Of Martha Stewart’s many properties, her Maine estate, Skylands, has been catching our attention most recently. Stewart has been diligently documenting renovations to her sprawling Duncan Candler-designed home on her Instagram page, and the latest reveal is particularly impressive.
The home’s entryway has been given a facelift with the addition of large Japanese screens hanging high on the walls above wood paneling. The natural materials vibe is continued by the room’s stone floors and large plants on the elegant console, while candle-lit wall lights give the area an antique feel.
“Two beautiful 18th century Japanese folding screens were so artfully hung on two opposite walls high up in the two-story entry hall,” Stewart explains in the post’s caption. “I call it ‘bringing the outdoors in,’ which is a recurring theme in this graceful 1925 home.” It’s a master class in decorating with antiques.
According to experts, bringing artwork into a room is one of the best ways to play with existing color palettes while also introducing new hues and shapes into a space.
“Incorporate artwork and accessories that highlight neutral tones, but with a maximalist twist,” says designer Nina Lichtenstein. “Large-scale abstract paintings with splashes of white, taupe and gray, or a series of ceramics in various off-white tones can create a gallery-like feel.”
Stewart’s screens depict snow-white trees, while the background is a mix of tan and grey. The neutral palette of the artwork perfectly complements the soft colours in the entryway, while the large images create a focal point.
“Artworks that depict landscapes, plants, sunsets or wildlife can bring nature even more into your home,” Lichtenstein continues. “Such artworks can serve as strategic focal points and add visual interest to your walls.”
The concept of bringing nature into the home is beneficial for both aesthetic and psychological reasons, according to Stewart.
“Nature-inspired home decor has an enduring appeal and charm that transcends trends and seasons, bringing a sense of calm and balance to any living space,” explains Lichtenstein. “By incorporating elements of nature into your home, you create an environment that not only looks beautiful, but also promotes well-being and serenity.”
Incorporating houseplants into a room automatically helps purify the air and calm the mind, while organic details like the stone doorstop and stone flooring bring images of natural landscapes into the home.
Lichtenstein recommends that anyone looking for a unique interpretation of nature-inspired decor should work with artisans who create one-of-a-kind, long-lasting pieces for their home.
“Working with artisans to create custom furniture and accents can elevate your nature-inspired decor,” explains Lichtenstein. “Whether it’s a handcrafted dining table made from local wood or custom ceramics with natural textures and colors, these items add a unique, personal element to your home. Custom creations not only enhance aesthetics, but also tell a story that reflects your personality and connection to nature.”
This vintage Japanese room divider features a magnificent piece of art depicting a nature scene.
This robust stone bowl can serve as an all-purpose bowl in the entrance area and is also an eye-catcher.
This handmade vase would look fantastic with some delicate dried flowers.
We recommend starting with subtle touches of nature in the home, whether it’s a stone doorstop like Stewart’s or just a freshly cut bouquet of flowers. A mix of nature-inspired items and accessories straight from nature will add that special something to your home.
