Biophilic Design: Welcoming Nature Into Interiors

Humans have an innate attraction to nature. Is there a healthy design trend?

Biophilia means love for nature. The concept focuses on the innate connection with nature that we have as humans. The term was popularized in the 80s by American biologist Edward Osborne Wilson when he observed how increasing rates of urbanization were leading to a disconnection with the natural world and how a connection with it is essential to our health and well-being. That is where Biophilic Design comes in!

The world of design trends is ever changing and expanding. One of the most recent interior design trends is Biophilic Design, which uses the principle of the importance of nature to health and well-being in order to create a human-centered approach that improves the many spaces we live and work on with natural elements, collecting all the potential benefits that may come from it.

The benefits

The direct or indirect incorporation of elements of nature to build a more natural environment has been demonstrated to reduce stress, blood pressure levels and heart rates while increasing productivity, creativity and self-reported reates of well-being.

Take a look at this comprehensive list of potential physical and economical benefits:

Increased focus;
Increased creativity;
Increased productivity;
Increased general well-being;
Soothing and restorative effects – reduced stress levels;
Better air quality;
Better aesthetics – plants come in an infinite variety of shapes and colors;
Reduces sick days;
Post-operative recovery times and usage of pain medication are greatly reduced;
Areas with access to nature command lower crime rates and increases in property prices;
People are willing to pay more for natural views and biophilic elements when renting/buying houses or making reservations.

How to implement biophilic design

Even as great as it is, biophilic design must, however, be implemented correctly in order to optimize health benefits and potential monetary savings. Here are some tips to achieve a nice and beneficial ambience. These tips can be implemented in both decor and architectural features:

COLORS

Make sure you use tones such as earthy colors and aquatic blues. It is crucial to opt for hues that are evocative of nature.

SHAPES

Do not use harsh geometric shapes. Go for smooth surfaces and avoid rough edges. Be more natural and choose shapes such as lines and curves.

LIGHT

Natural light, of course! Sunlight is healthy for us and helps bringing the inside and outside.

PLANTS

Real plants! They will bring nature into the room. Of course you don’t have to turn the room into a jungle, but make sure plants are included.

NATURE ELEMENTS

You can also use decorations that evoke plants and even animals, such as a stylish natural wallpaper. Also, water! If you can somehow include water into your setting, benefits would be greatly increased. A water fountain, even if a small one, would provide the extremely soothing sounds of running water.

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