Into the Woods: Forest-Inspired Home Design

Spending time in nature can be a truly healing experience. In Japan, physicians have been known to prescribe shinrin-Yoku, or forest bathing, to patients as a therapeutic approach to support physical and mental well-being. The thought is by submerging oneself deep within the woodland canopy, we can disconnect from the pull of technology and strengthen our connection to body and mind. The forest specifically provides a hypnotic sensory experience that enhances this journey to mindfulness while bringing peace to the spirit.

By emulating the forest’s influence in home design, we can help align our lives with nature’s serenity. To bring woodland inspiration into your home, follow the principles of Japanese forest bathing as a foundation. By creating moments throughout the home that inspire you to slow down and engage the senses, you can create a calming experience for yourself, your loved ones, and guests.

Start with a woodsy palette that envelopes the home in the colors of the forest. From dark walnut to white oak, wood tones mix beautifully when a common graining pattern is displayed. Weave in shades of green ranging from eucalyptus to deep pine. Green often takes on nuanced tones when exposed to different intensities of light. Allow yourself to experience each finish under a range of lighting to understand how each shade will transform throughout the day.

The woodland-inspired home can be rustic or refined depending on the home’s finishes. Deeper tones of green paired with brass accents and rich shades of terracotta create opulence without diminishing nature’s influence. In contrast, mossy shades of green and rugged materials like brick and timber evoke a cabin-like appeal.

Sensory experience is an important aspect of forest bathing, and these same elements add layers of tranquility throughout the home. In nature, trees emit oils known as phytoncides, that give them their woodsy scent while protecting them from disease. These oils can also be beneficial to humans and have even been shown to enhance immune function. Infusing the home with eucalyptus or cypress essential oils or burning naturally cleansing agents like palo santo can help to recreate the experience.

Adding soft elements of sound can further engage the senses. Sanctuary bells or windchimes hung outside a window, an indoor water feature, or softly playing music appeal to the auditory system and encourage the mind to remain rooted in the present.

At the heart of forest-inspired home design is the desire to live in harmony with nature. As we allow the ambience of the woods to wrap around us, we often find that our breath becomes slower, and our minds become focused. Do you imagine a palette of wood tone, green, and brass when you envision your life of beauty? Or do you find perhaps that another home design style may better suite your sensibilities? Browse a collection of home projects crafted by our network of talented interior designers to help spark your creativity. Wherever you are in your design journey, our team can help you create a space that feels authentically like home.