Scented geraniums are planted at the front door for a fragrant welcome – or farewell – 'handshake'. Rounded, aged bricks are laid on the ground outside and inside of that door. Treasures from 'street combing' are in evidence and constantly change so they are continually 'seen': a gorgeous leaf, an interesting stone, a blue box bottle, a bright copper penny.
A natural serenity prevails indoors: fir floors, cedar bookshelves, pine box coffee table, maple chairs and chesterfield, jute rugs, large tree branch 'starred' with mini lights, cotton and linen textured curtains. Windows that open, and a good feng shui layout of pathways for flow of light and air, complement the ambiance.
The furniture is grouped in all the rooms to face outdoors. And the garden has been planted – or allowed to roam – to give views and vistas. Watching birds at a feeder, the movement of clouds, sway of trees and vines, squirrels on a highway wire, are endlessly soothing and fascinating. Conversation between people becomes meaningful when the eyes are thus engaged.
The kitchen is the hub of the house around which indoors/outdoors revolve with the least barrier between. Windows and doors lead directly to a flagstoned patio where the table can be immediately whisked for sudden outdoor dining. The patio leads to different garden rooms with walls of bushes or lattice, reclaimed-wood fences, instant rebar pergolas covered by vines. And comfortable seating everywhere.
The attic is necessary living space in an indoor/outdoor home. The immediacy of the roof allows for the sound of the rain. Skylights, low to the eaves, encompassing bed and chair, sewing machine, bathtub, offer the best of both environments. Skylights, higher in the peak, draw in clouds and stars, birds riding the wind, rainbows, the horizon.
Nature, human and otherwise, is beckoned to and welcomed by a natural habitat house. Why? Because it makes us feel good. It's simple, affordable, beneficial to the environment, aesthetically pleasing, worthwhile. It spreads, as first time visitors look around and say, "Hey, I could do this…" And go home and do it.
It's a way of seeing. A way of being. A tangible means of turning the notion that the "grass is always greener…" back to our very own space, wherever and whatever it may be.
Nature provides solace, sanctuary, silliness. It's only an attitude away.