The Soothing Simplicity of Moss-Based Home Decor

In an age dominated by sleek, high-tech surfaces and relentless visual stimulation, there is a growing yearning for a return to more elemental, grounding forms of beauty. And few materials embody this ethos more perfectly than moss.

Once considered a mere nuisance – something to be scrubbed off patio stones or rooftops – moss is now enjoying a veritable renaissance in the realm of home decor. From lush, trailing “moss walls” to three-dimensional moss carpets that seemingly float above the floor, these verdant, textural creations are captivating designers and homeowners alike. But the appeal of moss-based furnishings extends far beyond their striking visual allure.

As research in the fields of ecopsychology and environmental aesthetics has demonstrated, the presence of natural elements in our living spaces can have a profound impact on our mental, emotional, and even physical wellbeing.[1] The soothing, biophilic qualities of materials like wood, stone, and yes, moss, have been shown to lower stress levels, boost mood and focus, and instill a sense of calm and comfort. It is as if these raw, elemental forms tap into some deep, primal part of the human psyche – a vestigial memory of our ancestral connection to the natural world.

Moss, in particular, seems to possess an almost magical ability to cultivate this restorative, meditative state. Perhaps it is the softness of its velvety fronds, the gentle undulations of its organic forms, or the subtle richness of its earthy hues. Whatever the precise mechanism, spending time in the presence of a moss-based installation has a decidedly grounding, centering effect – almost like a physical manifestation of the Japanese concept of “forest bathing.”

This soothing, therapeutic quality is a key driver behind the growing popularity of moss decor. In an era of near-constant digital overstimulation and urban isolation, these natural, low-maintenance creations offer a much-needed respite. As one homeowner remarked after installing a three-dimensional moss carpet in her living room, “It’s like having a little slice of the forest right here in my own space. I find myself just sitting on it, running my hands through the moss, and instantly feeling my stress melt away.”[2]

But the appeal of moss-based home furnishings extends beyond their mental and emotional benefits. These verdant designs also offer a refreshingly distinctive aesthetic that harmonizes beautifully with a wide range of contemporary decor styles. The organic, primitive qualities of moss create a lovely counterpoint to the clean lines and minimalist sensibilities that dominate modern interior design.

A hanging moss wall, for instance, can lend a raw, elemental accent to an otherwise sleek, high-tech living space, softening the hard edges and infusing the room with a sense of natural vitality. Likewise, a moss-covered coffee table or side table introduces a captivating textural contrast that elevates the overall design. And those three-dimensional moss carpets I mentioned earlier? They possess an almost sculptural quality that allows them to function as stunning, conversation-starting focal points within a space.[3]

Of course, the appeal of moss-based decor isn’t limited to its therapeutic and aesthetic virtues. These natural creations also offer practical advantages that make them an increasingly viable option for eco-conscious consumers. Unlike traditional carpets or upholstery, which are often made from petroleum-based synthetic fibers, moss-based furnishings are 100% biodegradable and compostable. This not only reduces their environmental impact, but also allows homeowners to “renew” their decor seamlessly when the moss reaches the end of its lifecycle.

Additionally, moss is a remarkably hardy, low-maintenance plant that requires only minimal care to thrive indoors. Unlike finicky houseplants that demand regular watering and pruning, moss walls and carpets can maintain their lush, vibrant appearance with little more than the occasional misting. This user-friendly quality is a boon for busy homeowners who want to incorporate natural elements into their spaces without the hassle of high-maintenance greenery.

Ultimately, the rise of moss-based home decor represents a heartening shift in our collective design sensibilities. In an era dominated by synthetic, climate-controlled environments, these natural, biophilic creations offer a potent antidote – a means of reestablishing our fundamental connection to the rhythms and textures of the living world. Whether adorning a sleek modern living room or lending a rustic, restorative ambiance to an urban loft, moss-based furnishings possess an almost alchemical power to nurture both our physical spaces and our inner landscapes.

As an educator, it is my sincere hope that the therapeutic and design benefits of moss will continue to inspire designers, artists, and homeowners alike. For in reclaiming the humble, ubiquitous moss as a material of remarkable beauty and power, we rediscover our own capacity for simplicity, for slowness, and for deeply nourishing the soul.

1. See, for example, the work of Stephen Kaplan on the restorative effects of natural environments, or the research of environmental psychologist Roger Ulrich on the health benefits of biophilic design.
2. Quote from an interview with a homeowner featured in Dwell magazine, June 2023 issue.
3. For examples of innovative moss-based furniture and decor, see the work of designers like Satoshi Kawamoto, Joanna Grawunder, and Fernando Mastrangelo.