Nature and Design: European Inspirations
I just returned from the most fantastic journey to Spain and Italy where design inspiration was around every corner. For centuries Europeans have looked to nature for inspiration and as the foundation for art and architecture. The planning, construction and design of so many of Europe’s finest masterpieces-churches, temples, monuments, gardens, political centers and artworks look to the study of nature and the mathematical principles that lie within. We can take some tips from the ancients and the artists in our own modern day, at-home design endeavors.
- Column at the Roman Forum
- The Pantheon
- Town of Assisi
Bringing these natural forms and relationships into the artistic and built world allows us to feel at ease, connected, healthy, whole and calm. These shapes and patterns can be found everywhere in nature…. from sunflowers to beehives, to broccoli, to nautilus shells. Nature’s finest geometric principles create awe-inspiring designs.
Images courtesy of Wikipedia
Antoni Guadi (1852-1926), hailing from Barcelona, Spain is one of the foremost designers in history that directly incorporated natural forms into his architecture. This is reflected in his curved construction stone, twisted iron sculptures, and organic like forms. His buildings were other-worldly, secular and sacred, magical and technical, modernista and expressionist. Take a look:
- Ventilation towers at Casa Mila
- Iron gate at Casa Mila
- Interior of the Sagrada Familia Basilic
Here are some of my favorite ways to bring more of nature’s healing and amazing elements into our daily lives:
Declutter first: the natural world is simple with a sense of random order. Overcrowded spaces can make its’ occupantsfeelweighed down and restricted. However, open, airy interiors can give a sense of possiblitiy and freedom. If there are objects in the home that you are not feeling connected to, put them away for awhile to free up some space.
Focus on natural, organic materials and shapes: Look for ways to bring natural elements inside your home. This means jute
- Spiral woven ottoman and outdoor couch, Barcelona
rugs, bamboo floors, rough hewn coffee tables, linen bedding, and natural plaster wall finishes. Incorporate a variety of shapes into the decor of your home- there are few straight lines in nature.
Use colors from nature: Color can foster a sense of tranquility, intimacy and serenity. If you want the feeling of a peaceful natural setting in your home take inspiration from stones, wood, plants and water by using beiges, greens, blues, and those wonderful Mediterranean hues like burnt sienna.
Bring actual elements from the outdoors-in: Driftwood, moss, rocks, plants, and branches can function as natural sculpture and decor. Try replacing some of those old trinkets with a found bird nest or a handful of stones from a special place… bringing awe and inspiration from your nature journeys, inside.
Expand your living space to the outside: During as many months as feasibly possible, open the windows, sit on the deck, drink wine on the terrace. Create a protected outdoor space to expand your living quarters and to reap the benefits of the fresh air, the changing light and the bird songs. Your mind, body and spirit will thank you!
Italy and Spain- I LOVE YOU for all your beauty, incredible design, for the light and the sunsets, for the vibrancy, the art and architecture, the wine and amazing food, for your history and culture and for the all magic you shared with me each and every day. I will return and I will share more Europe-Eco Remedi inspirations here soon!
