Bringing the Outdoors In: How to Incorporate Nature-Inspired Blankets and Textiles

There’s something deeply calming about the natural world—a feeling that can be hard to capture indoors but is worth every effort. This is the principle behind biophilic design, a philosophy that is based on the idea that humans are drawn to nature and that spending time in nature is good for us. Studies have linked this precious connection to a reduction blood pressure, lift in our mood, and increased cognitive function. 

Sonorous Love harnesses nature as a beautiful way to bring the essence of the outdoors into your home. The texture of woven cotton fibers in our unique, artist designed blankets recall patterns inspired by pollinators, flowers, landscapes, and earthy color palettes; their stories are woven to add warmth and a sense of harmony that reminds us of our connection to the world around us.

Here’s how you can thoughtfully incorporate textiles into your decor in ways that are both intentional and inspiring:

1. Choose Colors that Evoke Nature’s Tones

Color is one of the most impactful ways to bring nature's feeling indoors. Think of soft greens that remind you of a coveted hike through lush forests, the warmth of the sun in a terracotta painted desert, or deep blues and colorful fish darting through the vast ocean on a snorkeling adventure - you may also be drawn to bright colors found on parrots and amphibians in the Rainforest.

These colors aren’t just visually pleasing—they also carry a sense of peace and grounding. When selecting nature-inspired textiles, look for tones that resonate with you on a personal level and conjure deep-rooted memories of place. If you find tranquility in coastal scenes, try shades of seafoam green, sandy beige, and driftwood gray with a burst of sunset orange. For those drawn to the forest, consider deep emeralds, rich browns, and soft moss greens amidst a wild rose or blue found in native flowers. Each color palette tells its own story, so choose hues that not only match your decor but also the feeling you want to bring into your space.

2. Consider Tone and Texture for a Natural Feel

Nature isn’t just about color; it’s about texture and tone. Textiles inspired by the outdoors often have a tactile element that mimics organic materials. Woven cotton throws, for instance, bring warmth and texture to a space, inviting you to touch and admire its crafted creation. Linen, with its raw and light feel, reflects the simplicity and rugged beauty of the natural world like a prairie in the wind. Consider mixing different textures—pair a soft woven blanket with a jute rug or a linen pillow with a velvety one. These contrasts not only add visual interest but also echo the diversity found in natural landscapes. 

3. Select Prints and Images that Tell a Story

Prints are more than patterns; they’re stories depicted on or woven into fabric. Whether it’s a blanket featuring a delicate floral design or a bold majestic forest, each image has a story to tell. This could be a place or a pattern that resonates with you—perhaps you’re drawn to reflective landscapes like one you loved to explore as a child. Think of prairie wildflowers, waxy desert leaves, or a mountain scene blanketed in the rich colors of autumn. If you’re an admirer of wildlife, look for textiles featuring your favorite animals or plants that hold sacred and special meaning. Sonorous Love chooses to call attention to endangered species and native pollinators. These choices not only link your personality to your decor but also make a statement about your values and connection to the outdoors and our connection to nature. When you select pieces with a meaningful story, you’re not just decorating—you’re bringing purpose and connection into your space, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

4. Mind the Print Size for Balanced Spaces

The scale of a print can dramatically changes the look and feel of a space. Larger prints create a focal point and add energy, making them ideal for statement pieces like blankets, curtains, rugs or wall hangings. Smaller prints, on the other hand, bring a subtle, intricate touch that works well in texture rich, minimal spaces or for pillows and smaller decor items. Consider the balance in your space—if you have a minimalist room, a bold, nature-inspired throw with a large pattern might be just the touch it needs. In a busier room, a more delicate print will add depth without overwhelming the space. The key is to find harmony between bold and soft, big and small, just as you would in a natural setting.

5. Practical Uses that Add Functionality and Style

Versatile and functional, a woven throw blanket can add a layer of warmth and texture to your living room sofa and bedcover or be draped over a chair to create a cozy reading nook. Create ambiance by hanging textiles or rugs on your wall, or even as a room divider. Printed and woven pillows can brighten up a bedroom. Even smaller pieces, like table runners or wall hangings, can infuse a room with the serenity and beauty of nature or tell a story of cultural ties to our world. These textiles are designed to be enjoyed and used, bringing a daily reminder of our true surroundings.

Bringing It All Together

Incorporating nature-inspired textiles into your home isn’t just about decor—it’s about creating an environment that reflects who you are and your connection to the earth. Each color, texture, and print choice invites a sense of calm, grounding, and inspiration. By mindfully selecting pieces that resonate with you, you’re bringing more than aesthetic appeal into your space. You’re cultivating a space that honors the natural world and supports a lifestyle rooted in mindfulness, sustainability, and purpose.

Let your home be a reflection of the world outside—a place where beauty, craftsmanship, and care for the earth come together in harmony. Nature-inspired textiles are more than decor; they’re an invitation to reconnect with what truly matters, every time you step through your door.

With Sonorous Love

Photo Credit in order from top to bottom: Jarrett Kow, Peng Chen, Henry Be