The Great Indoors

Bringing the Outside In

by Kelley Granger, September 26, 2007

If you enjoy taking a hike in the woods, lingering in your garden, or relaxing by the lake, you may be doing more for yourself than you realize. Research continues to back up Harvard biologist E. O. Wilson’s theory of biophilia, which inextricably links human happiness with nature. Ponder this: Have you ever paid more to spend a night in a hotel room with a view of the ocean or mountains? Sent flowers to a sick friend in the hospital? Felt gloomy being cooped up in the midst of winter? Studies suggest that exposure to natural elements like wood, water, and plants can lift your mood, reduce stress, and make you more productive. With colder, shorter days approaching, consider the addition of these natural elements—whether a complete room revamping or a couple of small touches to perk up your spirit and the ambiance of your home.

Wood you like to feel better?
Different kinds of flooring, sculpture, and even lighting accents made of wood can bring an earthy feel to any room. Dominic Carota, president of Blair House Interiors of Latham, says that growing concern for the environment coupled with an increased desire for natural looks has put some interesting options for flooring in the limelight.

“What we’ve been finding with our clients is that they’ve determined for us what the mission is for their home—often they want to make environmentally responsible choices, and our job is to do that,” Carota says. For clients that request hardwood floors, Blair House Interiors has been working with Carlisle Wide Plank Floors, which uses reclaimed wood from old barns and other structures. The allure of this option is not only the environmental benefit of recycling wood, but the opportunity to admire the historical character of rare and even extinct wood—like the antique chestnut boards that the company recovers from barns, farmhouses, and other old buildings.

Carota says another trend in natural flooring is cork, which is made from the bark of the cork oak. The tree is able to survive and regenerate new growth, making it an optimal choice when considering sustainability. Cork tiles come in a variety of looks, resist pressure and moisture, are softer and warmer underfoot than most other flooring, and have excellent acoustic properties that absorb vibration.

Both Carota and Barbara DeStefano, an interior designer and certified Feng Shui consultant in Port Ewen, say that they have become fans of bamboo flooring for its sustainability and visual appeal. “I love the look of bamboo floors,” DeStefano says. “And I love using them because they’re a very sustainable element. There are many different varieties and they’re absolutely beautiful.” Like cork, bamboo can be harvested without killing the root, allowing additional growth.