— Thomas Merton

But, you might ask, how do we let more nature in when we live in cities full of pollution? Or maybe we live in the country but there are rodents? Or we have an air con on full blast in the summer and heat on high during the winter. How, pray tell, do we live amongst nature as modern humans?

Well, dear reader, I'm here to help you bring the outdoors in, while maintaining your delicate modern lifestyle. It's easier than you may think. And you may already be following some of these design principles, but we can bring some emphasis to them. So you can transform your space into a place Thomas Merton would like to have tea at.

The entryway—in Feng Shui, it's where the chi flows in and out. In Vastu Shastra, its position is said to influence prosperity, health, and well-being. The Yoruba people of West Africa place amulets and spiritual symbols at the entrance for protection. And Westerners, well, it's mostly just a doorway.

Let's shift that. Not by appropriating other cultures, but by recognizing what they all see in the door, its inherent power. Add seating outside that can transition from in to out.

One of my go-to pieces for this transition is the Mo Pine Side Table—weather-resistant and gracefully sculpted, it becomes a subtle hub linking indoors with outdoors. Set drinks or arrange fresh flowers atop it, creating a welcoming moment of pause right at the threshold.

There is always a time and a place for a velvet chaise lounge. But when designing for indoor/outdoor, material that can handle the sun is clutch.

Take the Two-Piece Loveseat ($2,230)—it features UV-resistant fabrics and quick-dry properties, perfect for any environment. This piece can be at home on your patio or indoors without skipping a beat.

For something a bit more flexible, consider the Chaucer Ottoman ($805). Its all-weather construction makes it an easy, stylish addition to any space, indoors or out. Plus, it's lightweight enough to move as needed.

To spark the mystic in you, emphasize natural light. And views of whatever nature you can see—whether it's a sliver of the city sky, or your neighbor's unmanicured lawn. No judgement, if there's some nature to be seen, it might be worth the view.

Ideally, you have at least one window in your living space that has a view of either the sky or some trees. Treat that like a wall painting you're super proud of. And keep it unobstructed.

• Maximize Views: Large windows and sliding doors bring the outdoors inside, offering an unobstructed view and allowing natural light to flow.
• Optimize Natural Light: Ensure your space is illuminated by natural light, but also plan for shade or protection when needed.
• Temperature Management: Whether using fans in summer or blankets in winter, make sure your space is always comfortable. The Winnie Linen Throw is perfect for seasonal layering, for a morning coffee in Spring or evening wine during Fall.

Whether it's movable, all-weather furniture near a French doorway, or folding chairs (Kafka Teak Folding Chair) that can move from your garden area to your game room—investing in pieces that can move is the ultimate way to create an entertainment-ready home.

If you have an outdoor seating area, emphasize natural surroundings with plants that are also happy indoors. Shifting them in during the cold months, and out for outdoor gatherings is an easy way to welcome in the spirits of nature without building a jungle in your home.

By thoughtfully integrating natural elements and flexible design, your home will feel like a seamless extension of itself—indoors and out. So go ahead, open up those doors, and let nature in. Thomas Merton may return from other realms just to sit on your back porch and read a book.