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Pets bring endless love and joy, but any owner knows this bliss comes with a few trade-offs — muddy paw prints, shedding fur and scratched floors. Fortunately, homeowners don’t have to sacrifice their aesthetic goals for their pet’s happiness. Here are eight smart strategies for designing a harmonious home that works for every family member.

1. Choose Durable, Stain-Resistant Materials

Pets can bring in dirt, and their claws can wreck floors and furniture. Investing in materials that can withstand wear and still look amazing is key. Hardwood flooring with a tough polyurethane finish is a smart choice, as it <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0014305724006827" target="_blank">offers excellent resistance to wear</a> and corrosion. Pet parents can skip delicate fabrics and prioritize home additions that resist spills and stains, such as microfiber.&nbsp;

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Aging pets require extra care. If a dog struggles to hop onto the sofa or a cat needs a gentle boost, a piece of pet-friendly furniture can be of huge help. Homeowners must choose couches or beds that are lower to the ground to minimize jumping distance. They can also put steps or ramps next to favored lounging spots. Orthopedic bed options can help animals with joint pains and injuries to sleep more soundly.

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An outdoor, cozy doghouse to sleep in is ideal for those with a dog that has a litter or a pup who enjoys being outdoors. If there isn’t enough outdoor space, the area under the staircase or a large laundry room cabinet is a great alternative. Pet parents can also swap a wire crate for a stunning furniture-style version that functions as a stylish end table or console.&nbsp;

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Wall-mounted skywalks and tunnels can excite feline friends. It’s a game-changer for high-energy cats — and even small dogs — to keep them off countertops. This instantly gives a space a modern, interactive feel. Functional decor additions, such as sisal rope and carpet squares, provide added grip and scratching resistance.

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Tripping over pets’ food and water bowls can be a frustrating experience. A clever pull-out drawer that can be slid out at mealtime is the key to a clutter-free area. Dedicating the bottom drawer of a kitchen island or installing one large enough to hold everything is a smart solution. The mudroom’s low cabinet can also serve as bowl storage.

Select pet-safe greenery to create a vibrant and worry-free environment. Before purchasing anything, pet owners should check the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals list for toxicity information. Hydrangeas, azaleas and lantana <a href="https://renovated.com/pet-friendly-houseplants/" target="_blank">can cause mild symptoms</a> like stomach upset. Safe options include spider plant, Boston fern and Christmas cactus.

Using a pet’s coat as a decor palette can simplify the cleaning routine. Choosing rugs, throw pillows and a sofa in a shade that’s similar to the animal companion’s fur can camouflage shedding. This hack provides a cleaner look and can help prevent the need for frequent vacuuming. A homeowner with a golden retriever can opt for beige or tan. A multi-toned or tweed fabric is a great choice for a calico cat.

Designing With Condo or Homeowners Association (HOA) Pet Policies in Mind&nbsp;

Living in a condo or apartment often comes with strict rules. These policies are designed to ensure a peaceful environment for all residents, but they can impact how you design your home for your pets. For instance, condominium tenants <a href="https://www.calalaw.com/blog/what-condominium-owners-should-know-about-the-changing-pet-policy-landscape-and-applicable-laws/" target="_blank">must sign a pet agreement</a>, which comes with restrictions like:

In some communities, breeds such as the <a href="https://www.dogsbite.org/legislating-dangerous-dogs-restricted-breed-faq.php" target="_blank">pit bull and Rottweiler are prohibited</a>, as their attacks often result in severe injuries. Additionally, many HOAs have the legal authority to <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/h/hoa.asp" target="_blank">enforce community policies about pets</a> and property modification. Such rules may restrict pet parents from making structural changes, such as installing pet doors and built-in kennels. Moreover, rentals require you to return the unit to its original condition. This means things like wall-to-wall skywalks are often off-limits.

Tenants must focus on non-permanent improvements. Instead of building a food drawer, consider buying a console table with an open shelf that can accommodate the bowls. Choose floor-to-ceiling towers or multilevel, stable pieces that require no drilling for your pet’s skywalks. Designing with condo, rental or HOA rules in mind can help maximize space and create a more harmonious living environment.

Designing a pet-friendly home is a fun and adventurous experience. Pet parents or aspiring ones can use these ideas to transform their space, where they and their furry friends can live their best lives together.

Ready to design a pet-friendly home you’ll love? Plan rooms, test layouts, and style spaces in minutes with <a href="https://decormatters.app.link/blog" target="_blank">the DecorMatters app</a>. For fresh inspiration, <a href="https://decormatters.com/explore" target="_blank">explore interior design ideas</a>.

UP NEXT:&nbsp;<a href="https://decormatters.com/blog/16-cozy-living-room-ideas-you-ll-love-from-designers" target="_blank">28 Cozy Living Room Ideas You'll Love from Interior Designers</a>—thoughtful touches for any space—be it a sprawling home or a compact apartment—to become a warm and welcoming retreat.

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Create a stylish, pet-friendly home with durable, stain-resistant materials, low-profile furniture, cozy dens, cat skywalks, pull-out feeding stations, safe plants, and HOA-ready upgrades—smart design ideas for dogs and cats in any space.

7 Genius Design Ideas for Homes With Furry Friends

Interior design enthusiasts have noticed a growing fascination with slouchy sofas — deep-seated, plush, laid-back couches that feel as inviting as they look. What exactly makes these pieces so popular among designers and homeowners alike?

Designers appreciate slouchy sofas for their unparalleled comfort. Unlike rigid, formal seating, these couches invite lounging, sinking in and lingering. Many describe slouchy furniture as “simply cool,” with casual lines that don’t strain to impress and encourage relaxation — perfect for listening to music or watching movies in complete ease. It’s no surprise, then, that the demand for multifunctional and modular furniture <a href="https://gitnux.org/home-furnishings-industry-statistics/" target="_blank">jumped by 20% in 2023</a>, as urban dwellers seek adaptable pieces that feel as inviting as they are practical.

This appetite for comfort shows up in the numbers, too. Valued <a href="https://renovated.com/types-of-sofas/" target="_blank">at $4.45 billion today</a>, the reclining sofa market is projected to climb to $6.18 billion by 2030, underscoring just how much consumers prioritize relaxation in their living spaces. Slouchy sofas ride that same wave but add an extra layer of design credibility, delivering a piece that balances style with sink-in coziness.

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Slouchy sofas are more than just cozy — they’re stylishly retro. Michel Ducaroy’s iconic Togo sofa, <a href="https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/the-story-behind-michel-ducaroys-iconic-slouchy-togo-seating" target="_blank">unveiled in 1973 for Ligne Roset</a>, embodies this trend. Crafted entirely from foam and quilted polyester, it was initially met with skepticism for having no visible legs. Yet <a href="https://madaboutmidcenturymodern.co.uk/the-togo-sofa/" target="_blank">actors like Colman Domingo</a> adore it, and interior designer Audrey Scheck says it <a href="https://www.interiordaily.com/article/9742737/why-gen-z-is-sinking-into-the-slouchy-couch/" target="_blank">highlights how younger generations are</a> “bringing character back to home design.”

Trendy, Sculptural Shapes That Feel Personal

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In 2025, designers are favoring richly textured fabrics, such as velvet, boucle and linen, and deep, cushioned, oversized sofas that feel sculptural and expressive. These shapes foster personal expression, moving away from overly formal, matchy-matchy pieces toward furniture that <a href="https://decormatters.com/blog/shifting-away-from-neutrals-why-it-is-time-for-personality-driven-design" target="_blank">reflects individuality</a>.

This shift also explains the rise of slouchy sofas. Their relaxed forms and tactile fabrics balance comfort and artistry, making them a natural fit for today’s desire for furniture that feels both lived-in and design-forward.

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Slouchy sofas often come in modular forms — think “blob sofas” or bulbous seating that can be rearranged to fit different spaces or needs. Designers love how modular couches feel like dominoes, easily reconfigured for gatherings or quiet nights. Famous tastemakers <a href="https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/the-blob-sofa-is-in-why-tastemakers-cant-get-enough-of-modular-seating" target="_blank">like Kelly Wearstler and Rodman Primack</a> enjoy the intimacy these low, enveloping forms bring to a room.

For apartment dwellers, modular slouchy sofas also solve a practical challenge — space. With many <a href="https://www.triplecrowncorp.com/blog/furnish-first-apartment/" target="_blank">apartments averaging about 861 square feet</a>, measuring both the living room and doorways before buying is key. This ensures the new sofa fits the layout and can actually make it through the door.

A Style With Soul — Comfort That Feels Human

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Slouchy designs like the Togo sofa cradle the body’s form through carefully engineered foam zones. Today’s revival of such cozy, organic seating responds to a desire for warmth, nostalgia and comfort — especially in uncertain times.

How to Style a Room Around a Slouchy Couch

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A slouchy sofa makes a bold statement on its own, but the magic really happens when the entire room complements its relaxed vibe. The right mix of textures, shapes and accents can turn a casual couch into the heart of a stylish, welcoming space. Here are a few easy ways people can style a room so their sofa feels perfectly at home:

Designers are embracing slouchy sofas because they blend comfort, individuality and tactile luxury. These cozy giants evoke the free-spirited energy of the 1970s while serving modern, flexible lifestyles. Whether it’s the legendary Togo sofa or a plush modular curve, slouchy seating delivers a sense of personality and ease that few formal designs can match.

Want to design your dream living room around the slouchy sofa trend? <a href="https://decormatters.app.link/blog" target="_blank">Download the DecorMatters app</a> to explore design ideas, experiment with layouts, and create stylish spaces that blend comfort and personality.

UP NEXT: <a href="https://decormatters.com/blog/the-10-best-restoration-hardware-cloud-couch-dupes-according-to-interior-designers" target="_blank">The 12 Best Restoration Hardware Cloud Couch Dupes, According to Interior Designers</a>

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Slouchy sofas are the must-have trend in 2025. Discover why designers love these plush, modular couches—from iconic Togo sofas to cozy, modern lounge designs. Learn how to style slouchy sofas for comfort, personality, and timeless home decor.

Why Designers Are Obsessed With Slouchy Sofas

As the temperatures drop and the leaves change color, it’s time to think about fall patio decor. Celebrating the autumn season can be more meaningful with sustainability in mind. These sustainable outdoor fall decorating ideas can help you create a cozier environment that embodies personal comfort and environmental care.

1. Craft a Table Out of Recycled Materials

If your patio is feeling bare, an upcycled table can be a functional and aesthetically pleasing addition. What’s great about upcycling projects is that there are no rules. Use what you have on hand — reclaimed wood, wood pallets, metal barrels — and get creative.

Of the billions of tons of waste generated worldwide,<a href="https://www.unep.org/resources/global-waste-management-outlook-2024" target="_blank"> 30% ends up in landfills</a>, which generate large amounts of greenhouse gases and pollute the environment. This project is an excellent way to <a href="https://decormatters.com/blog/making-the-most-of-a-little-designing-a-beautiful-and-functional-small-patio" target="_blank">spruce up your patio</a> while using forgotten items and saving them from the landfill.

2. Design a Compact, Sustainable Outdoor Kitchen

Transform your patio into a culinary haven with a small, sustainable outdoor kitchen. Even limited spaces can accommodate functional and stylish cooking areas that embrace natural materials and eco-friendly practices. An outdoor kitchen enhances your lifestyle and increases your <a href="https://openaircabinetry.com/blog/small-outdoor-kitchen-ideas/" target="_blank">property value by almost 2%</a>.

Consider using reclaimed wood for cabinetry, creating a rustic and sustainable focal point. Opt for a compact, propane-powered grill with a high energy-efficiency rating to minimize fuel consumption. A small, portable prep table made from sustainably harvested wood provides a convenient workspace without taking up too much room. To further enhance the sustainability of your outdoor kitchen, incorporate a built-in herb garden using upcycled containers. This provides fresh ingredients for your fall recipes while adding a touch of greenery to your patio.

A vertical garden is an economical way to add greenery and beauty to your eco-friendly patio. It can work for nearly every home since it requires little space and straightforward maintenance.&nbsp;

These gardens work all year round, and can support vegetables, flowers and herbs, as long as they are in season. To prepare for fall, go for flowers like African daisies and petunias. If you want a vegetable garden, arugula, broccoli and spinach are safe bets. Elevate your vertical garden by incorporating edible flowers like pansies and calendula, along with fragrant herbs like rosemary and thyme. The combination of visual beauty and aromatic scents will create a truly immersive sensory experience on your patio.

What’s a garden without some fun planters? You can always buy new ones, but making your own from repurposed materials can be a fun and eco-friendly way to decorate your patio.

Rummage through your shed or garage and find containers you can use for your plants. With the right tweaks, old buckets, cans, large bottles and even old boots can be planters. Drill drainage holes, decorate, and fill them with shrubs and veggies.&nbsp;

Embrace the eclectic look by using a variety of upcycled planters, but tie them together with a consistent color palette. Paint them in muted earth tones or use stencils to create a unified design. This creates a visually appealing display while celebrating the unique character of each repurposed item.

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Rainwater collection is a free, eco-friendly way to provide fresh water for your plants or to clean your surroundings. Place a large barrel in an open area on your patio. Add a mesh screen to keep out insects and debris, and get creative by painting your rainwater barrel to make it a standout part of your patio decor.&nbsp;

Using collected rainwater minimizes your reliance on municipal lines, helping lower your utility bills. Rainwater is also better for your garden and irrigation systems, as <a href="https://renovated.com/resilient-spaces-water-conservation-in-sustainable-design/" target="_blank">it has fewer minerals</a> and is softer on plants. To determine the right size barrel for your needs, calculate your average rainfall and garden size.

While wreaths are more common at Christmastime, autumnal wreaths made from foraged materials can be just as gorgeous and appropriate for the season. Gather pinecones, fallen twigs, grapevines, leaves and berries to create a unique, compostable piece of decor.

Start with a base of flexible twigs or vines, wrapping them around each other. Then, you can insert and layer leaves, pinecones and other elements, and wrap them with ribbon or twine for securing. To preserve the beauty of your foraged materials, dry them thoroughly before assembling your wreath. Hang bundles of leaves and herbs upside down in a cool, dark place for several weeks. Add a few drops of essential oils like cinnamon or clove to your wreath for a warm, inviting fragrance that evokes the spirit of fall.

A natural stone pathway is a classy addition to your patio. In addition to looking great, it’s also functional, making your yard and patio safer and more stable.&nbsp;

You can use various materials to make pathways, but using natural stone is an eco-friendly option, especially when locally sourced. It’s durable, looks sophisticated and can be sourced with minimal environmental impact. Also, opt for permeable pavers made from recycled materials (like locally sourced stone). These pavers allow rainwater to filter back into the ground, reducing runoff and replenishing groundwater supplies. This sustainable choice not only enhances the beauty of your patio but also contributes to a healthier ecosystem.

Spruce up your patio furniture with throw pillows, blankets or tablecloths made from natural fibers like cotton, linen or hemp. Using natural materials for fall patio decor makes sense both aesthetically and functionally. They are highly breathable and allow air to circulate better, preventing mold and mildew buildup.

When undyed, these materials come in warm tones and rugged textures, adding to the coziness of the season. You can also go for bold, seasonal prints that match the fall vibe. When selecting natural fabrics, prioritize those with a tight weave and water-resistant finish for added durability. Look for outdoor-specific options made from recycled materials or organic cotton. These fabrics will withstand the elements while adding a touch of sustainable style to your patio.

Solar energy is an effortless and eco-friendly way to light up your patio and outdoor spaces. You can find solar lights in all shapes, sizes and designs from a hardware store or online retailer.

Once you set them up, they can charge automatically when there’s sun and illuminate when it gets dark. To use them as decor, place solar lanterns alongside pathways or hang solar string lights over railings. Create a warm and inviting ambiance by layering different types of solar lights. Use pathway lights to illuminate walkways, string lights to add a festive touch and lanterns to create focal points. Choose warm-toned LED bulbs for a cozy, autumnal glow that complements the colors of the season.

Fast turnovers in fashion and interior design trends are becoming a significant environmental problem. Low-quality furniture and decor are more susceptible to damage<a href="https://www.cnn.com/style/article/fast-furniture-problem-for-our-planet" target="_blank"> </a>and <a href="https://www.cnn.com/style/article/fast-furniture-problem-for-our-planet" target="_blank">more difficult to recycle</a>, so most end up in landfills.

When planning seasonal decor, choose reusable or compostable options. Buy biodegradable decorations or make them from natural materials like pumpkins, gourds, twigs and leaves. These materials are accessible — you can forage at your nearest park, go to the grocery store or find them in your own yard. When the season ends, you can compost your creations and return them to the earth.&nbsp;

A new season brings new opportunities for outdoor fall decorating and transformation. Embracing natural materials and sustainable patio projects is an excellent way to warm up your home and live in harmony with nature. As the days grow shorter and the nights grow cooler, let your patio be a sanctuary that reflects both your personal style and your commitment to a greener world. By embracing these sustainable transformations, you can create a space that is both beautiful and meaningful, celebrating the best of fall while honoring the earth.

Ready to bring your dream spaces to life? With <a href="https://decormatters.app.link/blog" target="_blank">the DecorMatters app</a>, you can design patios, play creative games, and explore endless decorating ideas right from your phone. <a href="https://decormatters.app.link/blog" target="_blank">Download the app today</a> and start designing your perfect fall retreat!

UP NEXT: <a href="https://decormatters.com/blog/30-cozy-fall-decorating-ideas-to-transform-your-home-with-autumn-vibes" target="_blank">30 Cozy Fall Decorating Ideas to Transform Your Home with Autumn Vibes</a>

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Discover 10 sustainable fall patio ideas using natural materials. From recycled tables to solar lights, these eco-friendly fall patio transformations bring warmth, style, and seasonal charm to your outdoor space while embracing sustainability.

10 Sustainable Fall Patio Transformations Using Natural Materials

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Innovative technology is more than added functionality — it's crucial to a home's ability to keep up with the changing pace of modern living. Tools such as robot vacuums, smart ovens and Internet of Things (IoT) devices are becoming a part of everyday life.

Yet not everyone is thrilled with the idea of robotic everything and AI-driven software, and many people worry that these devices are aesthetically displeasing. Integrating smart home technology into an interior style may be the final piece to embracing modern features. Here are a few techniques to help homeowners blend smart home technology with any design style.&nbsp;

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By 2030, consumers will use <a href="https://www.statista.com/topics/2637/internet-of-things/#topicOverview" target="_blank">over 31 billion IoT devices</a> globally. Manufacturers are creating more customizable smart home technology, so whether a person embraces a trendy movement or prefers a minimalist style, they will likely find something to blend with their home's overall look. For instance, a bohemian living room might utilize a brightly patterned sticker to cover a robot vacuum’s surface, and a minimalist might choose a hidden porch camera.&nbsp;

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Smart home technology allows users to browse the internet with a smart TV, look up a recipe while cooking dinner or videoconference with family worldwide. However, too many wires and cables can be unsightly. To enhance the appearance of large innovative appliances, homeowners can mount televisions and computers on the wall. Try tucking wires away with a strip that matches the wall's paint color and blends into the background for a seamless appearance.

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Tons of remote controls scattered around messes with a minimalistic vibe. Fortunately, today’s devices are easily controlled with mobile apps. For example, indoor security cameras and smart garage door openers embrace Wi-Fi and <a href="https://www.clopaydoor.com/blog/post/blog/2024/08/19/how-to-choose-the-right-garage-door-opener" target="_blank">add additional security through alerts</a> and remote access to manage the home from a distance. The stylish upgrade brings smart function to the entirety of a home without adding more stuff.

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Robotic vacuums that clean floors, smart screens that display calendars, refrigerators that sense when the milk jug is almost empty and the many cables and wires that go with all the smart devices in the home can create clutter. However, the time-saving automation of keeping floors debris-free with zero effort and having an appliance order your groceries is helpful for busy families. Homeowners can create built-ins that offer storage solutions for all the gadgets.&nbsp;

Add shelves to serve as charging stations and tuck away wires. Build a cover for the vacuum and mop that also serves as a place to set shoes when people walk in the door. Look for ways to cover, tuck away and hide devices so they don’t impact the room’s vibe.&nbsp;

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Decide whether you want your smart home technology to blend in or look like a piece of decor. Neutral finishes aim to mix with other things in a space and not draw attention. For example, a homeowner may choose matte black or white for smart switches, speakers, lights and thermostats to blend with any decor.&nbsp;

On the flip side, they may go with bold colors and embrace the <a href="https://renovated.com/is-greige-still-hot/" target="_blank">rising trend of color drenching</a> to brighten up a space. Smart speakers and appliances now come in a variety of materials and finishes to match users’ personal home styles.

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Smart home technology can complement personal decorating preferences. Choose devices that enhance the room’s look and carefully hide what doesn't match. With these integration tips, IoT devices can enhance every room in a house and keep it looking like something out of a home and garden magazine.&nbsp;

Ready to create a space that’s both smart and beautiful? <a href="https://decormatters.app.link/blog" target="_blank">Download the DecorMatters app</a> to visualize your smart home tech integrated into your decor—effortlessly design room layouts, choose finishes, and customize how technology complements your style. Make your home smarter and more stylish today!

UP NEXT: <a href="https://decormatters.com/blog/how-is-smart-home-technology-transforming-interior-design-for-homeowners" target="_blank">How is Smart Home Technology Transforming Interior Design for Homeowners?</a>

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Discover expert-backed smart home technology integration tips—from hiding cables and blending with decor to choosing smart lighting, security, and appliances. Learn how to seamlessly merge smart home devices with your interior design for a sleek, functional living space.

How to Beautifully Integrate Smart Home Technology Into Any Room

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Refreshing living spaces for summer is a fun project, so take inspiration from the beautiful weather and lean into biophilic interior design elements. Merging your design with elements from the natural world can create gorgeous homes. Use some transformative strategies to make any summer space a biophilic haven.

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Sunlight is a powerful component of any biophilic home. Compared to artificial lights, people who get more sunlight exposure through windows have <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/18/4/1670" target="_blank">fewer low moods</a>.

While you might want to add windows to your home or a client’s indoor space, you don’t have to undertake a big project. Hang sheer curtain panels on windows and doors instead. You’ll maintain a sense of household privacy while letting more sunlight in.

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Using space strategically is foundational to any good interior design project. Vertical gardens could become a helpful biophilic resource when you or a client runs out of floor space. Indoor and outdoor plant shelves can house stunning greenery. Other furniture choices, like decorative ladders or bookshelves, could double as garden stands if single shelving isn’t an option.

People with fences around their property can use the panels as garden structures. Vining plants will love climbing the wood, metal, or vinyl materials. Hanging equipment can also attach potted plants to the top of the fence, allowing more of the natural world to merge with the backyard.

If you don’t have a fence, construct a stand-alone wall in your indoor or outdoor spaces. Bamboo is super on trend and one of the most environmentally friendly materials you can use. With <a href="https://blog.foreverbamboo.com/eco-friendly-benefits-building-with-bamboo/" target="_blank">1,000 of species</a> to choose from, you can really get a variety that complements the home’s aesthetic. Reclaimed wood and cork also work really well, incorporating nature into your home with minimal environmental impact.

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The Earth wouldn’t be the same without water, so it’s a leading part of biophilic design principles. Place an indoor fountain on a countertop or construct a bird bath off a back porch. Small ponds will layer aquatic plants and rippling texture to a backyard. The best choice depends on what you or your client feels is best for the space, given their budget and existing home features.

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If the idea of caring for plants causes someone stress, they can always decorate with air plants. The specialized species <a href="https://renovated.com/air-gardens-are-transforming-gardening/" target="_blank">grow without soil or pots</a>, so strict watering schedules won’t be an issue. Place them on any surface to texturize a space while making it greener.

The size of each air plant also makes them interesting design elements. You could create a fairy garden with them or place them in a hollowed-out book. They’re easy to incorporate with numerous aesthetics, so your design dreams can work with any biophilic design home preference.

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Fiber is an easy way to add more of the natural world to any home. The texture is different from standard carpets or flooring.

Place a woven fiber rug underneath the living room or screened porch furniture. You’ll upgrade the room’s appearance with one easy addition.

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A different paint color can make a home feel new. If you think your next biophilic interior upgrade includes a paint project, aim for shades that occur in nature.

You could turn a room into a sage green, ocean blue or autumn orange oasis. They’re hues people <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.3758/s13423-024-02615-z" target="_blank">associate with positive emotions</a>, so you may feel happier with those new paint colors around your home. The shade could also complement other design aspects you’re incorporating, like more greenery or water-inspired decorations.

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Homeowners with any outdoor space or balcony can make their property a home for pollinators, like butterflies and bees. Make local plants part of your next biophilic design project with potted varieties or an in-ground garden. If you choose ones that specifically feed or house local pollinators, you’ll support your region’s ecosystem while giving your property new texture layers.

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If you want to use your outdoor space for longer socialization in the evenings, don’t dig up the soil to put in electrical lines. Instead, add walkway lighting that charges with mini solar panels. The eco-friendly power prioritizes the planet and provides the illumination you need for after-dinner lounging on your back porch.

Avoiding any digging projects helps the environment, too. Soil contains <a href="https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/conservation-basics/natural-resource-concerns/soils/soil-health" target="_blank">billions of essential microbes</a> that are important for the ecosystem. Moving soil to install lighting along your property could disrupt biological processes, which has ripple effects on living things in your region.

Enhance Your Home With Biophilic Design Elements

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Creating a biophilic interior design home layout or helping a client achieve the same goal can be simple. Think about straightforward projects that work best with what’s already in the home. Growing plants, using different textures or changing the colors will merge the environment with anyone’s living space.

Ready to bring your biophilic design vision to life? The <a href="https://decormatters.app.link/blog" target="_blank">DecorMatters app</a> lets you experiment with layouts, textures, and colors before making a move. Download the app to <a href="https://decormatters.app.link/blog" target="_blank">design your dream summer space</a>—no stress, all creativity.

UP NEXT: <a href="https://www.semrush.com/swa/checker/Summer%20Decorating:%2024%20Refreshing%20Ideas%20to%20Spruce%20Up%20Your%20Home" target="_blank">Summer Decorating: 24 Refreshing Ideas to Spruce Up Your Home</a>

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Discover 9 biophilic design ideas to transform your summer spaces with natural light, greenery, textures, and water features. Create calming, eco-inspired interiors and outdoor areas using sustainable, nature-connected elements. Perfect for summer home refreshes!

9 Biophilic Design Elements That Transform Summer Spaces

Most people can recall the most peaceful they've ever felt at home. Chances are, golden hour light painted the walls in warm honey tones. That feeling of pure contentment is the body responding to what some call nature's perfect lighting, and it can filter into the house every day.&nbsp;

This magical hour has inspired an interior design movement rooted in 1970s coastal style. Golden hour's design uses earthy textures, desert-inspired colors and touches of nostalgia that create a permanent vacation-at-home feeling.

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Honey-toned timber, rattan and grasscloth wallpaper are among the <a href="https://www.rmcad.edu/blog/biophilic-design-integrating-nature-into-modern-interiors/" target="_blank">natural elements forming this biophilic design's</a> foundation. These natural materials have grounding, earthy qualities that create cozy retreats to touch the spirit. During golden hour, the finish of the wood glows with warmth, while the grasscloth wallpaper adds texture to the walls. The addition of rattan brings a woven texture that connects to nature through a tactile experience.

These materials reward homeowners by waking up the senses, creating beautiful moments when the skin grazes across sun-dried linen or when the sunshine reflects eye-catching patterns of the natural textures. Together, these materials create an organic backdrop perfect for capturing and boosting the golden sunlight.

2. Layer Textural Elements for Visual Warmth

Textured surfaces catch and reflect golden light beautifully, making texture necessary for capitalizing on this enchanting hour. Woven textures give spaces a feeling of soul and heart, serving as the closest link to the natural world. Clever layering creates depth and visual richness throughout the home.&nbsp;

These elements work together to create sophisticated spaces connected to nature.&nbsp;

Get a cozy, warm golden glow by using only warm-white bulbs in lamps and light fixtures, paired with dimmer switches for total control. Copy the sun's natural direction by avoiding harsh overhead lighting, which feels like midday sun.&nbsp;

Instead, choose lamps and wall lights placed at the angle of the rising or setting sun. Layer different light sources to create a soft glow that enhances the golden hour's natural beauty. Crystal chandeliers, candelabras, and wall sconces provide beauty paired with soft lighting that makes the golden hour feel magical and inviting.&nbsp;

4. Incorporate Desert-Inspired Color Palettes

Soft sand, earthy ochre and sunset red create a hazy desert palette that defines golden hour interiors. These layered, deep tones create warmth and movement like shifting dunes. Blush tones filter gentle light into rooms that soothe and energize simultaneously.&nbsp;

Move beyond sterile white rooms toward colors that feel grounded and comforting. Burnished shades in velvet cushions, terra cotta accessories and warm paint colors set the scene for natural light to work its magic. These soft hues align with fashion trends using sustainable materials and organic forms.

5. Design Open Floor Plans to Maximize Light Flow

<a href="https://decormatters.com/blog/maximizing-space-and-style-open-floor-plan-interior-design-ideas" target="_blank">Open layouts</a> allow golden hour light to travel freely throughout the home, maximizing its transforming effects. Remove unnecessary barriers between spaces to<a href="https://www.keystonecustomhome.com/blog/benefits-of-open-floorplans/" target="_blank"> create a communal living space</a> that makes the home feel larger while enhancing light distribution.&nbsp;

This approach helps homeowners enjoy the economic benefits of a small house, <a href="https://renovated.com/tiny-house-benefits-advantages-of-going-small/" target="_blank">including lower mortgage payments</a> and increased energy efficiency, while also benefiting from the spaciousness of an open floor plan. Choose furniture with curved, flowy forms that echo nature's fluidity and ripple-like silhouettes. These organic shapes complement the flowing light and create seamless transitions between different areas of the home.&nbsp;

Golden hour designs often draw heavily from 1970s California-cool style, bringing back simpler times and sun-kissed memories. This nostalgic feeling creates spaces that feel like safe havens in carefree summers. To capture light-hearted simplicity, include burnished velvet cushions in warm tones, furniture with rattan panels and shell pendant lights.&nbsp;

These elements induce coastal holiday feelings, even within everyday spaces. The trend celebrates the deliciousness of settling into plush sofas with a glass in hand as afternoon light turns everything it touches to gold, creating permanent vacation vibes at home.

7. Optimize Window Treatments for Golden Hour

Innovative window treatments maximize the golden hour's benefits while adding visual interest and depth to rooms. One approach pairs blinds with sheer curtains that<a href="https://www.rtor.org/2018/07/26/how-light-improves-mental-health/" target="_blank"> let in health-supporting natural light</a>, creating a layered window dressing ideal for managing natural light and climate. This combination lets homeowners control light intensity while maintaining the warm, filtered glow that defines the golden hour style. Consider how different fabrics and textures interact with changing light throughout the day.

Essential window treatment elements include:

Choose Nature-Inspired Decor Elements&nbsp;

Golden hour design turns homes into warm, inviting retreats that capture the magic of nature's most beautiful lighting. Natural materials, bright lighting, serendipity-inspired colors and nostalgic themes help homeowners create grounding and transportive spaces. These design choices offer fresh alternatives to stark, minimalist style while celebrating the simple pleasure of beautiful light.&nbsp;

Incorporating these nature-inspired golden-hour touches to home decor helps make everyday living feel like a permanent vacation. Start using these stylish techniques to create a home that glows with warmth and character year-round.

Love these golden-hour design ideas? With DecorMatters, you can virtually style your room using these exact textures, color palettes, and lighting schemes—then preview it in your own space before buying. <a href="https://decormatters.app.link/blog" target="_blank">Download DecorMatters now</a> and turn your home into a daily golden-hour haven.

UP NEXT: <a href="https://decormatters.com/blog/brighten-your-day-10-ways-to-harness-natural-light-for-a-happier-home" target="_blank">10 Natural Light Hacks to Brighten Your Home and Boost Your Mood</a>

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Give your home that magical golden-hour glow! Learn 7 cozy interior design tips—warm neutrals, desert palettes, tactile textures, strategic lighting, and nostalgic 1970s elements. Perfect for homeowners searching for golden hour home decor ideas or golden hour interior design.

7 Stylish Ways to Make the Most of Golden Hour in a Home

Whether you’re new to the trend of indoor and outdoor living or want to embrace it for the first time this summer, carefully created areas can boost enjoyment for your household and visitors while expanding how you use your home. What products should you incorporate into the space, and what benefits do they bring?

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Indoor-outdoor rugs feature beautiful colors and patterns while adding tactile transitions between sections used for different purposes, such as cooking, dining and lounging. They are made from materials that are easy to spot-clean or vacuum, making them easy to maintain over the years. These rugs also increase traction on slick surfaces, such as walkways near pools, fountains or hot tubs.&nbsp;

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Lights make indoor-outdoor spaces more usable by allowing you to keep enjoying them as levels of natural light change throughout the day. Choose lights that look beautiful and encourage people to linger over an engrossing book or enjoy gazing at the stars. Options you can control with an app are convenient for changing the lighting from anywhere.&nbsp;

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You can easily find a broad assortment of Bluetooth speakers for an indoor-outdoor living room or similar space. Whether you want a small one you can clip somewhere or something with a boombox-inspired design, there are many options available. Pay attention to specifications, particularly waterproof ratings and battery life. Those are some of the most important characteristics affecting usability in spaces that blur the lines between the indoors and outdoors.

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Strategically placed planters and pots help you create beautiful transitions while welcoming people into an indoor-outdoor living space. Consider the height and material of your vessels and plants while creating your desired look, and try putting native plants in them. They’re <a href="https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/conservation/wild-plants/landscaping-with-native-plants.html" target="_blank">low maintenance and support native pollinators</a>, like bees and butterflies.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Having easily accessible but secure places to store things is a game-changer in <a href="https://decormatters.com/blog/how-to-blend-your-design-style-outside-for-a-cohesive-home" target="_blank">indoor-outdoor house design</a>. That may mean buying or building a shed or purchasing waterproof storage boxes that double as benches once you put cushions on top. You may also want to purchase products with drawers, allowing you to arrange the contents by category or how often you use them.

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Indoor-outdoor spaces can quickly become sun-filled. Shades and awnings help you maintain pleasant temperatures and provide cooler areas for relief during the hottest parts of the day. As you decide where to put them, remember that the <a href="https://www.usa-shade.com/blog/shade-solutions-by-environment/" target="_blank">sun moves from east to west</a> throughout the day. Additionally, if you live in the Northern Hemisphere, the sun is higher in the summer than in winter, increasing direct light.

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Whether you choose a patio heater, a fire pit or another source of warmth, your indoor-outdoor living space may need something to use once the sun goes down and it starts to get chilly. Some options are mounted to walls, making them ideal for keeping the floor clear. Alternatively, consider tabletop models to create a cozy setting while playing games or sipping beverages.&nbsp;

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An outdoor projector lets you host open-air movie nights or invite people over to catch every second of the televised football game they can’t miss. Include this item in your covered <a href="https://decormatters.com/blog/12-outdoor-living-space-trends-taking-over-2025" target="_blank">outdoor living space ideas</a> and look for ways to protect it from the weather. Although some people project content onto a white wall or sheet, buying a foldable screen for improved flexibility is even better.

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One of the best things about having an indoor-outdoor space is that you can dine in open areas that get you closer to nature. Make the experience even more laid-back by purchasing tableware made for the purpose. Look for vibrant colors, fun patterns or other characteristics that match your style. Choose dishwasher-safe options made from durable materials to quickly clean up after entertaining.&nbsp;

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Room dividers are handy for indoor and outdoor living because they let you visually and functionally segment the overall space. Consider modular designs or screens that let you expand the coverage if necessary. Alternatively, use furniture such as bookshelves to create division. Sliding doors are also ideal options if your budget allows.&nbsp;

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Furniture can become a focal point for indoor-outdoor spaces. Pick options for specific purposes, such as relaxing, eating or working. Materials such as synthetic wicker, teak and aluminum are <a href="https://renovated.com/clean-outdoor-furniture/" target="_blank">weather-resistant and easy to maintain</a>, making them excellent choices. Add pillows, cushions and throws to increase comfort and pads to the furniture legs and feet to product surfaces underneath.&nbsp;

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Whether they’re boxes, ceiling-mounted or even the type people hold in their hands, fans are essential for an indoor-outdoor living room or similar spaces used frequently during summer. Choose one that can handle exposure to the elements and consider whether a battery-powered or electric model best suits your needs and space.&nbsp;

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Carts are fantastic for efficiently moving things around your indoor-outdoor living space while keeping items within easy reach. Whether you buy a cart and stock it with refreshment supplies or use one for miscellaneous products such as sunscreen, ice cube trays and hand sanitizer, these additions are handy ways to stay organized.&nbsp;

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Whether the menu includes veggie burgers or hot dogs, a grill thermometer is a handy accessory that ensures the fare tastes fantastic and is safe to consume. Wireless models let you monitor cooking progress while away from the grill. Many options offer Bluetooth connectivity and apps for better visibility.

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The best indoor-outdoor house design ideas add versatility. Installing screens or curtains is one of the easiest ways to do that. Both allow you to enjoy outdoor elements while having full or partial barriers when desired. Screens protect dining and cooking areas from flies, while curtains reduce pollen and ultraviolet rays.

Create a Beautiful Indoor-Outdoor Living Space

There are plenty of ways to connect the exterior and interior parts of your home, creating places where you love to spend time and invite friends. Let these 15 items inspire you to envision and build attractive, highly functional areas to enjoy this summer and beyond.&nbsp;

Ready to bring your indoor-outdoor living space to life? <a href="https://decormatters.app.link/blog" target="_blank">The DecorMatters app</a> makes it easy to plan, design, and visualize your perfect setup with furniture, decor, and layout tools at your fingertips. <a href="https://decormatters.app.link/blog" target="_blank">Download the app now</a> and start designing your dream space today.

UP NEXT: <a href="https://decormatters.com/blog/spruce-up-your-backyard-18-decorating-ideas-for-a-beautiful-outdoor-space" target="_blank">Spruce Up Your Backyard: 18 Decorating Ideas for a Beautiful Outdoor Space</a>

Discover 15 must-have items to elevate your indoor-outdoor living space this summer. From rugs and lighting to storage and grills, explore top indoor-outdoor design essentials and functional decor ideas to enhance your home's comfort, style, and usability.

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