a special way of invoking comfort and relaxation. So why not bring the outdoors in?
Inspiring our indoor spaces with outdoor elements is the essence of natural design. And while this aesthetic is certainly trending, mindbodygreen’s sustainability & health director Emma Loewe has managed to make it more of a lifestyle. “Whenever we can bring some of nature in, it's really beneficial,” says Emma. “Not just for aesthetics but for health, mental well-being, and stress reduction.”
For Emma, natural design can be so much more than drapes and throw pillows. And we’re getting an exclusive tour of her NYC apartment to see for ourselves.
I
t doesn’t matter whether you find your calm in the middle of the woods, beside an endless ocean, or simply within a grassy patch of your own backyard… We can all agree that nature has
“If a product is well-designed and a space is well-designed, it frees up a lot of my time and mental capacity to focus on the things that matter to me,” Emma explains, with her space as a direct reflection. From a Pinterest-worthy bookshelf to braided wooden baskets to dried flowers wrapped in cotton twine, her apartment carries a refined and organic feel that would inspire any visitor.
It’s no wonder that natural elements are central to uplifting her space. Being the author of the recently published book, Return to Nature, Emma is an expert on the benefits of spending time outdoors. As far as experiencing those benefits within our four walls, “It can be everything from textures inspired by trees, to landscape photography, or anything that’s a reminder of stepping outdoors,” she explains. “It’s a no-brainer to bring the outdoors to a space where I spend most of my time.”
What appears to be an effortless, natural charm informs the ambiance of Emma’s home. Wooden furniture warms the space; earth-toned textiles are cozily draped across surfaces; her houseplants are clearly thriving. And one particular design preference remains consistent from room to room: a fondness for cotton.
Welcome in
EVERYDAY
natural
MANHATTAN, NY
As a natural fiber grown straight from the earth, it isn’t particularly surprising to discover cotton throughout a sustainability editor’s apartment. “Something I really appreciate about cotton is that it’s a natural fabric, but it also stands the tests of time,” she shares. And it’s true—not only does cotton keep its shape over the years, but it’s easier to wash and care for than other fabrics. With any old concert tee as proof, cotton will stir nostalgia too.
“A lot of staples in my wardrobe are cotton and are things I've had for a really long time,” says Emma. “When I wear them, I can feel confident, but also think back on those fun memories I’ve had in them.” She hits on an important point—in our wardrobes and our homes, cotton has always been there (whether we’ve realized it or not).
It’s not a stretch to find cotton even at the core of life’s most important memories. When we ask Emma about favorite items in her home, she shows us a staple cotton button down. “I ordered them for the bridesmaids in my wedding,” she shares. “I wanted to get them something that was high quality that they would really cherish and keep. I kept one for myself and have been wearing it non-stop.”
Cotton items simply feel better. Not just because cotton is soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic, but because it’s a sustainable choice: 100% cotton mostly biodegrades in all tested environments. From style to comfort to durability, cotton is so much more than a fabric. “As someone who prioritizes sustainability, finding items that will stick with me for the long haul is a number-one priority,” adds Emma.
Making memories with cotton
Natural design has already swept the design world, and is here to stay. But Emma has a knack for making it her own. “I want to make sure everything I’m buying reflects the values I want to live out,” she says. “I love surrounding myself with things that tell a story… That are timeless and will stay with me for the long haul.”
That comes through in form—like her color-coordinated bookshelf, an eye-catching corner waiting to be perused. “I love my bookshelf,” Emma shares. “As writers, we find a lot of inspiration in the written word. I love collecting books that speak to me at different points in my life.”
But it also comes through on the level of function—day-to-day sustainable choices that make her life easier, like the basket of neatly folded cotton napkins in the corner of the kitchen. “I use cotton napkins and rags for cleaning. If there’s a spill, I use those before I reach for a paper towel. And then I can just throw them in the washing machine.”
Design that
Tells a story
Design tips
from Emma
Natural design transcends what merely meets the eye. It’s the art of curating a home that aligns with the power of nature. We all want to feel more connected to the vistas outside our windows, but where to begin?
“One way people can bring in natural elements? Dried flowers,” she recommends, with natural cotton bolls as a fun add-in. “Another tip, if you have a window that looks out onto a natural area… Create a little seating space that is centered around the window so it makes a moment out of looking outside and taking a pause.”
Emma also recommends bringing in natural elements that speak to all senses. That could mean buying a small water feature to hear the sound of running water, or taking a picture of a place in nature that you love, and hanging it on the wall. “There’s a lot you can do! Mini-exposures to the natural world is a powerful way to make your space more inviting.”
I want to make sure everything I m buying reflects the values I want to live out
EMMA LOEWE
Curate a natural design with cotton
JCREW
Cotton
Napkin Set
Bee's wrap
Cotton
Sandwich Wrap
free people
Cotton
floral tee
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