Transform Your Living Space with Biophilic Design

It is not a new or novel concept to incorporate nature and natural elements in the home. It feels like one of the most intuitive things one can do when designing and decorating. An approach like Feng Shui or Hygge are perfect examples of time-worn ways of arranging our home that seek to align with the natural world. Biophilic design is derived from biophilia, a term coined by naturalist E.O Wilson in his book published in 1984, to explain our affinity with the natural world. Biophilic design incorporates natural elements like plants, natural light, and organic materials into interior spaces. This can significantly enhance well-being and productivity.

Biophilic design is a thoughtful approach that reconnects your home with the soothing presence of nature.

Studies show occupants have an increased desire to linger, experience reduced stress levels, improved cognitive function, and have increased creativity in biophilic spaces . What’s more, environments designed with biophilic principles have been linked to faster recovery times in healthcare settings, aid hands on learning in education settings, honor culture and heritage, and provide greater overall satisfaction in workplaces, leisure spaces, and homes. By integrating natural elements into your interiors, you create a living space that is both visually appealing and beneficial to your well-being.

Bringing Biophilic Design Home

Plants and Animals

Houseplants in the home and sustainable landscaping that prioritizes native species is a great way to make nature take center space. Start small by placing a few favorite plants near windows or in corners that need life. Go full plant-parent by creating a living wall or shelves of plants.

Adding plants to a corner and in front of a window with a strategically placed mirror magnifies the impact of greenery in your space.

If you are in the design phase of building your home, consider maximizing access to the outdoors with large windows, skylights and designing for indoor-outdoor living. You can also add animals like fish with aquariums and ponds and follow principles that encourage biodiversity in your backyard.

Abundant Natural Light

Filtered light

Sheer or semi-sheer curtains in a linen finish add a warm organic look without sacrificing sunlight.

Maximize sunlight by using sheer curtains, mirrors, and layout strategies that allow light to flow freely. Natural light boosts mood and reduces eye strain. Understand how light moves in your space and the direction of your windows to maximize how you experience your space. Orient your furniture to fully enjoy nature, like setting a reading nook or desk by a window with a pleasant view.

Organic Materials

Use materials such as wood, stone, bamboo, and natural fibers in furniture, flooring, and decor. These textures bring warmth and authenticity to your space. When selecting furniture pieces or designing your home, lean into natural organic and curved lines that mimic nature. Also consider getting antique and heritage furniture pieces that have natural finishes for a timeless look.

Muted hues add calmness, while jewel tones add depth and excitement

Earthy Color Palettes

Choose colors inspired by nature—soft greens, browns, blues, and neutrals—which evoke calmness and harmony. Use soft, nature-inspired colors for a serene atmosphere. Get inspired by the ecosystem outside your home, pick a leaf, take a picture or be take in the nature smells and sounds around you as a starting point for your home design and decor.

Remember, biophilic design isn’t about overhauling your entire home—it’s about thoughtful touches that bring the outdoors in, making your living space a calm, inviting retreat.

We specialize in blending biophilic principles into interior design through our concept of dwellness. Reconnect your home with nature to create an environment that nourishes your body and soul.