As humans, we want to be connected with nature and other living things such as people, animals, and plants because it makes us feel good. This longing for “connection” is called “biophilia”.
There are numerous ways that we could use Interior Design to get that connection for a happier, healthier home including using natural materials, plants, animals, color, art, scents, and lighting.
Some tips include”
Bringing the outdoors “in” through the use of design, strategic window placement, and use of colors that harmonize with the outdoor environment. Use your outdoor windows as indoor “art”.
Using the colors of nature in your home such as blues, greens, browns, off whites and grays since they are prominent in trees, shrubs, the sky and water.
Using color from your outdoor landscaping visible from your windows in your color scheme.
Using art that shows landscapes, plants, animals, or other natural elements.
Designing to make it easy to live with pets such as pet-friendly upholstery, washable rugs, etc.
Creating exterior landscapes that are visible through your windows and are beautiful, colorful, smell great, and attract wildlife.
This Edesign for a global style living and dining room is a nice example of how to apply some of these ideas.
Global Style Living Room by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design. Bring the Outdoors In.
In this design, the windows and beautiful views of the forest provide the perfect indoor “art” and create a focal point and color scheme for the design.
The color palette from this “art” or view includes greens, yellows, browns and blue from the sky which are incorporated in the furniture, pillows and wall color. Various shades of green are used to highlight the various shades outside. The area rug creates the illusion of flowing water.
The art shows a natural mountain landscape showing yellow birch trees similar to what is in the outdoor landscape.
The furnishings use pet friendly materials, and as you can see, makes it comfy cozy for pets such as the kitty on the chair.
The décor includes plants and flowers.
The furnishings and flooring are wood and include different wood types and colors for variety.
The window treatments allow in natural light and are simple in color and pattern to keep the focus on the outdoor view.
The lamps use the shape and pattern of a natural element (pineapple).
Global Style Living Room by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design. Bring the Outdoors In.
In the adjacent dining room, the forest theme continues.
In this room, the browns of the forest are highlighted in the wood of the chairs and table the area rug with various shades of brown on the wood floor and the art. The fractal art which I designed is part of my “Old Growth” series I developed because it reminds me of the colors and patterns of an old growth forest. Each frame is in a different wood tone.
Global Style Dining Room by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design. Bring the Outdoors In. Old Growth Old Growth #2 Old Growth #3
The greens in the chair cushions add a pop of color and harmonize with the outdoor view and the living room colors. The décor includes plants.
The wall color here and window treatments are neutral to keep the focus on the outdoor views and the art.
Overall, this design is simple, affordable to create using color, natural elements such as wood and plants and art that highlights nature. The overall feeling is one of serenity with a focus on the amazing forest views. The look of this room will change as the seasons change and the yellow from the fall foliage changes to green, but it will still look great.
Ready to Bring the Outside in To Your Home?
Need help with your home? Try my Aligned Design consultation or my Design Coach package.
Globally Inspired, Soulfully Aligned: The New Design Frontier
Globally Inspired Styles with the Soul of Aligned Design
I’ve always been inspired by global design styles — the way they gather beautiful stories, textures, and colors from around the world. Each piece, from the art to the decor, carries a story, inviting us to connect with different cultures and experiences, weaving a rich tapestry of meaning into our spaces.
In my philosophy of Aligned Design, we focus not just on beauty, but on creating environments that resonate deeply with who we are and what we value. Global style naturally supports this, helping us forge a connection — not only to the wider world but also to ourselves.
When we Connectthrough design, we invite a sense of unity, belonging, and soulful alignment into our homes. A space becomes more than just a place to live — it becomes a reflection of the beauty of the world and the peace within us.
This blending of global inspiration and inner resonance is, to me, a new design frontier — one that honors the world’s diversity while supporting our personal journey toward deeper connection and authenticity.
If you love global design styles, you’re in good company — I do too. There’s something magical about how they bring together beautiful stories, textures, and colors from all around the world. Every piece tells a story and adds a little soul to your space.
At the same time, Aligned Design is all about creating spaces that don’t just look good — they feel good. It’s about making sure your home reflects deeper values and feels true to who you are.
So how do these two come together? Global style helps you Connect— with the world, with different cultures, and most importantly, with yourself. It brings a sense of unity and meaning into your home, creating a space that’s as rich in spirit as it is in beauty.
It’s like giving your space a passport and a purpose — globally inspired, soulfully aligned.
“It’s Just the Moon #7” energy art and Edesign by Mary Ann Benoit of Northern Lights Home Staging and Design.
Connecting Globally Inspired Style and Aligned Design
“Heart of Morocco #2” energy art and Edesign by Mary Ann Benoit of Northern Lights Home Staging and Design.
There’s a natural connection between globally inspired design and Aligned Design. Styles from places like Morocco, Greece, Turkey, India, and Mexico — and the free-spirited vibe of Bohemian design — bring so much heart, color, and story into a space.
When you blend that with the idea of Aligned Design — creating spaces that feel as good as they look — you get something really special. Spaces that aren’t just beautiful, but full of meaning, soul, and connection. It’s a way of living that feels good inside and out.
The Beauty of Art
Globally inspired and Bohemian styles are all about weaving together rich stories from around the world. With their layers of color, texture, and soul, they create spaces that feel alive and full of meaning. Bohemian style, with its free-spirited, eclectic energy, adds a playful depth that fits beautifully with my Aligned Design philosophy — creating spaces that don’t just look good, but feel like home for your soul.
My energy art is designed to complement these styles — capturing the beauty and essence of Moroccan, Greek, Turkish, Indian, Mexican, and Bohemian influences. Each piece is layered with fractal energy art, helping you stay aligned with who you truly are and supporting your goals energetically.
In my Connect Through a Tapestry of Modern Global Styles collection, you’ll find art inspired by these rich traditions, each one infused with energy and meaning — a perfect way to connect to the world and yourself, through your space.
“Heart of Morocco” energy art by Mary Ann Benoit “Heart of Morocco #2” energy art by Mary Ann Benoit “Heart of Morocco #3” energy art by Mary Ann Benoit
The Science of Color
Color plays a huge role in how a space feels — and it’s a big part of my Aligned Design philosophy. The vibrant palettes of globally inspired and Bohemian styles naturally create a sense of harmony and energy.
Think of the calming blues and whites of Greek interiors, the rich patterns and warmth of Turkish and Bohemian textiles, or the joyful bursts of color in Indian and Mexican design. Each one tells a story — and when we use color with intention, it creates a space that feels alive and balanced.
That’s the same approach I take with my energy art. Every color is chosen with care to support alignment, well-being, and connection — so your space doesn’t just look beautiful, it feels like a reflection of your true self.
Indian Style Edesign and ernergy art by Mary Ann Benoit of Northern Lights Home Staging and Design. The Colors of Indian Design. “Heart of India” energy art by Mary Ann Benoit.
The Energy of Well Being
Every global style carries its own special energy. Greek interiors bring a sense of calm and serenity. Bohemian spaces celebrate creativity and freedom. Moroccan design adds a touch of the exotic, Turkish interiors wrap you in warmth, Indian decor radiates spirituality, and Mexican design bursts with life and joy.
Through Aligned Design, we tap into these beautiful energies and blend them with what you need to feel supported, balanced, and at home. My energy art brings it all together — combining the beauty and spirit of these styles with intentional energy that helps you align with your highest well-being.
Surround yourself with the energy that lifts you up — every single day.
Raven Medicine energy art and design by Mary Ann Benoit
Personal Reflection, Growth and Alignment
At its heart, Aligned Design is about creating spaces that reflect who you truly are and support you as you grow into who you’re meant to be.
Globally inspired styles, with their deep cultural roots, and the free-spirited nature of Bohemian design offer the perfect canvas. They give you room to create an environment that tells your story — a space that evolves with you, grows with you, and helps you stay connected to your personal journey.
Because when your space aligns with your soul, it becomes a powerful part of your transformation.
“Unveiling Time” energy art and Edesign by Mary Ann Benoit of Northern Lights Home Staging and Design.
Sustainability and Connection to Nature
Many global styles naturally focus on sustainability, and Bohemian design brings in its own love of upcycling and creative reuse. It all fits beautifully with Aligned Design’s eco-friendly approach — creating spaces that are not only good for you but good for the planet too.
Natural materials like Turkish textiles, Greek stonework, Indian silks, Mexican crafts, and the earthy charm of vintage Bohemian pieces help keep your space connected to nature. These elements don’t just look beautiful — they create a more harmonious energy that supports you, instead of working against you.
Bringing nature into your space can be simple and powerful. My energy art captures the spirit of flora, fauna, and the wisdom of Animal Medicine, adding layers of meaning and energy. Pair it with plants and natural elements in your decor, and you create a space that feels fresh, grounded, and alive — a true sanctuary for your soul.
In connecting to nature, we find a deeper connection to ourselves — calm, grounded, and alive.
Butterfly Medicine energy art and design by Mary Ann Benoit
The Results
At its core, the rich colors, stories, and patterns of global styles fit perfectly with the heart of Aligned Design. By combining art, science, and energy, we create spaces that aren’t just beautiful to look at — they lift your spirit and feel alive with meaning.
The result? Spaces that captivate the eye, uplift the heart, and resonate with the energy of who you truly are.
Ready to Create Your Globally Inspired Aligned Design?
Are you ready to take your home to a whole new level — one that not only looks beautiful but feels amazing and lifts you up to be your best self?
Imagine a space that’s tailored just for you — where every detail reflects your sense of beauty, the colors feel just right, and the energy supports your dreams. That’s what Aligned Design is all about. It’s the magic that happens when art, science, and energy come together to create a space that truly resonates with you.
Now picture fine-tuning your environment to boost your prosperity, well-being, love, and personal expression — all through thoughtful design and intentional energy. When your space is aligned, you’re aligned — and that’s when life starts flowing in beautiful ways.
Global style interior design plays a big part in this. It brings rich stories, soulful textures, and vibrant energy into your home — helping you create a space that’s not only beautiful but deeply, authentically you.
Get an Aligned Design consultation today and let’s see what’s possible!
Global styles capture the essence of your adventures across the world, weaving together a tapestry of your experiences and stories. Characterized by vibrant hues, they radiate with the boldness of designs inspired by various cultures, suffused with rich textures and patterns. Every item isn’t just a decor piece; it’s a narrative, sparking curiosity and conversations.
Instead of adhering to a strict theme, treasures find their place without being confined by their origin. It’s a harmonious chaos where antiques cozy up to contemporary pieces, and nature plays its part—be it through the rugged beauty of animal horns, the serene presence of plants, or the raw allure of stones.
Although the heart of global design revels in its eclectic nature—melding elements from myriad cultures—certain colors and cultural symbols might resonate more deeply with you, reflecting your unique journeys and preferences. This design approach isn’t about uniformity; it’s about personal expression, celebrating diversity, memories, and the beautiful mosaic of worldwide cultures.
Examples of Global Style
Global design styles are a treasure trove of cultural richness and diversity. Here are some of my favorite styles and why I like them.
Bohemian: Rooted in a free-spirited and unconventional ethos, the Bohemian style celebrates individuality. It’s marked by an eclectic mix of vibrant colors, mismatched patterns, and a blend of old and new. Common elements include macrame hangings, colorful textiles, and layered rugs.
Turkish: Turkish design radiates with opulence and intricate detailing. Think of ornate lanterns, sumptuous kilim rugs, and Iznik tiles with their intricate blue and red motifs. Brass and copperware, often with intricate engravings, are also hallmarks.
Moroccan: This style evokes the allure of a desert oasis. Key elements include geometric mosaics, lanterns, carved wooden pieces, and rich textiles in deep reds, oranges, and blues. Arched doorways and lush courtyards complete the look.
Mexican: Bursting with vivid colors, Mexican interiors draw from its indigenous cultures and Spanish colonial influences. Hand-painted Talavera tiles, rustic wooden furniture, and vibrant textiles are central, along with folk art pieces and pottery.
Greek: Greek design channels the serene beauty of the Mediterranean. Bright white and deep blue are dominant colors, reminiscent of the iconic Santorini landscapes. Elements include airy linens, hand-painted ceramics, and rustic wooden details.
Indian: Indian interiors are a tapestry of rich hues, intricate patterns, and spiritual motifs. Brass lamps, colorful silk textiles, carved wooden furniture, and ornamental mirrors are typical. The vibrant colors—saffron, turquoise, and fuchsia—are inspired by Indian festivals and landscapes.
A common thread that binds these styles is the emphasis on craftsmanship and the use of natural materials, making them perfect for eco-friendly and sustainable designs. The use of wool, silk, wood, bone, and stone, among others, underscores a deep connection to the earth and traditional artisanal practices.
So, which ones resonates with your personal experiences, aesthetic preferences, and the ambiance you want to create?
Each style has its unique charm, narrative, and essence. Which one feels like home to you? Which one ignites your wanderlust or brings back cherished memories?
Let’s Create Your Global Style Design
Are you ready to transform your home into a sanctuary that not only looks amazing but also uplifts and supports you? Imagine that.
Think about living in a space that truly reflects who you are. How does it make you feel?
My approach to interior design, called Aligned Design, revolves around three key elements: art, science, and energy. It’s at the intersection of these three where the magic happens.
Creating a space that embraces your unique sense of beauty, color, and energy while attracting positivity in the form of prosperity, well-being, love, and self-expression aligns you with the universe. This alignment empowers you to lead your best life and make a positive impact on the world.
Global-style interior design, a part of this creative journey, is something you’ll truly enjoy as we embark on creating a space that’s perfectly tailored to you.
6 Eco-Friendly Ideas for Your Next Home Remodeling Project
Whether you’re committed to reducing your carbon footprint or simply want a safe, healthy home for your family, eco-friendly remodeling is a smart choice. Eco-friendly home improvements save money and energy, and limit the amount of harmful toxins that enter your home. Eco-friendly homes also command a premium when it’s time to sell; according to the Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance, energy-efficient homes net 3.5% to 9% more per square foot than typical homes.
As you plan your next remodel, consider investing in one of these eco-friendly home improvements.
Increase natural light
There’s a reason people are drawn to homes flooded with natural light. Sunlight is energizing and uplifting, but you don’t have to go outdoors to enjoy its benefits. Increasing natural light in the home brings the sun indoors and decreases electricity usage, especially in high-traffic areas like kitchens and living rooms.
There are a few ways to bring more natural light into your home, including adding skylights or solar tubes, replacing solid doors with glass, or installing new windows. Talk to an architect to make the best choice for your home’s design.
Replace old carpet with green flooring
Carpeting is inexpensive, but those short-term cost savings can lead to long-term consequences. Synthetic carpet releases volatile organic compounds that harm air quality and human health. Synthetic carpeting also won’t biodegrade when it’s eventually thrown away. Natural materials like hardwood, bamboo, cork, and stone or ceramic tile are better flooring options for an eco- and human-friendly home. If you can’t give up the feel of carpet underfoot, choose materials certified with the Green Label or Green Plus Label from the Carpet and Rug Institute.
Redecorate with low-VOC paint
Paint is another big contributor to VOCs in the home. The next time you want to refresh a room’s look, choose a zero-VOC paint like Bioshield or Sherwin-Williams’ Harmony line.
Upgrade to energy-efficient windows
When you’re remodeling to save money and energy, nothing sucks energy worse than old, drafty windows. Upgrading to double-pane windows can save homeowners $126 to $465 a year in energy costs, and springing for energy-efficient windows adds another $27-$111 in yearly savings. In addition to keeping drafts out, energy-efficient windows have coatings that block the sun’s ultraviolet rays, protecting your stuff — and you — from sun damage.
Add an energy-efficient laundry room
Laundry rooms increasingly top buyers’ list of most-wanted home features. Turn a corner of the basement into a laundry room, or stack a washer and dryer in a first-floor cabinet for easy access. Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances in the process, choosing an ENERGY STAR washer and dryer to save money on your monthly utility bills.
Install a tankless water heater
Your hot water heater is the unsung hero of your home, providing hot water for baths, dishes, and laundry at a moment’s notice. It’s also one of the biggest energy users. Switching to a tankless water heater can reduce energy consumption 8-34% depending on how much water your family uses, leading to about $100 in annual savings. Not only that, but you’ll never have to worry about running out of hot water again.
Keep in mind that tankless water heaters have lower flow rates than traditional water heaters. As a result, you may need to install multiple tankless water heaters to ensure adequate pressure.
Don’t Forget Your Furnishings and Accessories
You can use eco-friendly Interior Design to include eco-friendly furnishings and accessories in your home. See the article, “Eco-Friendly Interior Design– Why it Matters” by Mary Ann Benoit of Northern Lights Home Staging and Design to learn more.
Eco-friendly home upgrades can seem expensive upfront. However, these home improvements pay for themselves over time. Not only do homeowners save on monthly energy bills, they also get to cash in on the high demand for energy-efficient homes when they sell. Instead of shying away from green remodeling, invest in eco-friendly upgrades the next time you renovate.
Written by guest blogger Ray Flynn of the DiyGuys.net. When he’s not working as a civil engineer, Ray Flynn spends his time dreaming up new DIY projects that promote green living. He created his own website, where you can visit him at diyguys.net.
Need Eco-Friendly Design Help for your next project?
Our intrinsic desire to connect with nature and living entities is encapsulated in the term “biophilia.” Coined initially by Erich Fromm and later popularized by Edward O. Wilson, this concept has found a renewed emphasis in contemporary interior design.
Throughout history, our bond with nature has been pivotal, not only for sustenance and survival but also for spiritual rejuvenation and inspiration. Nature, in all its splendor, offers a plethora of colors, shapes, patterns, and textures that have always intrigued our aesthetic senses. Beyond the visual delight, nature nourishes our well-being. Plants, for instance, not only beautify our spaces but purify our air and offer sensory pleasures. Similarly, our reverence for animals can be traced back through art, religion, and their cherished presence in our lives as companions.
My personal journey as a wildlife biologist for 33 years, trekking the terrains of Arizona and Alaska, deepened my appreciation for nature’s designs. Be it the intricate patterns of plant parts under a microscope or the harmonious color schemes, I’ve often been inspired by nature’s unparalleled creativity.
In an ever-evolving technological world, the essence of biophilia reminds us of the solace nature provides. So, the question is, how can we bring this comforting connection to nature into our homes through interior design?
Design by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design
Natural Materials
Opt for eco-friendly and sustainable materials in both your construction and interior design choices. Discover more in my article on Eco-Friendly Interior Design. Embrace nature by integrating unique finds from your outdoor excursions – think branches, rocks, or shells – into your home decor. Elevate your space with indoor plants that not only beautify but also purify. Enhance your home’s synergy with the outdoors by strategically landscaping visible from your interiors. Design outdoor sanctuaries that beckon you outside. Seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor spaces with design choices and window placements that frame nature as living art.
Office Edesign and energy art by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design.
Plants
Incorporate native plants in your garden to not only attract local wildlife but also ensure sustainability. These indigenous species are tailored to thrive in local conditions, ensuring they’re resilient and eco-friendly by preventing the spread of invasive species that could harm native ecosystems. On my Alaskan adventures, I’ve handpicked native perennials like wild roses, blueberries, and geraniums, which beautify my garden, attract wildlife, and even offer delicious treats. Indoors, adorn your space with houseplants that enhance aesthetics and purify the air. Choose flowering varieties for a burst of vibrant color!
Animals
For many, including me, a home feels incomplete without the affection of a pet. Their presence greatly enhances our overall well-being. When designing interiors, consider pet-friendly choices that not only facilitate but celebrate life with animals. Opt for durable upholstery and washable rugs to minimize pet-related wear and tear, reducing any stress that may come with adding a furry friend. Moreover, cultivate an outdoor space that’s both visually pleasing and teeming with life. Plant flora that captivates the senses and invites wildlife. Thoughtfully positioned plants near windows can provide natural ‘entertainment’, as you watch birds, butterflies, and pollinators drawn to your garden.
Living with pets feels great and can be easy with the right design elements. Photo from Unsplash.
Color
Incorporate nature’s hues into your home’s interior and exterior. As a certified color strategist, I’ve often drawn inspiration from the landscaping colors of clients’ gardens, converting them into paint shades for walls, front doors, or interior palettes. Think of the calming blues of the sky, lush greens, earthy browns, muted grays, and soft off-whites. Highlight with vibrant shades inspired by garden blossoms in pinks, purples, yellows, and reds or the autumnal tones of foliage like golds and oranges. While stark black and pure white are rare in nature, they can accentuate and uplift these natural shades. And remember, if a color dominates your view—even from a neighboring property—it’s worth integrating into your decor palette.
In this home the color of the front door was created from measuring the colors of the roses in front of the house. The home is adjacent to the ocean, so the exterior color and metal art of sea gulls connects it to the surroundings. Color palette by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design.
Art
Get great photos of your outdoor adventures that evoke the feeling you had while you were there for art.
Consider art that shows landscapes, plants, animals or other natural elements that bring you joy and work with your design and color palette.
Incorporate energy art that connects energetically and spiritually to nature.
Office Edesign and energy art by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design. Office Edesign and energy art by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design.
Scents
Scents can have a huge impact on the way you feel.
Try a diffuser with natural oils of lavender, orange or other scents related to herbs or fruits to make the connection through smell.
Flowering plants add a beautiful scent to your indoor space.
Avoid products that emit harmful odors.
Lighting
Use full spectrum bulbs to get the quality of natural daylight, especially in northern climates where light can be very limited in the winter. Living in Alaska, I can personally attest that they work and affect your mood.
Lots of strategically placed windows provides an abundance of natural light.
Edesign and energy art by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design.
Get the Look and Feel Good
Even amidst urban sprawl, it’s entirely possible to forge a natural sanctuary in your living space. Let’s explore how I transformed rooms with views of nothing but an adjacent brick building into rejuvenating havens. By leveraging earthy tones like greens, blues, and browns, incorporating artwork showcasing flora and fauna, and introducing real plants, I managed to evoke a “feel-good” ambiance that resonates with the calming embrace of nature.
Design by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design.
We spend more time in our homes in general than we do anywhere else. Why not make it feel great with some of these tips! If you need help with your design, check out my local and online Design and Color Services.
One way to stay connected to the outdoors is by bringing the changing colors of the outside in.
Humans want to be connected with nature and other living things. This longing for “connection” is called “biophilia”.
We have always been connected to nature, for survival, sustenance, spiritual renewal, and inspiration. Mother nature provides an endless abundance of beautiful color palettes, shapes, patterns, and textures to inspire us, our health and wellbeing, and our interior environments,
Feeling “connected” makes us feel good. One way to get that connection and those good feelings are to change the colors in our interior environment to reflect what is happening outside so there is an energy flow between the outdoors and indoors.
Three Reasons to Change Your Decor in the Fall. Photo by Omid Armin on Unsplash.
If you have considered the colors of your exterior view and outdoor landscaping in your Interior Design, you likely have a change of colors happening in the fall.
So the colors of fall may be different for everyone based on your location. Play with the colors you see outside your windows:)
While fall colors are typically shown as reds, yellows, oranges, browns and deep greens, the colors in your area may be different.
For example, I grew up in the northeast and always thought of fall as having the beautiful reds of the maple leaves as they changed. Now that I live in Alaska, we have very few trees that turn red. It is mainly low ground plants that turn a deeper, darker red than the maples. Yet, we have a glorious gold color that many of the birches and cottonwoods turn that I did not see on the east coast.
Bring the colors in by changing your accent pillows, rug, art, or accessories. Work with things that are easy to change because you may want to change things in other seasons as well.
Get outside, collect cool objects from your outdoor adventures to decorate your home including branches, rocks, shells, gourds, grasses, and more.
Use of colors that harmonize with the outdoor environment. Use your outdoor windows as indoor “art”.
Get indoor plants to provide a variety of colors, textures and improve your indoor air quality. Flowering plants are a special treat to add pops of color!
Three Reasons to Change Your Decor in the Fall. Photo by Joseph Gonzalez on Unsplash
Use the colors of nature in your home, inside and out. As a certified color strategist, I often measure some of the colors from clients’ landscaping (shrubs, flowers, trees) and translate that to paint colors for exterior walls, front doors, or interior paint palettes.
Blues, greens, browns, off whites and grays, are great natural colors to try to bring the outdoors in since they are prominent in trees, shrubs, the sky, and water.
Find pops of color from some of your colorful outdoor landscaping such as the fall colors of your trees, shrubs, or ground covers (golds, reds, oranges). Black and pure white are not often found in nature but can be great colors to add to make the others stand out in all their glory. If it is a prominent color you can see from your windows, even if it is from an adjacent property, consider tying it into your color scheme.
hree Reasons to Change Your Decor in the Fall. Photo by Jeffery Cullman on Unsplash.
Even if you live in the middle of a city, you can follow some of these guidelines to create a space that feels good and gives a sense of being more connected to nature.
2. Change your Interior to go with the feeling of the season for you.
Fall feels different than spring, summer or winter. Biologically, it is the time we reap the harvest of our labors, prepare for the winter ahead and get ready to conserve our energy.
In the fall I want to relax after working hard in the summer. I feel like snuggling up and reading, enjoying a fire, taking a nap, stocking up for winter, making soup, putting the garden to bed, and slowing down. I bring out the fluffy blankets, enjoy the first fires in the fireplace, and more. I’m like my cat who moves from enjoying naps on the cool, hard floor to laying on the fluffy blanket on my bed in the fall.
Three Reasons to Change Your Decor in the Fall. Photo by David Lezcano on Unsplash.
I want to surround myself with warmer colors, fabrics, and softer textures than I did in the summer. My decor becomes more cozy and intimate. These things would not feel right in the summer.
Three Reasons to Change Your Decor in the Fall. Photo by svitlana on Unsplash.
So, I adapt my decor to match how I am feeling energetically at this time of the year, and in doing so, I feel more comfortable and enjoy my space more.
Create Connection During the Holidays.
Fall is filled with holidays to celebrate and decorate for including Halloween, Thanksgiving, Autumn Equinox, Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, Octoberfest, Columbus Day, and more.
There are lots of ideas for decorating for different holidays online or you can create your own traditions. The main point is to create a special atmosphere to celebrate and connect with friends and family that is beautiful and comfortable.
Three Reasons to Change Your Decor in the Fall. Photo by Davies Designs Studio on Unsplash
Create Your Perfect Space for Fall
Here is an example of a beautiful living room Edesign I created to highlight fall decor. For me, fall is a time of darker and brighter reds of the shrubs and ground plants, mixed with browns and greens of the forest, charcoal of the rocks on the mountain tops with a light dusting of snow, with snow, golds, yellow and oranges of the hardwood trees. I love a nice fire, a soft rug under my feet and an intimate get together with friends, wine and cheese.
Three Reasons to Change Your Decor in the Fall. Photo by Mike Scheid- on Unsplash.
For this design, I used pieces because I was drawn to the colors and textures that evoke a feeling of fall to me. The design primarily used pieced from Arhaus. I also appreciate the natural, eco-friendly materials, the handmade artistry of some of the pieces, and the cultural elements I am drawn to when creating global-style designs.
Three Reasons to Change Your Decor in the Fall. Edesign by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design. Three Reasons to Change Your Decor in the Fall. Edesign by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design. Three Reasons to Change Your Decor in the Fall. Edesign by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design.
Try Energy Art that Evokes a Feeling of Fall
Here are a some fractal energy art pieces I created that I think evoke a feeling of fall that are available in wall art, pillows and other home decor. The energy message for each piece and how it an help you is listed in the caption.
The balance of night and dark, giving and receiving, feminine and masculine. Where do you need to create balance in your life? Now is the time.
Change is the only thing you can be sure will happen. Sometimes change comes quickly and dramatically. You can control how you respond. When change is coming you can also influence the outcome rather than waiting for it to happen to you. Change can make everything better….if you allow it. Is it time to regenerate and renew the parts of yourself that need repair, or just need to be let go? Why hold on to what does not serve you or make you happy? Who are you becoming? Is it who you truly are or a version of yourself that society says you should be? Are you guided by your intuition or stories handed down by others of how things are or should be? What stories will you release today? Create new ones that benefit you.
Are You Ready to Create Your Perfect Space?
Are you ready to create your perfect space? Let’s tell your unique story and find the alignment of art, science, and energy that makes you happy. Try my Aligned Design consultation and let’s get started.
Does the magic of lighting makes your heart sing? Do you love rich color, textured fabrics and natural materials? Your global design style may be Moroccan!
What is a Global Design Style?
Global styles are all about your worldly adventures and telling your story! They are usually very colorful, rich in bold designs and natural textures, patterns, colors and arts and crafts of various cultures. Each piece has a story and becomes a conversation starter. Treasures are displayed without rules or grouping by the part of the world each piece is from. Antiques mix with modern pieces, and natural objects such as animal horns, plants and rocks add to the charm. While global design styles are eclectic and may mix and match items from a variety of countries, you may be drawn to the colors and cultural artifacts of some countries more than others.
What is Moroccan Style?
Moroccan design is filled with intricate carvings, arched doorways, beautiful tilework and vibrant colorful textured fabrics, baskets and accessories. Beautiful Intricate metal lanterns and pendant lights create amazing and magical patterns of light in your room. Mosaic and ceramic sinks create luxurious bathrooms
Moroccan homes use bright colors, such as red, blue, orange, turquoise, pale ocean blues and green mixed with gold. Interiors are filled with carved furniture pieces, poufs, floor cushions, textured vases, exotic figurines, Moroccan-inspired Berber, Kilim and Azilal tribal rugs, metallic details and natural elements, such as wood and stone.
Designs reflect the diverse culture of Arabs, Berbers, Europeans and African immigrants.
Here is an example of an eco-friendly Edesign I did for a Moroccan style living room, highlighting traditional Moroccan pieces mixed with modern elements such as mixed metals and furnishings.
Edesign of a Moroccan Living Room featuring a Kilim rug from Atlas Weavers. Edesign by Mary Ann Benoit of Northern Lights Home Staging and Design.
Concept Board
Here are some of the products and finishes I used for this design. Some products may contain affiliate links meaning I may receive a small commission if you purchase something at no additional cost to you.
Moroccan Style Living Room Concept Board by Northern Lights Home Staging and Design.
Inspiration and Products
The inspiration and color scheme for this design came from this gorgeous Moroccan Kilim rug from Atlas Weavers. Kilim Rugs are tapestry weaves that date back to the fourth century and have a flat weave as well as bold designs and colors. They are made with natural dyes. Usually made of wool, they are not only beautiful, they are eco-friendly. A great piece of art for your floor that can last a lifetime or more. And you can get 20% off this or any other rug or non-sale item by using the code “Northern Lights” at check out!
Fine Moroccan Kilim – K8973from Atlas Weavers..Get 20% off this or any non-sale item by using the code “northern lights” at check-out!
I decided green would be a perfect third color to go with the beautiful brown and white of the rug to give the room a natural color scheme. I chose PPG’s color of the year, Night Watch for the walls and Sherwin Williams Alabaster for the trim. Other shades of deep green could also work well, as I mixed and matched various shades of green for variety in the furniture and pillows. Generally, all greens play nicely together.
Night Watch, PPG’s 2019 Color of the Year.
Furniture
This eco-friendly sofa by Medley Home Furniture is made with organic latex cushions and eco-wool pillows. Medley Furniture offers wonderful eco-friendly and sustainable furniture. And, you can get 5% off anything with code NLS5 at check-out.
Mota Sofa by Medley Furniture inBella Forest fabric. Get 5% off with code NLS5 at checkout. Eco-Friendly Mota Chair from Medley in Mariposa Lettuce fabric. Get 5% off with code NLS5 at checkout. Sloane Chaise by Interior Define
This simple but beautiful copper coffee table is made in Mexico, but I selected it to pull in an element of eco-friendly copper to enhance a modern element of mixed metals that ties nicely to the Moroccan art and lighting below.
Round Copenhagen Coffee Table by la Fuente
Art and Lighting
For art, I selected beautiful, authentic hand crafted mirrors, windows or doors from Morocco available at Berber Imports. Click on the link to Berber Imports to see all the following pieces. The center piece of art is an aged wrought iron window with traditional Moorish design in a carved cedar wood frame. It is flanked by two Moroccan mirrors, made from wood and beautifully decorated with hand carved white brass in the shape of old Moorish arches.
This gorgeous Moroccan door from Berber Imports is made from reclaimed cedar, all hand carved, with raised three dimensional brass carvings and with two tones of camel bones with an antique finish. It can be used as an indoor or outdoor door or just as a piece of art.
The elegant arch and the almoravids hand knockers give it a beautiful moorish touch!
n-Jima Moroccan Door from Berber Imports
Moroccan style often incorporated intricate lighting that creates absolute magic in a room! This hand hammered Moroccan Lamp from Berber Imports is made of traditional heavy fez brass in a modern style. Motifs are consistent with traditional jewelry design often used in a women’s mdamma or gold belt.
I adore these pillows from Bryar Wolf! Each is one of a kind. Local villagers harvest the leaves of the Sabra Cactus plant and loom the filaments into textural canvas with patterns of ancient motifs. Made with natural botanical pigments, each pillow cover gets its unique, burnished character from washing and drying under the Moroccan sun. And you can get 5% off everything at Bryar Wolf with code northernlightsstaging5 at check-out.
BIB cactus silk pillow. Get 5% off everything with code northernlightsstaging5 at check out.
This Bohenian Chic pillow adds a touch of white to go with the rug and adds and element of beautiful softness and texture.
POM POM AT HOME IMAN PILLOW from Lulu and Georgia
This white cotton pillow from the Citizenry is handwoven by artisans in Kerala India, and block printed by a master printer in Jaipur, each pillow can take up to 4 days to complete. Not from Morocco, but a beautiful design that adds to the global style of the whole.
This beautiful Moroccan Poof from Berber Imports is made from soft Moroccan leather.
This hour glass from World Market looks like a vintage piece and is made in India, not Morocco. I thought it would add a element of old world charm and would tie to the brass and other mixed metal accents.
These copper vases from the Citizenry are handcrafted in India by the artisans of Senapati. I selected this to mix different metal elements and harmonize wit with the copper table. Copper goes beautifully with all greens.
PASHAN COPPER VASES
Get Inspired
Follow me on Pinterest for daily inspiration on global style and eco-friendly design. Check out my board on Moroccan style for daily inspiration on this beautiful style!
Create your own Moroccan Oasis
Ready to create a Moroccan style room in your home? Check out my Online and Edesign services. I would love to help you. The project above was an example of Full Service Edesign. Learn more about what Edesign is and how it works in my article, How can I work with an Interior Designer on my budget. Learn more about Full Service Edesign and how it works here. Feel free to give me a call at 907-362-0065 to see if Edesign would be the best option for you!
What’s Your Global Design Style?
Are you curious about your global design style? Take the quiz and find out which style might be right for you.
