As the days lengthen and the warmth of spring is closer, our thoughts naturally turn to the outdoors. At Elan Design, we believe that neuroaesthetic principles so not stop at your doorstep. Your outdoor spaces, patios, decks, and terraces are extensions of your home, offering a unique opportunity to connect with nature to increase your livable areas and enhance your well-being.
Just as we meticulously craft indoor environments, we apply the same scientific understanding of how design impacts the brain and nervous system to your outdoor living areas. We ensure that your outdoor space seamlessly integrates with your indoor design, creating a harmonious flow between the two. This involves considering sightlines, materials, and color palettes that complement the interiors of your home.
Neuroaesthetics out in the Open Air
Connection with Nature
We understand the profound impact of biophilic design, and our human need to have a connection with nature. It's important to experience composed spaces that offer a calming effect. A winding pathway will give a sense of curiosity, especially if the destination is met with a reward at the end. Having a beautiful sculpture or clay pot at the end of a walkway creates a feeling of fascination. Incorporating these natural materials, harken back to our ancestry. A flower bed composed with a combination of in-ground and potted plantings in handcrafted pottery offer a balanced sense of calm and fascination that regulates the nervous system.
Towels and throw blankets made of all natural fibers promote the connection with the earth. Water elements foster a sense of tranquility and connection to the environment. Birdsong has been scientifically proven to elevate a sense of peace the most of all sounds. Attracting different varieties of birds to your outdoor spaces may produce an unexpected symphony that is sure to strengthen your connection with nature.
Lighting for Mood and Function
The main job of natural light for a human is to regulate our circadian rhythm. As much as we prioritize natural lighting in the home, we are also very conscious of the sun's path throughout the day and into the evening when designing outdoor areas. On a recent project, we were going to incorporate an oversized cantilever umbrella on a large open deck.... that is until we saw the natural shade from the house! Being mindful of the balance of light and shade allows the person to have a clear view o the sky, which is another instinct we humans have.
We often play with shadows in bring the outdoors inside. Diffused light, like the prism of a crystal, soft afternoon sun rays coming in the window, and the dancing shadows of a tree on the bathroom floor all bringing this sense of nature inside. Think of incorporating these concepts into your outdoor environments.
As the sun retires for the evening, gathering around a fire takes us back thousands of years when this was a regular routine. Fire tables create a focal point and promote warmth. We can also achieve this campfire ambiance with contemporary selections of outdoor lighting. There are many rechargeable options from which to choose! We strategically layer lighting to enhance relaxation, promote social interaction, and highlight the beauty of your landscape. Think soft, warm lighting for intimate gatherings. Focused lighting provide direction like Bollard and pathway lights for walkways. Focused lighting also guides your attention to architectural features you may want to highlight in your outdoor spaces.
Furniture Selection for Comfort and Connection
We select outdoor furniture that not only complements your design aesthetic but also prioritizes comfort, durability, and social connection. Your outdoor space is a natural gathering place. We consider seating arrangements that encourage conversation, create a sense of intimacy, and provide a welcoming atmosphere for your family and friends.
Outdoor kitchens and TVs are great to have a bite and a beverage to catch up on the latest game or host movie night in fresh air. In the same way we want to bring homeyness from the inside out, we create the
same ease of motion to tasks you may want to enjoy outside. Nothing says summer Saturday morning like alfresco breakfast on the deck. Make thoughtful decisions about storage for natural items like placemats and napkins that are easily accessible to set a quick table for family and friends.
Consider dining table made from natural stone, or incorporating a marble slab on a feature wall. The seating furniture we source runs the gamut from traditional outdoor looking patio sets to furniture made from boat rope or sieke wood from the Amazon that withstands the elements with ease. Some of the chairs we've used look like they're from your living room. Our outdoor pillows are sources from the leading supplier of outdoor pillows. Their comfort and durability are second to none.
Contact us today to create an outdoor area that will make you want to sit outside.
With the weather warming up, now is the perfect time to begin planning your outdoor square footage. As lead times on quality furniture and fabrics can extend for several weeks, we want to encourage you to act quickly.
Set up a Room Reading: Let us assess your outdoor space and provide personalized recommendations for creating a restorative and inviting environment. Schedule a Room Reading
Consult with us for Full-Service Design: Allow us to handle every aspect of your outdoor design, from concept to completion, ensuring a seamless and transformative experience. Get started with a complementary 20-min Discovery Call
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