Bring the Outdoors Inside: 6 Tips from Thom Filicia

At this time of year, I want to spend as much time outside as possible. The weather is warm, everything’s in bloom, and there’s nothing better for cheering up my mood than a little sun. Unfortunately, that not always possible … a girl has to work after all!

A few weeks ago, I attended an event hosted by Thom Filicia, a well-known interior designer who you may know from Queer Eye for the Straight Guy among other shows. Thom has partnered with Bounce Bursts, a new in-wash laundry detergent that helps you experience outdoor freshness even if you’re stuck inside.

I was lucky enough to spend some one-on-one time with Thom, who shared a few simple ways to bring the outdoors inside. Here are his 6 tips!

Don’t be afraid of bright colors.

Bright colors, especially those inspired by nature, can truly transform a space. Go bold and paint your walls a vibrant color. If that seems too risky, introduce color through accessories, such as pillows or throws.

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Add fresh flowers to your space.

Fresh flowers are the perfect way to enjoy the scent and the beauty of the outdoors while inside. Look for affordable bouquets at your supermarket or corner store, and display them in your favorite vase.

I like to search for unique vases at thrift stores. You can transform a secondhand vase with a little spray paint so that it fits perfectly in your space.

Switch up your patterns and layer your materials.

Thom suggested being playful with fabrics. Try mixing floral-inspired patterns and colors into your home to help evoke an outdoorsy feeling.

Don’t forget about using natural materials in your home. Mixing natural elements, such as wood, metal, and stone, also helps to bring the outdoors inside.

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Transform your fabrics.

Is there anything better than the smell of line-dried laundry? My mom always hung our laundry outside when I was growing up, but as a city-dweller, I’ve never been able to do that myself.

Look for laundry detergents and products with fresh, floral-inspired scents, which are known to stimulate the senses and improve mood and energy. I received a Bounce Bursts sample at this event and have it stored in my hall closet. Every time I open the closet door, I’m met with a wonderful burst of fresh air!

Blur the lines.

According to Thom, there’s really no difference in how you decorate from outdoors to indoors, so blur the lines a little!

There’s lots of ways you can do this. Use indoor/outdoor rugs in high traffic areas like the kitchen or laundry room. Outdoor fabrics are easy to keep clean, making them perfect for kids’ rooms. Bring all-weather baskets (perfect for holding firewood) and other outdoor accessories inside, too.

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Invest in outdoor-inspired artwork.

Artwork is a great way to evoke to spirit of the outdoors. Try hanging a picture from your favorite outdoor adventure or an abstract painting that reminds you of a beautiful sunset.

Not only will it boost your mood, but it will elevate the look and feel of your space as well.

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Do you have any tips to help bring the outdoors inside? I’d love to hear them!

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