Since we’ve been spending so much more time at home, many of us are craving the beauty of the outdoors. Of course, nature has always been a strong influence on interior design—after all, what’s more functional and exquisite than something the earth has created? But now, designers are showing us new ways to use natural elements in décor. These features are finally taking center stage.

Striking Stone

If you’re a fan of gemstones and crystals, you can work them into your life in a more satisfying way than wearing bracelets. Their one-of-a-kind color, characteristics, and depth are even more breathtaking on a larger scale, so don’t be afraid to display geodes on shelves or a large specimen on a stand as if it were a piece of art. You can find these examples of nature’s sparkle making up lamp bases, decorative obelisks, gemstone trees that look like bonsais, and more. Invest in an extraordinary amethyst or agate side table, and guests will find it difficult to talk about anything else.

Growing Greenery

Many of us adopted a plant at the beginning of the pandemic to give our homes a little more life. If your plant is still alive, congratulations! You’re ready for something a little more exciting. Go big with a lively monstera plant, which anyone can take care of successfully. The leaves have never been more popular in fabrics, art prints, and even jewelry. And don’t forget that the large container is an opportunity for a beautiful vintage planter or artisan pottery. If you’re even more adventurous, try the latest trend in lush interiors: a “living wall” or vertical garden that makes any home strikingly exotic.

Water Wonders

You’ll see more water elements in yards and landscaping as people transform their outdoor living spaces into spa-like, zen retreats. The fountains and koi ponds outside are making the transition indoors. The meditative trickling of a tabletop fountain can work with any interior style or be the centerpiece of a room. And for a real ocean vibe, revisit and reinvent the classic aquarium. Whether you choose something small, vertical, modern—or even something cube-shaped to double as a coffee table—you can be waterfront wherever you are. Fish are so mesmerizing that you might forget to turn on the TV.

These are just a few of the ways to use natural elements in your décor, so look around outside to see what inspires you. If you’re intrigued by the idea of more gemstones and crystals in your surroundings, take a look around our website for artisan masterpieces straight from beautiful Brazil.

Sabrina Dadalt