4 Benefits of Using Natural Materials in the Home

When it comes to decorating our homes, we often focus on aesthetics and functionality. However, an often overlooked aspect is the importance of bringing in the natural world.

From plants and wood to ceramics and linen, using natural materials in homewares has numerous benefits for both the environment and our own well-being. 

So, why should you incorporate more natural elements into your home? Let us explain…

Natural pieces elevate the look of your home

Let’s be honest, natural materials look good. Of course, it all depends on your taste, but if you’ve a leaning towards all things shabby chic, you’ll already know how wood and rattan items give your home a rustic, warm and homely atmosphere.

Homelier perhaps than plastic and metal pieces.

Similarly, ceramics – derived from the earth – bring a natural beauty to a space.

Additionally, exposing the original elements of a natural material – such as the wood grain – can actually enhance a piece. Whereas, on a synthetic item, this might be seen as a defect.

They improve your overall well-being

Countless studies have proved that nature is the antidote to stress. But exposure to nature doesn’t just come from walks in the woods (although do that, too).

Bringing nature into your home – whether it’s with a terracotta vase, a pine wood console table or an acacia chopping board – decreases your stress levels and improves your cognitive function.

As MUJI explains, ‘environments that are exposed to wooden elements can have an immediate calming effect on a human being.’

Plants, of course, are important too. But as we’ve discussed before, faux flowers and plants can still have the same positive effects as the real thing. 

What’s more, being natural, wood and ceramic items don’t emit harmful toxins into the air like some synthetic materials can.

Natural (generally) equals environmentally friendly

Ceramics come from the earth; they are manufactured using natural, raw materials (clay).

Although they can take time to break down into smaller particles, they do eventually. And they do so without releasing toxic gases (unlike synthetic materials). 

Wood is a renewable resource, meaning that it can be replenished through responsible forestry practices. Using wooden homewares instead of plastic or metal alternatives can help reduce our reliance on non-renewable resources.

To stay sustainable, consider our range of recycled pine wood furniture. Our white-washed side tables and fretwork coffee tables are perfect for creating the ultimate relaxed and rustic living space. 

Natural also (usually) equals durability

There’s a good reason ceramics have been made and used by people for millennia. Strong, durable and heat-resistant, ceramic kitchenware is often the best you can get. 

Unlike plastic or other synthetic materials, wooden and ceramic homewares can last for years and even decades with proper care. (To extend the life of your wooden chopping board, make sure you read our dos and don’t guide here.)

And natural materials actually improve with age. For example, scratches or chips on a shabby chic wooden table simply adds to its charm. I

t’s difficult to say the same about one made from plastic or metal.

. . .

Whatever your interior style, we recommend trying to incorporate natural elements where you can. And then sit back and notice its impact…