By design and with functional purpose, Granny Flats have a smaller square meterage which makes interior design a different experience to decorating a larger dwelling. We recently wrote about how to best design the interior of your Granny Flat, and we wanted to share a health and wellbeing component of design that will make the most out of your space. That is, bringing in natural and plant elements to lift your space for Spring, as well as offer impressive health benefits and higher air quality. Incorporating natural elements into your granny flat design can create a refreshing and rejuvenating space that captures the essence of spring and brings the outdoors inside. Here are some ideas to help you achieve this.
Large windows and doors
The most literal way to bring the outdoors, in, is to have sunlight stream through larger windows and doors. Acrow Granny Flat designs are made to be fresh, open and functional, including offering windows that offer ample natural light. This creates a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of spring from the comfort of your granny flat. The trick is to position your Granny Flat to make the most of the sunlight hours, in the best possible way. Typically, orient the longest part of the granny flat, and the biggest door or window opening, in a north/south direction. This allows the northern, eastern, and western sides to receive the morning and afternoon sunlight.
Natural light brings more than just brightness – it’s a smart way to save money and energy. By using windows and daylighting techniques, you can reduce your reliance on electric lights and lower your bills. Natural light is also known to lift your spirits and enhance productivity. Recent research highlights its positive effects on well-being, especially in working from home spaces. It’s a great way to stay focused and boost your overall work attitude.
Indoor Plants
Place different-sized and kinds of indoor plants all around your area. Think about using potted plants, hanging planters, or even a vertical garden. Plants don’t just make things feel natural, they also make the air better and create a peaceful feeling.
Having plants in your home brings several health and wellbeing advantages. They improve indoor air quality by absorbing pollutants and releasing fresh oxygen, which can lead to easier breathing and a more comfortable environment. Plants also have a calming effect, reducing stress and promoting a sense of relaxation. Caring for plants can be therapeutic, offering a fulfilling and engaging activity. Overall, having plants around can enhance your mood, create a more pleasant atmosphere, and contribute to a healthier and happier living space.
Nature-inspired artwork
Natural elements can also bring joy, using artwork that displays scenes of nature like beautiful landscapes, pretty flowers, or animals in the wild. Even textural, neutral-toned artworks can evoke a sense of ‘nature’. These artworks can become the main things that draw your attention and can make your space feel like it’s connected to the outdoors.
These types of artwork or photography can instantly transport you to peaceful outdoor places and help you feel more connected to nature even when you’re indoors. Similarly, artwork featuring colourful flowers or charming wildlife can inject a touch of vibrant life into your surroundings, making your granny flat feel fresh and inviting.
Incorporating such nature-inspired artworks not only adds visual interest to your space but also provides a sense of tranquillity. This way, your granny flat becomes a cosy retreat that blends the comforts of indoor living with the refreshing feeling of the outdoors.
Aromatherapy and Scents
Infuse your granny flat with the delightful scents that bring to mind the freshness of springtime. Think about using scents like flowers or citrus fruits. You can achieve this by lighting scented candles, using essential oil diffusers, or placing potpourri around your space.
These scents have the power to instantly lift your mood, creating a cosy and relaxing atmosphere. Essential oil diffusers disperse natural scents throughout the air, allowing you to customise the fragrances according to your preferences. And for a more subtle and long-lasting effect, potpourri not only decorates your space but also releases pleasant aromas gradually, giving your granny flat a continuous springtime feel.
To bring spring in, adding natural things to your granny flat’s design can give you the right balance of nature and function. Putting all of these elements together thoughtfully can give you a space that shows off the loveliness of spring while also making sure it’s comfy and practical.