CREDIT: HOMETONE.COM
A nature-inspired theme can brighten up any city apartment.

Sunsets, beaches, mountains, forests and gardens — who wouldn't love to look out their window and be able to see one of these sceneries? Living in cities, picturesque natural scenes are not always what we see when we look out our windows. Nature-inspired interior decor is the solution to helping us feel more connected with nature while living in a city.

I lived in Fanshawe's residence for two years, and both years the view from my window was the Oasis restaurant in SC building. It got depressing staring at the school all the time; I would have much preferred looking out my window and seeing a few trees, at least. Unfortunately a view is something you cannot change, but this does not mean you have to feel disconnected from nature. Inner decor can bring us a little closer to nature by bringing elements into household fixtures.

The first step to creating your nature-inspired scheme is to pick the type of scenery you want to mimic. If you want a beach-inspired scheme, I suggest using earth tones such as sand colours, browns, blues and whites. If you desire a mountain-inspired space, then I suggest using colours such as greys, whites, browns and greens. For a forest-inspired space, use a variety of greens, browns, sands and even yellows. The easiest way to pick out the exact colours to use for a space is to browse pictures of the outdoors and choose colours that suit your taste.

The next step to creating your nature scheme is to pick out fabrics for your space. I recommend fabrics that have a natural vibe to them, including patterns and textures. Patterns can vary from organic shapes that could be inspired by waves of an ocean to prints of leaves inspired by plants and trees. Choosing fabrics that have texture creates visual interest and can mimic the many textures of the outdoors. Be sure to include natural fabrics in the space to create balance between the pattern and textured fabrics.

Taking your theme to the next step is simple. Use more organic furniture pieces that are made from wood for your tables, nightstands, bookcases and chairs. Incorporating wood pieces into your space is essential for nature-inspired design. Next, be sure to add accessories such as pottery and paintings with nature-inspired designs to maintain a unified look. Pottery could have nature-inspired colours to go with your colour scheme, while the painting could have an abstract nature design.

Last but not least, the simplest way to bring the outside in is with living plants. Plants have more than just one benefit, they have been shown to help decrease depression. Plants are the ultimate way to incorporate nature into your home and to lighten your mood: it is safe to say plants in your space is a must!

Feeling disconnected from nature by living in a city with a congested view of buildings and streets? No problem! Nature-inspired interior decor will help you reconnect with nature, regardless of where you live.