the intensity of a harsh glare.
There are plentiful options for botanical-themed nature-inspired wallpaper designs that are suitable for a feature wall or the entire room. To create the perfect feature wall try a nature-themed bespoke wallpaper mural.
Tiles
Interior design has moved away from the all-white symmetrical look that has dominated design for the last decade and tiles are a great way to add the colours, patterns and textures of nature. Tiles come in an abundance of natural shapes, such as flowers, leaves, stars and honeycomb-like hexagons.
Textured stone-effect floor tiles that incorporate natural forms and organic materials are a popular choice for flooring and are available in a range of sandy, earthy tones and neutral greys. For a more organic-shaped appearance consider a mosaic tile, or terrazzo which is making a major comeback. A feature tiled-wall mural embracing nature can create a spectacular effect.
Lastly, onyx-effect porcelain tiles are available in a stunning selection of iridescent shades that replicate the beauty of the mineral and its colours.
Floor coverings
From marble to stone to wool carpets and solid wood there are lots of floor coverings that are constructed from natural materials. They are also a good way to introduce organic shapes and textures. Think of the beauty of wooden grains, herringbone designs, charming floral rugs and carpets that create a warm and homely space.
Another possibility is a custom vinyl flooring using liquid shapes that do not feature any fixed pattern or exact dimensions in their curves, angles or lines. These unique contemporary all-over floor patterns can enhance interior spaces, making them more engaging and wholesome.
Accessories
Opt for circular or pebble-shaped mirrors rather than square or rectangular ones. Also, consider a pebble-cluster mirror – some come with gilded detailing for an opulent decorative statement.
Adding greenery to interiors responds to our internal need to be close to nature. Indoor plants are the easiest way to directly incorporate the shapes and textures of nature while also adding a tranquil natural element.
Whether abstract or representational, art can connect us to nature in many forms. Visual art can replicate forms as they appear in nature such as flowers, plants, trees, animals, seashells, fossils and water. Abstract art often represents forms found in nature. Many talented contemporary artists work across a variety of media, including painting, sculpture, drawing, ceramics and photography.
Louise Higgins, founder of Aspire Design, is an award-winning designer and a graduate of the Interior Design Academy of Ireland. Louise is a full member of the Interiors Association and is also a member of the Crafts Council of Ireland. For further advice, contact Louise at +353 45 982265 or louise@aspiredesign.ie
- ‘Interiors: Nature by Design’ is published in Anthology Volume 17. Read more features from this volume or buy it now.
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