How to bring the outdoors INSIDE

We love the green stuff! At OSA, we want to help you create a harmonious space that feeds your mind, body, and spirit. That means creating spaces that are inviting, healthy, emotion and thought-provoking, and nurturing. A fantastic way to do that is to incorporate more LIFE into your space with the integration of natural life into your environment. Let’s take a look at the different ways you can do this…

Why is nature so important to incorporate?

Our bodies know that being close to nature makes us feel good. But not only that, it has enormous health benefits and is actually essential for human wellbeing. It is proven that exposure to nature reduces heart rate variability and pulse rates, decreases blood pressure, lowers cortisol and sympathetic nervous system activity. Studies have shown that adding biophilic elements to workplaces, hospitals, living spaces and schools can reduce stress, blood pressure and heart rates while increasing productivity, creativity and overall well-being.

Planters

Available in a wide variety of shapes, materials, and sizes, planted pots have surged in popularity (especially in the case of millennials), with more and more people identifying as self-proclaimed ‘plant parents’. However, just like anything that is an actual living thing, each plant has its own needs and specificities of sunlight, shade, water. So, if you’re about to become a plant parent, do our research before you buy, and if you want to start simple, succulents are significantly harder to kill.

Living Green wall

Although significantly more complex than a simple potted succulent or two, living green walls are quite striking when done right. Green walls are part of a growing trend around the world in all types of spaces, apartment lobbies, office spaces, community buildings. There are a few ways a living green wall can be created and implemented, and if this is something you desire in your space you should mention it to your designer earlier in the process. The system is based on cables, vertical planters, or grids for climbing plants to grow. They can sustain a variety of different species, but not all species are the right fit for a green wall, get an experienced gardener or a botanist on your team for best results. 

Natural furniture 

Now, this one is a bit abstract but still impacts your indoor space. The use of natural materials and furniture make up the feel of your space, and if you’re in the process of creating a more immersive, natural environment incorporating these materials can go a long way. Bamboo is a popular choice and is available in many different shapes and forms. There are a few reasons for this; it’s a fast-growing resource, strong, and natural. Bamboo furniture, home/office products and room dividers can help create that “outdoors” feeling you’re seeking.

Consider the elements

Ask yourself, are all of the elements present in your space? Earth, fire, water, air. Air is a vital choice, obviously. But, ensuring you have a natural, free flow of fresh air can elevate your space and strengthen your mental capabilities and focus. Likewise, the presence of objects like pebbles, sand, natural woods, and running water take your area to the next level in crafting a tranquil space. And fire? Now, we know not all rooms are equipped to have a roaring fireplace or two. So, just pop down to IKEA and get yourself some candles, mate!

What will you be implementing next?