LIFESTYLE AND LIVING
The summer days are here!
OCEANA, MARKO ZIRDUM
Nurture the nature at home
Open a window, or better yet, open the door and go out… Take a deep breath. The time is here again: outside is as inviting, if not more, than inside. And we can be outside as much or as little as we want. Time to make the most of gardens, terraces, patios, balconies – big or small. Or, if outdoor space is unavailable, invite the outside in.
treatment rooms or gyms. Conversely and very timely, “biophilic design” as it is called, invites the outside in. Improved natural light, plants, branches and foliage, shades of green, blue, yellow, open skies and vistas, it takes many guises and, clearly, therein lie many secrets of inner peace and balance.
Why?
How?
Countless studies show irrefutably our physical and mental health, creativity, productivity, moods, relationships, well, you get it – lives are better for the presence, if not abundance, of nature at home and at work. We are familiar with domesticating outside spaces, extending living areas out. To entertain, lounge, exercise, even work – with gazebos, impervious furniture and fabrics, decking, fire pits, barbecues, outdoor kitchens, all-seasons callisthenics equipment, garden pod offices,
Outside, the priority is to think how you want to use your space. On your own, or in company? To read, meditate, stretch, exercise, sleep, work, paint, enjoy a meal, a drink? Any time of day, mainly mornings, evenings, lunchtime, weekends? Looking at the space you have, think of its proportions. In a tight space, consider combining several options: adjustable deck chairs for upright / reclined positions, compact tables with stackable stools that fit underneath, for meals, work, leaving space for occasional sun salutations… Keep all pieces similar in finishes and colours, on an even, continuous flooring finish with fun accessories to add colour. This will allow your available space to be optimised, balanced and harmonious, never cramped. If your space is more generous, define areas for a couple of options from your wishlist – a seating/eating/working corner and an open space for lounging and/ or exercise, for example. Each of these can have a slightly different feel to them, complementary but distinct, in pieces and
“Conversely and very timely, “biophilic design” as it is called, invites the outside in.” 84 | EDUCATION CHOICES MAGAZINE | S U M M E R 2 02 2
