We all know that spending time in nature is good for you. It clears the head of all the gunk.
Each of us has that perfect outdoor escape goal – a place you would like to return to again and again because it brings you peace. It could be a seaside retreat or a home with mountain views. Or maybe it’s the firepit or pool in your own backyard. The right garden furniture can also help to create a sense of calm – pieces inspired by the shapes and colors found in nature.
Read on for some of my favorite garden zen…
Featuring a molded back that has the look of an organic textile, I think the Branch dining chair by Janus et Cie is simply the best on the market. It is light and stackable, but more importantly, it is an incredibly comfortable place to spend an evening al fresco. I swear by these chairs.
What could be more nature inspired than these Beetle stools from Imperfetto Lab? The iridescent finish captures their namesake’s luminescence. I love the rounded forms and fun colors. They would be a welcome bit of playfulness tucked in among the landscaping.
And speaking of bugs (as one does in the garden), the shape of the FBC London Fiona chair has an undeniable praying mantis quality to me. It is a fresh take on an elegant shape and could work around an outdoor dining table or as a one off, sculptural addition to a seating area.
Flame has such a hypnotic influence, and these overscale (the tall shape is almost 40” high) oil candles from B&B Italia are about the prettiest way to light up that I’ve ever seen. They are zen and dramatic at the same time. A perfect addition to flank patio doors or below a window, they will add a soft glow to the space.
Zachary A Design has created a really special line of concrete outdoor pieces that look like paper. You really get the sense of crumbled, discarded artwork that’s been lovingly salvaged. In reality they are lightweight, functional tables, but they are also eye catching conversation starters.
This incredible teak “Spirit Song” bench looks like beach grass blowing in the wind. Or maybe a caterpillar inching along. The smooth, flowing shape is peaceful and sculptural–perfect in the shade of a beautiful tree.
I really couldn’t talk zen and garden without showing you my ideal outdoor table. First of all, it’s round, which I love – so relaxed and social. But I’m crazy about the base. The name Tobi Ishi refers to the polished stones often used in Japanese gardens, and it’s giving me all the calming vibes.
