Martha Stewart's entryway elegantly 'brings the outdoors in' – here's how she makes her historic home feel closer to nature

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.

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.'

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.'

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.