Natural materials have a rich history and have been used to craft and furnish homes for centuries. They help foster environments that exude warmth and authenticity and enhance both traditional and contemporary spaces. Layering natural materials into a home instantly infuses rooms with organic texture and colour, contributing to a warm and natural feel. There is something profoundly reassuring in the knowledge that humankind has been working with these materials for millennia.
As more and more technology is introduced into our lives and home, many of us crave connection to the outside world. Incorporating natural materials can breathe new life into our spaces and play an important role in forging meaningful connections to the outdoors. In a world of hard, man-made surfaces, natural materials feel attuned to nature and can enhance the way we feel and function. Exposure to nature has been shown in numerous studies to help reduce stress and improve cognitive performance, and natural materials can help replicate this effect.
Whilst natural materials can be more expensive to purchase compared to synthetic materials, they compensate for this in durability and versatility. They have greater longevity, age beautifully and can also often be repurposed for new uses. Natural materials also tend to be far more biodegradable than their synthetic counterparts which are often highly processed. The use of natural materials has a direct positive impact on the overall monetary value of a home. A space rich in natural materials will always be more sought after and more importantly have greater sustainability.
There are many different natural materials which can be used across the home. Here we share some favourites that feature in both our home and store:
WOOD
Few materials can rival the versatility, character and visual warmth of wood. With its natural quality, wood creates a sense of softness and a connection to the outdoors. From old and rustic to modern and refined, wood is hard wearing and has an innate ability to elevate any room. It is also incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways, from flooring to wall and ceiling finishes, furniture and decor. Wooden elements can effortlessly complement any design style and bring a sense of grounding tranquility to a space.