At a time when city life often separates us from nature, the trend of bringing the outdoors inside has become an important design philosophy as this integration not only enhances aesthetics but also wellbeing promotes our homes. The desire to reconnect with nature has led to an incredible change in living spaces, as tranquil landscapes, fresh air and natural beauty are a longing that goes beyond the walls of traditional homes.
Design with nature:
A lifestyle of connection with nature is not just an aesthetic choice, but a philosophy that promotes well-being and a healthy relationship with the environment. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Kirthi Chilukuri, Founder and Managing Director, Stonecraft Group shared, “Villas are designed to be inward facing, courtyard facing and sunlight oriented. The same greenist design is carried over into the apartments by bringing plant boxes inside, creating openable openings and focusing on the view of the greenery and daylight. Incorporating nature into living spaces means more than just a few potted plants or a balcony garden. It’s about designing a home where nature becomes an integral part of the architecture and everyday experience.”
She added: “The lifestyle we support and hope our residents practice is to garden daily, grow produce and use energy and resources intelligently.” Spatial planning makes nature just as integral Part of your life such as fresh air or daylight, e.g. B. by seamlessly transitioning from your indoor living area to an outdoor backyard full of lush vegetation. This can be achieved by using the same flooring material indoors and outdoors and using floor-to-ceiling, opening doors to transition from one room to another. Never underestimate the importance of ample sunlight, ventilation and being outdoors for your mental health. Incorporating these rudimentary offerings into one's lifestyle reduces stress, boosts creativity, promotes calm, and fosters a deeper connection with the environment. It’s about taking responsibility for your living space to foster a deeper connection with nature.”
Vertical Gardens and Fairytale Gardens: Redefining Green Urban Spaces
Architect Sowmya Lakhamraju, founder of Kiasma Studio, contributed her expertise and suggested, “An effective approach is to incorporate natural light. Large windows and glass doors can create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, inviting sunlight to brighten rooms while providing breathtaking views of nature. Additionally, strategically placed mirrors can reflect natural light, enhancing the feeling of openness and warmth. Plants play a crucial role in this integration. Houseplants like ferns, succulents and snake plants not only purify the air but also add a vibrant touch of green.”
She further recommended: “Vertical gardens and living walls offer innovative solutions for small spaces, allowing residents to enjoy the beauty of nature without sacrificing valuable floor space.” Natural materials further strengthen the connection to nature. The use of wood, stone and organic textiles in furniture and decor creates an earthy, earthy atmosphere. Color palettes inspired by nature – soft greens, deep browns and sky blues – can evoke the tranquility of the great outdoors.”
Natural aesthetics meets modern living:
As urbanization increases and high-rise living becomes the norm, the connection to nature becomes increasingly elusive. However, experts in the field of landscape architecture are finding creative ways to reintroduce natural elements into urban homes.
Architect Prajakta Chakravarty, design mentor of VK Group's landscape team in Pune, said, “Land, water and vegetation – the core elements of landscape design – create self-sufficient ecosystems in themselves. While traditional homes once featured courtyards and porches that seamlessly connected indoor and outdoor spaces, modern high-rise living requires new solutions to maintain that connection. Terraces and balcony gardens “bring people down to earth” when they can no longer live near it.”
She advised: “Houseplants, green walls and moss frames are practical ways to bring nature back into our homes and offices.” Edible and herb gardens, along with features such as aquariums, fish ponds and terrariums, provide compact, self-sustaining ecosystems. These small but impactful additions not only provide visual delight, but also a sense of calm and well-being, encouraging a new connection with nature in modern city life. Fairy gardens on balconies are a unique concept that can be implemented using succulents to create vibrant, low-maintenance environments. These miniature gardens provide warmth and joy for children while providing a safe, supervised space.”
Prajakta Chakravarty concluded, “Integrating these playful gardens with podium gardens creates an 'infinity effect' that expands the visual landscape and enhances the experience of outdoor living.” Additionally, the sensory impact of integrating water features and wind chimes can appeal to all five senses and Transform interior spaces into quiet retreats. By using natural materials such as succulents, moss, stones and wood, these arrangements not only enhance the aesthetic but also bring a sense of whimsy and creativity to homes.”