null Skip to Content

5 Ways to Bring the Outdoors In

5 Ways to Bring the Outdoors In

Spring is a time of renewal, and what better way to celebrate the season than by updating your home’s design? Using natural materials like wood or stone can bring a fresh touch to your living space that’s perfect for the season, and will stay timeless all year long.

One of the best things about using natural materials in your home is that they are easy to incorporate into an established design. Natural materials work like neutrals; they meld seamlessly with existing elements in your bedrooms, bathrooms and living spaces. Here are some great ways to bring the outdoors in this season:

1. Use Rocks as Accents

Rocks aren’t just for paths. River rocks can add both texture and interest to your home’s decor. Our River Rock Wall Panels are perfect for interior walls and columns; add them to your home bar’s island, or install them as an accent wall in your bathroom to create a spa-like atmosphere. For a finishing touch, use smooth, polished rocks to fill glass vases before adding succulents or other greenery.

2. Add Reclaimed Wood

Using wood as wainscoting, an accent wall or full paneling is a classic way to add a natural touch to your home. By opting for something that looks less manufactured, such as our Reclaimed Shiplap Barn Wood Panels, you can keep your living spaces from looking dated. The variations in color and texture make this a modern and stylish decor choice.

3. Opt for a Whitewashed Look

Originally a solution of lime and water, whitewash brings to mind images of beach cottages and boats in a harbor. Include a twist on this classic choice by using our Old Chicago Whitewashed Brick Wall Panels to update your home’s interior. Emphasize the natural, beachy feel with white linen and nautical art.

4. Use Wood Beams to Divide a Room

If you have an open floor plan, a central wooden beam is a smart way to break up the space and maintain an airy feel. Beams that are rougher in appearance and texture, like our Beachwood Faux Wood Beams, are perfect for a coastal or bohemian design style. Choose a lighter color to pair well with a wide range of decor, from neutrals to jewel tones.

5. Add Greenery and Natural Elements

There’s no better way to welcome spring than through the simple act of adding greenery to your home. Potted plants, flowers and succulents can be scattered around your home, wherever you have space. Use potted plants instead of bookends on your shelf, hang a plant with long tendrils in your bathroom, or start an herb garden on your windowsill. The options are endless! If you don’t have a green thumb, faux flowers and plants give you the same look without the effort. Mix in natural materials like jute, linen and macrame for even more fresh and airy touches.

Make Your Home Design Projects Easy

Before adding your spring design elements, take a moment to look around your home for anything left over from the winter. Heavy blankets, leftover holiday decorations and anything you’re tired of should be stored until the end of the year so you have a blank slate for decorating.

While adding wood and stone elements to your home is the perfect spring project, the expense and time commitment of installation and future maintenance can be daunting. Choosing faux panels and beams will save you money and stress. These products are a fraction of the weight of real stone or wood, and can be installed without professional skills or masonry. And once faux products are installed, they don’t require the upkeep that true wood or stone needs. You can completely change the look of your home in as little as one weekend!

Spring decor can also include cute vintage finds, gardening tools, wicker baskets — anything you have that reminds you of time spent outdoors is an excellent option. It’s easy to create a bright and fresh feel in your home with natural elements and outdoor decor. A nice added benefit to this type of design is that you don’t have to worry about everything being perfect. Spring decor naturally lends itself to a more casual style. Line shelves with figurines, or group several pots together on a window shelf; the more items you have, the more intentional the look will feel. You can have fun and make your home feel like an outdoor retreat in no time at all!