Martha Stewart's entryway elegantly 'brings the outdoors in' – here's how she makes her historic home feel closer to nature
The entryway at the home star's Skylands property features large, Japanese screens hanging as artwork, creating a serene atmosphere
Out of Martha Stewart's various properties, her Maine estate, Skylands, has been on our radar lately. Stewart has been dutifully documenting the renovations to her expansive, Duncan Candler-designed home on her Instagram page, and the latest reveal is especially striking.
The home's entryway has undergone a facelift via the addition of large, Japanese screens, which hang high on the walls above wood paneling. The ambiance from the natural materials is continued through the space's stone floors, and large plants sitting atop the sleek console, while candled sconces bring an antique feel to the area.
'Two beautiful 18th-century Japanese screens were just hung so artfully on two opposing walls high up in the double-story entry hall,' Stewart states in the post's caption. 'I call it “bringing the outdoors in“ which is a recurring theme in this 1925 gracious home.' It's a masterclass in decorating with antiques.
A post shared by Martha Stewart (@marthastewart48)
A photo posted by on
According to experts, introducing artwork into a space is one of the best ways to play with existing color palettes, while introducing new shades and shapes into a space.
'Incorporate artwork and accessories that highlight neutral tones but with a maximalist twist,' says designer Nina Lichtenstein. 'Large-scale abstract paintings with splashes of white, taupe, and gray, or an array of ceramics in varying shades of off-white, can create a gallery-like feel.'
Stewart's screens feature snow-white trees, while the background is a blend of light brown and gray. The neutral palette of the artwork perfectly complements the soft colors in the entryway, while the large imagery creates a focal point.
'Artwork that depicts landscapes, botanicals, sunsets, or wildlife can further bring the outdoors inside,' Lichtenstein continues. 'Such artwork can serve as strategic focal points and add visual interest to your walls.'
Sign up to the Homes & Gardens newsletter
Design expertise in your inbox – from inspiring decorating ideas and beautiful celebrity homes to practical gardening advice and shopping round-ups.
The concept of bringing the outdoors in, as Stewart states, is beneficial for both aesthetic and mental health purposes.
'Nature-inspired home decor has an enduring appeal and charm that transcends trends and seasons, bringing a sense of tranquility and balance into any living space,' Lichtenstein explains. 'By integrating elements of the natural world into your home, you create an environment that not only looks beautiful but also promotes well-being and serenity.'
Incorporating indoor plants into a space automatically helps purify the air and ease the mind, while organic details such as the rock doorstopper and stone flooring conjure images of natural landscapes within the home.
Lichtenstein recommends that anyone looking for a unique take on nature-inspired decor enlist craftsmen to design one-of-a-kind, made-to-last work for the home.
'Collaborating with craftsmen to create bespoke furniture and accents can elevate your nature-inspired decor,' Lichtenstein states. 'Whether it’s a handcrafted dining table made from locally sourced wood or custom pottery that incorporates natural textures and colors, these items add a unique, personal element to your home. Custom-made creations not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also tell a story, reflecting your personality and connection to nature.'
Metallic
This vintage Japanese screen features magnificent artwork, depicting a natural scene.
Natural
This sturdy, stone bowl can act as a catch-all in the entryway and doubles as a statement piece.
Earthy Texture
This handcrafted vase would look fantastic holding some delicate, dried flowers.
We recommend starting with subtle touches of nature in the home, whether that is a stone doorstopper, like Stewart's, or even just a fresh-cut bouquet of flowers. A blend of items inspired by the natural world and accessories directly from nature will take home to the next level.
Hannah is Homes & Gardens’ News Editor, with a focus on celebrity style and entertainment content. She got her start in media as a digital editorial assistant at ELLE Canada, and has since written about lifestyle and culture for publications such as Nylon and i-D.
Her love of film is rivalled only by one with a great soundtrack, and she hopes to someday decorate a Nancy Meyers-worthy kitchen.
-
Best lightweight vacuums 2024 – easy-to-carry cordless and upright vacuums that don't sacrifice on cleaning power
Of the 53 vacuum cleaners we've tested, these are the four lightweight models that can suit any home and budget
By Dan Fauzi Published
-
I found not one, but two Le Creuset holiday sales – they won't last long, so here's what I'm adding my cart tonight
Time to scoop up stocking fillers, mugs, bowls, and the ultimate holiday centerpiece
By Lydia Hayman Published
-
Drew Barrymore's Beautiful collection embraces flower power – this one item literally lights up a room
The latest decor drop includes a vintage-inspired flower lamp, which retails for under $48 – and it was the first thing in our carts
By Hannah Ziegler Published
-
Diane Keaton's new decor collection is a celebration of wit and playful irreverence – directly inspired by her quirky home
The collaboration offers a humorous twist to the most simple color palette of all – bringing Keaton's flare to our entertaining spaces
By Megan Slack Published
-
RuPaul's kitchen is sleek and sophisticated thanks to this unexpected cabinet color
RuPaul's black kitchen cabinets are undeniably bold, yet have a surprisingly soothing effect that get the expert stamp of approval
By Hannah Ziegler Published
-
Justin Baldoni's anti-trend kitchen cabinet color serves as the perfect 'blank canvas' – this style will never fade
The actor knows that this color transcends fads, so he used it for his kitchen cabinets - experts swear by the classic, calming shade
By Sophie Edwards Published
-
Cynthia Nixon's sofa color is a 'cornerstone in modern interior design' – it's a classic for a reason
Cynthia Nixon's gray sofa proves that the neutral hue is anything but outdated, pairing the soft shade with some warm, natural materials for a trendy look
By Hannah Ziegler Published
-
Pastry chef Dominique Ansel shares the 3 most useful appliances every home baker needs in their kitchen
The celebrity pastry chef swears by these pieces of equipment to level up your home baking - and explains the one item he can't live without
By Sophie Edwards Published
-
Martha Stewart's dining room taps into this timely trend – here's how to recreate the look
Martha Stewart's Skylands property in Maine has been decked out with a summer-ready tablescape, featuring collectible plates and coveted glassware
By Hannah Ziegler Published
-
Jamie Lee Curtis's luxurious bedding is a favorite among sleep experts – and it's surprisingly low-maintenance
Jamie Lee Curtis's bedding has benefits for skin, hair, and sleeping temperature - experts say it is exceedingly simple to care for
By Sophie Edwards Published