The combination of nature & design

Anyone who has been following my studio for a few years will know that I started by drawing nature illustrations, which I primarily used to design cards. At some point, I added three-dimensional design—of interiors and, increasingly, exteriors. The theme of nature has been a recurring theme throughout all my projects.

Over the years, my fascination with the sheer beauty nature offers us has grown. If only we're open to perceiving it, and how good it is for us when we surround ourselves with it. Directly, through walks in the forest or digging in the garden. But also indirectly, through our diet, natural fibers and natural cosmetics on our skin, or natural materials in our homes, such as furniture, paints, or carpets.

Of course, we should be aware that everything we consume impacts nature. I've given this a lot of thought in my work as a garden designer. Isn't every "undesigned" piece of nature the better alternative? My answer to that is a resounding yes and no. If I were to transform a meadow into a sterile garden with a neat, weed-free lawn, concrete pavers, and cherry laurel, it would be a resounding yes (not to mention that I would never do that). But when it comes to unsealing areas, making urban outdoor spaces greener, and gardens more inviting, so that people can reconnect with and appreciate nature, my answer is no.

And so it is, as is so often the case: there is no black and white. But there are wonderful examples of how design can integrate with nature, strengthening and enhancing it rather than subjugating it. That is my wish and my attitude as a designer, and I am happy for anyone who develops a similar joy in designing with and in nature.