A Short Guide to Merging Indoor and Outdoor Spaces
Why the traditional divide between indoor and outdoor spaces? Some point to architectural trends from the Victorian era. Homeowners of the era demonstrated their wealth by creating manors and houses as fortresses distinct from the masses, while outdoor areas were viewed as common spaces – for commoners.
That mentality is starting to shift, though, thanks in part to design trends from American (Organic Architecture), Northern Europe (the Naturhus movement), Japan and elsewhere in the world. Now, merging indoor and outdoor spaces is trendy. It’s a way for a homeowner to situate their house in its natural environment and benefit from the comforting elements of the natural world.
In this article, let’s explore the concept of merging your indoor and outdoor spaces. Why should you give it a try? And what are some tips for achieving this indoor-outdoor connection?
Why Create Indoor-Outdoor Flow?
There are several reasons to create an indoor-outdoor flow. For starters, adherents to this home décor and architecture philosophy believe it creates better harmony with nature. When you blur the lines between the domestic sphere and the natural world, you feel more connected with nature.
Secondly, merging your indoor and outdoor spaces has practical benefits. The project often involves adding more (or larger) windows, allowing more natural light and fresh air. Natural light facilitates the production of vitamin D (an all-around health superstar), and fresh air helps revitalize the body and calm the mind. New windows from a quality window and door manufacturer in Kitchener can also make your home more energy-efficient, saving you money on your monthly energy bill.
Finally, connecting your indoor and outdoor spaces makes hosting easier. If you’re a homeowner who likes to entertain, you will find that making your outdoor spaces more accessible can significantly improve dinner parties, social events and family gatherings.
How to Merge Your Indoor and Outdoor Spaces
There are a few ways to achieve a seamless indoor-outdoor flow. As mentioned, you can install replacement windows that maximize natural light and fresh air. Popular replacements include floor-to-ceiling picture windows and double sliding patio doors.
You can also try what’s called “mirroring greenery.” Essentially, you choose the same (or similar) plants outside and inside – often on either side of an access point like your patio doors. Choosing the same plants inside and outside helps create a sense of continuity. In the same vein, you can also consider levelling your back patio so that it meets flush with your interior floors.
The goal with any indoor-outdoor merging project is to make your back patio (or, less commonly, your front yard) an extension of your home. Choose similar colour patterns, similar plants, a similar grade, and try your best to capture as much of the outside’s natural light and air as possible.
If you want your house to share a deeper connection to its natural surroundings, consider the simple home renovations and décor tips above. With luck, you will have a more tranquil, efficient and beautiful home when you finish.
