Beyond the Walls: Extending Neuroaesthetic Design to Your Outdoor Spaces

We have officially moved into alfresco dining on the deck! As the days lengthen and the warmth of spring is upon us, having meals outside gives us staycation vibes. One of our current projects is a large back deck. As we create this outdoor atmosphere for our clients, and notice how my own family enjoys our time together, it's very clear that neuroaesthetic principles do not stop at your doorstep. Our outdoor spaces, patios, decks, and terraces are extensions of our homes, offering the opportunity to increase livable areas, promote connection to each other, and enhance our complete sense of wellbeing.

Just as Elan Design meticulously crafts indoor environments to impact our client's brain and nervous system , we extend neuroaesthetic design to your outdoor spaces. As a good rule of thumb, all elements in a room should be able to moved into another room seamlessly. This concept also applies to your outside areas. Integrate the look and feel of those outdoor living areas with your indoor design, creating a harmonious flow between the two. This involves considering sight lines, materials, and color palettes that complement the interiors of your home.

These sisters relax under a wooden pergola, enjoying the serene view of the ocean in the distance. Lush greenery surrounds the cozy seating area, creating a peaceful retreat by the pool.

Neuroaesthetics out in the Open Air

Connection with Nature

Pottery, stone, and a natural woven rug are durable and represent Mother Nature's gifts of the earth.

We recognize the profound impact of biophilic design and our need to connect with nature. It is essential to experience thoughtfully composed spaces that offer a calming effect. A winding pathway, for instance, sparks curiosity, particularly when the journey leads to a rewarding destination. Placing a beautiful sculpture or clay pot at the end of such a path creates a sense of wonder and fascination.

The use of these natural materials draws upon our ancestral roots, grounding us in tradition. A flower bed, carefully designed with a blend of in-ground and potted plants in handcrafted pottery, strikes a harmonious balance between tranquility and intrigue, ultimately helping to regulate the nervous system.

Towels and throw blankets crafted from all-natural textiles enhance our connection to the earth. Water elements foster tranquility, deepening our bond with the environment. Birdsong, scientifically proven to elevate peace, is one of the most soothing sounds of all. By attracting a variety of birds to your outdoor spaces, you can create an unexpected symphony that further strengthens 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 this recent project, we were going to incorporate an oversized cantilever umbrella on the 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 of the sky, which is another instinct humans have.

We often play with shadows in bringing 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 bring this sense of nature inside. Think of incorporating these concepts into your outdoor environments. Ultimately when the outside environment aligns with the interior spaces, it promotes a noticeable added layer of synchronicity.

As the sun sets 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, as well as 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 connecting with friends and family. 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.

Not all outdoor chairs are created equal. Our vendors use weather resistant frames, filling, and fabrics to promote long lasting use with minimal maintenance. 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. Fabrics have an underlining that protects the inside filling, so when there is a weather event, you'll be able to sit on the seat cushions sooner rather than later. Our outdoor pillows are sources from the leading supplier of outdoor pillows. Their comfort and durability are second to none.

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 for 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.

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