Bringing the Outdoors In: Styling with Indoor Plants and Natural Elements

There’s something undeniably calming about nature. The rustle of leaves, the scent of fresh herbs, the play of dappled light — it speaks to our need for connection, grounding, and peace. At Simply Hygge, we believe that embracing the outdoors within our homes is one of the most beautiful ways to create a space that nourishes and inspires.

This Sunday Styling guide is dedicated to the art of bringing the outdoors in, using indoor plants and natural materials to cultivate a serene, hygge-infused home environment.

The Power of Greenery

Indoor plants do more than just beautify a space — they purify the air, reduce stress, and create a feeling of vitality. Whether you're a seasoned plant parent or just beginning your journey, here are a few styling tips:

Hero Plant Placement

Choose a large leafy plant (like a Fiddle Leaf Fig, Monstera, or Rubber Plant) and give it a starring role in a room. Place it in a woven basket or neutral ceramic pot for an organic look.

Layering with Little Ones

Use smaller plants like pothos, peace lilies, or succulents to layer height and texture on bookshelves, bedside tables, and kitchen counters.

Group in Odd Numbers

Arrange plants in groups of 3 or 5, varying height and foliage types. It adds a natural rhythm and visual interest that mimics how plants grow in the wild.

Natural Textures & Materials

Styling with natural materials helps create a tactile, earthy feel — a perfect complement to hygge living.

Woven Elements

Think rattan chairs, jute rugs, seagrass baskets. These materials offer warmth and are sustainably stylish.

Stone & Clay Accents

Stoneware vases, terracotta pots, and handmade ceramics bring grounding energy and an artisan feel.

Wood Wonders

• Introduce untreated or raw-edge wood through furniture, picture frames, or even a rustic tray to hold your plant collection.

Seasonal Styling Tips

Rotate your natural styling elements with the seasons:

• Autumn: Add dried eucalyptus, pampas grass, or acorns in clay vases.
• Winter: Bring in pine branches, cinnamon sticks, and woodsy scents.
• Spring: Opt for fresh herbs like rosemary and mint in the kitchen.
• Summer: Use cuttings from your garden — think lavender, daisies, or lemon branches.

Complete the Mood

Finish your space with cozy touches:

• A linen or cotton throw in earthy tones
• A scented candle with notes of moss, cedarwood, or vetiver
• A slow playlist and an open window to let the breeze in

Final Thoughts

Creating a home that feels connected to nature isn’t about perfection — it’s about intentional warmth. Let your space reflect the gentle imperfection of the natural world. Invite it in through texture, greenery, scent, and light. The result? A more grounded, harmonious home that supports your wellbeing — the very essence of Simply Hygge.