Growing up near a national park, surrounded by towering sequoias and waterfalls, sparked Vanessa Helmick’s lifelong passion for nature. That love of the outdoors eventually blossomed into a love of design—and, 19 years into her career as an interior designer, she now describes her style as textured and warm, modern yet practical, with a focus on durability and comfort, and always inspired by the natural world. Interior designer Vanessa Helmick of Fiore Home shares seven designs shaped by the outdoors.
1. NESTLED NIGHTSTAND
I find that guests are appreciative of nightstands with storage—and this solid wood Spindle nightstand, with its open niche and deep drawer underneath, offers clean lines and functionality that withstands trends.
2. SPACE-SAVING LIGHTING
Sconces work to light up small places and save space. That is the very reason I love using them instead of lamps. Replicating lines of falling water, the texture of the hand-cast stoneware shades on the Tumwater Sconce reflects the natural world. And the Tumwater Wood Arm Sconce comes in both hardwired and plug-in options.
3. HAND-DYED OMBRE
Instead of a bunch of little pillows on a bed, I love keeping it simple with one oversized, dramatic lumbar pillow—it instantly adds that “wow” focal point of the room. It also is much easier to make the bed with less pillows!
4. BEDROOM OASIS
Crafted with sustainably sourced FSC certified wood, the Spindle bed is a perfect blend of Belgian simplicity and warmth. Vertical lines and a small footprint make it a modern classic.
5. GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP
I sleep on European Flax certified linen because it is comfortable and sustainable. Linen is breathable and helps to regulate body temperature. Nature’s design for the best sleep ever—because quality rest is everything.
6. EVERYDAY HEIRLOOM
Lauren Herzak-Bauman creates beautiful, usable art. The Small Chisel Vase is unmistakably one-of-a-kind. The ocean-inspired blue-green glaze is one of an array of colors and textures that change with the seasons. It features artisan quality that just isn’t found in mass produced products.
7. WALLS OF ART
The Down the Rabbit Hole print is an original transposed ink painting of bold brushstrokes brought to life as wallpaper. Patterns printed on grasscloth are a favorite of mine. Poppy Print Studio is a female led artistic wallpaper company based out of the Midwest.
