Herbal Haven: Embracing Nature in Home Decor
During my first trip to Spain this past week, I stayed in the city of Girona, a city best known for its historic Old Town architecture, picturesque bridges including the Eiffel Bridge (yes, this bridge was designed by the same guy who designed the Eiffel Tower), and rich cyclist touring culture.
While I absolutely loved everything about Girona, what I was most impressed by was the use of herbs in my quaint Airbnb situated just outside of the city center. My hostess had a unique style that felt like a page out of Country Living magazine. However, what stole the show outside of the home decor was the use of herbs throughout the small space.
Typically, most people (including myself) keep herbs in the fridge or in the spice cabinet for dried varieties like rosemary and thyme. However, my temporary Spanish home involved deeply integrated smatterings of these beautiful herbs in water-filled vases place upon shelves and tables, delicately placed in linen drawers, showcased as an elegant centerpiece for the dining table, perched overhead above the main bed, and neatly situated on a living wall in the patio space.
While this may seem like just a fun decorating idea for any home, there are actually quite a few benefits to incorporating herbs in this fashion for your own abode.
Natural fragrance:
Dried herbs infuse your home with natural, earthy fragrances, replacing synthetic scents with the genuine aroma of nature.
Aesthetically pleasing:
Herbs add visual charm to any space, turning them into natural works of art. The vibrant green hues and textures of dried herbs enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of any home.
Sensory delight:
Engaging multiple senses, dried herbs offer a sensory delight that goes beyond the visual. Touch, scent, and even taste are subtly stimulated, creating a holistic experience.
Cost-effective decor:
Decorating with dried herbs is a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to traditional decor. Herbs are readily available, and their longevity makes them a practical and eco-friendly choice.
Sustainable living:
Choosing dried herbs as a prominent decor element aligns with sustainable living practices. It's a gentle nod to a lifestyle that values natural resources, promotes eco-friendliness, and minimizes the ecological footprint associated with conventional home decor choices like synthetic materials and toxic fragrances.
Herb crafting:
Tap into your creative spirit by exploring herb-centric DIY projects. From herbal wreaths to potpourri sachets, the possibilities are endless. Engaging in these activities not only adds a personal touch to your home but also serves as a meditative and fulfilling pastime.
As I bid adios to my Spanish retreat, the lingering essence of dried herbs remains etched in my mind. By embracing herbs in this way, scents such as rosemary and thyme can weave an amazing tapestry of natural beauty throughout your home. Try transforming your living spaces into aromatic sanctuaries, where the benefits of nature seamlessly blend with the artistry of interior design.
