Ever wish you didn’t have to leave nature when you came indoors? Step into the world of biophilic interior design my friends!
Imagine living in spaces that bring the serenity of the outdoors, indoors.
With the ridiculous amount of time we spend indoors between home and work, this design style is the reprieve you’ve been waiting for!
Biophilia is more than just a trend; it’s a lifestyle that blends our living spaces with elements of nature.
When applied to interior design, it leads to spaces that not only look beautiful, but also enhance our wellbeing, health, and productivity.
What is Biophilic Interior Design?
Biophilic interior design is a concept that embraces the innate human desire to connect with nature.
The term “biophilia” originates from the Greek words “philia,” meaning love, and “bio,” meaning life. It was first introduced by the psychoanalyst Erich Fromm and later popularized by the biologist Edward O. Wilson.
In the context of design, biophilia involves incorporating elements of the natural world into built environments.
The goal is to create spaces that mimic the qualities and experiences of nature, ultimately enhancing the well-being and health of you and your favorite people. Oh, this is exciting!
Benefits of Biophilic Interior Design
- Improved well-being: Studies have shown that exposure to nature has a positive impact on our physical and mental well-being.
- Enhanced productivity: The presence of greenery, natural light, and views of nature can inspire innovative thinking, improve focus, and increase job satisfaction.
- Better air quality: Plants act as natural air purifiers by absorbing harmful pollutants and releasing oxygen.
- Stress reduction: Nature has a soothing effect on our nervous systems and can help alleviate stress. Elements like water features and natural materials create a sense of tranquility.
- Increased connection to the environment: Biophilic design encourages individuals to reconnect with the natural world, fostering a sense of environmental awareness and responsibility.
By incorporating elements of nature into our built environments, we can create spaces that promote health, productivity, and a deeper connection to the natural world.
Seriously, who wouldn’t want this?
Check out this article on the benefits of biophilic design!
What are the Characteristics of Biophilic Interior Design?
Lets look into the characteristics that make this design style unique!
Biophilic Interior Design Elements
In this section, we will explore the key elements of biophilic interior design and provide tips on how to implement them into your space.
Visual Connection
One of the fundamental aspects of biophilic design is creating a visual connection with nature.
This can be achieved by positioning furniture to offer views of natural elements, such as trees or gardens, through windows.
If you don’t have access to expansive outdoor views, you can still bring nature indoors by incorporating live plants throughout your home.
Hanging photos or paintings of natural landscapes and animals can also create a sense of connection to the outdoors.
Dynamic & Diffuse Natural Light
Exposure to natural light helps regulate our sleep-wake cycles and enhances our mood and productivity.
While windows are an obvious choice to bring in natural light, there are other creative ways to achieve this effect. Skylights, for example, can introduce light from different angles, creating a dynamic ambiance.
Additionally, positioning large plants in front of windows can filter the light, infusing the space with a gentle green hue.
How to increase natural light in your home.
Non-Visual Connection
Incorporating non-visual natural elements like scent, sound, and touch can create a more immersive experience.
Consider using essential oils or natural fragrance diffusers to infuse your space with the refreshing scents of nature.
Adding nature sounds, such as gentle rain or birdsong, can evoke a sense of tranquility.
Finally, incorporating natural textures, like wood or stone, into your furniture or decor can provide a tactile connection to the natural world.
Natural Materials and Colors
Opt for furniture made from wood, bamboo, or rattan to bring a touch of nature into your space.
Natural colors, such as earth tones and shades of green and blue, can also create a soothing and harmonious atmosphere reminiscent of the outdoors.
Biophilic Patterns and Shapes
Incorporating patterns and shapes found in nature can create a more organic and harmonious environment.
Consider using wallpapers or fabrics with floral or leaf patterns to mimic the intricate designs found in the natural world.
Furniture with curved or flowing shapes can also evoke a sense of movement and grace, reminiscent of natural forms.
These subtle design choices can contribute to a more visually appealing and emotionally satisfying space.
Living Walls and Vertical Gardens
Living walls, also known as green walls or vertical gardens, are an excellent way to bring nature indoors, especially in urban environments with limited outdoor space.
Water Features
The soothing sound of flowing water can create a calming and peaceful atmosphere. Incorporating water features, such as indoor fountains or small tabletop waterfalls, can enhance the biophilic experience.
The Pillars of Biophilic Design
There are three main pillars that form the foundation of biophilic design:
1. Nature in the Space
The first pillar of biophilic design focuses on incorporating natural elements directly into the environment.
This can be achieved by adding potted plants, both large and small, throughout the space.
2. Natural Analogues
The second pillar of biophilic design uses man-made elements that mimic nature. These elements help us feel connected to the natural world, even when we don’t have direct access to it.
3. Nature of the Space
Biophilic design’s third pillar explores how the arrangement of spaces and architectural design impact our physical and emotional reactions.
It taps into our natural preference for specific types of environments. It appeals to our innate affinity for certain types of environments.
For more information on biophilic interior design and how to implement these principles into your own space, you can visit the following resources:
- Biophilic Design: The Architecture of Life
- Terrapin Bright Green
- Biophilic Design: Connecting People to Nature
Now, lets practice putting all this goodness into your home!
Biophilic Interior Design Bedroom: Creating a Serene Retreat
Plants: Nature’s Mood Boosters
Incorporating plants in your bedroom is a simple and effective way to bring nature’s beauty inside.
Consider bringing in plants like
- Snake plants
- Spider plants
- Boston ferns
They’re not only pretty but also purify the air by removing toxins. These low-maintenance plants are great for bedrooms as they can thrive in low-light and need minimal care.
To boost the nature vibes in your bedroom, add plants in key spots like your bedside table, dresser, or windowsill.
The green foliage will create a calming and soothing ambiance, helping you relax and get ready for a good night’s sleep.
Paint Colors: Setting the Mood for Relaxation
The colors we surround ourselves with can have a profound impact on our mood and overall well-being.
Opting for soothing and nature-inspired hues can create a serene and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a long day.
Try using soothing colors like soft blues, greens, or purples for your bedroom walls.
For a healthier space, choose zero-VOC paints like Benjamin Moore Natura or AFM Safecoat.
Open Windows: Connecting with the Outdoors
Open your bedroom windows to see and feel the natural world, bringing calm and relaxation.
Breathing in fresh air and feeling the gentle breeze can greatly reduce stress and prepare your mind and body for better sleep.
It also improves the air quality in your bedroom, creating a healthier and more rejuvenating sleep environment.
Make it a habit to open your windows regularly, especially before bedtime, to allow for a refreshing exchange of air.
Add a Water Feature
The gentle sound of flowing water can create a soothing atmosphere, while the visual appeal of a water feature can serve as a focal point.
Biophilic Inspired Mattress
One of the key elements to consider when designing a biophilic bedroom is the choice of mattress.
A comfortable and eco-friendly mattress can enhance the overall experience and promote better sleep quality.
Here are some mattress choices that align with biophilic interior design principles:
Organic Latex Mattress
Made from natural materials, such as latex derived from rubber trees, these mattresses are free from harmful chemicals and synthetic additives.
They are also highly durable and provide excellent support for your body.
Natural Fiber Mattress
These mattresses are made from materials like cotton, wool, or bamboo, which are renewable and biodegradable.
Natural fiber mattresses offer
- Breathability
- Moisture-wicking properties
- Temperature regulation
Additionally, they are hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, making them a great choice for individuals with allergies.
Sustainable Memory Foam Mattress
If you like memory foam, you can find sustainable options.
Look for CertiPUR-US certified memory foam mattresses that are made without harmful chemicals and have low VOC emissions.
Choose mattresses made with eco-friendly materials and processes, like plant-based foams or recycled materials.
Adjustable Air Mattress
If you and your partner have different sleep preferences, an adjustable air mattress is a great choice for a biophilic bedroom.
These mattresses let you customize the firmness on each side of the bed for maximum comfort. Look for eco-friendly air mattresses with minimal off-gassing.
Hybrid Mattress
A hybrid mattress combines the best of both worlds with elements from innerspring and foam mattresses.
They have coils for support and memory foam or latex for comfort.
When picking a hybrid mattress for your nature-inspired bedroom, go for ones made with organic materials and sustainable practices.
Biophilic Interior Design Living Room
Now we will explore how to incorporate biophilic interior design elements into the living room, turning it into a tranquil and rejuvenating oasis.
Natural Elements and Materials
One of the key principles of biophilic interior design is the use of natural elements and materials like wood, stone and natural fabrics.
To incorporate these elements, choose sustainable wood furniture or add a stone accent wall to your living room.
Abundant Natural Light
Natural light is a crucial element of biophilic interior design. It not only enhances the overall aesthetic of the space but also has a positive impact on our mood and well-being.
To get more natural light in your living room, remove heavy window coverings, use sheer curtains, or add skylights. Letting in more sunlight makes the room brighter and more welcoming.
Indoor Plants and Greenery
Adding indoor plants and greenery is a great way to bring biophilic design into your living room. They not only look beautiful but also clean the air and reduce stress.
Mix it up with different plants to create an interesting indoor garden. Hanging, potted, or vertical gardens all work well for a more biophilic living room.
Nature-Inspired Color Palette
I recommend a nature-inspired color palette. Earthy tones, such as greens, browns, and blues, create a calming and soothing atmosphere.
Consider incorporating these colors through your choice of wall paint, furniture upholstery, or decorative accents.
Views to the Outdoors
Connecting your living room to the natural world outside is another important aspect of biophilic design.
If you have a garden or a beautiful outdoor landscape, make sure to position your furniture in a way that allows for optimal views.
Large windows or glass doors can help bring nature indoors and create a seamless transition between your living space and the outdoors.
Incorporating Nature Into Other Areas of Your Home
Want to freshen up your kitchen, bathroom, nursery or wherever? Just use these same key elements of biophilic interior design anywhere you please!
Kitchen
Bathroom
Nursery
Dining Room
Where to Find Biophilic Design Inspiration
If you’re looking to incorporate biophilic design into your own space, you might be wondering where to find inspiration.
Luckily, there are plenty of resources available to help you on your journey!
Biophilic Interior Design Courses
If you’re looking to dive deeper into biophilic design and gain a comprehensive understanding of the principles behind it, enrolling in a course can be a fantastic option.
Here are a few reputable sources for biophilic design courses:
- Udemy: They offer “Intro to Biophilic Design” that helps you ‘Take your architectural and interior designs up to the next level.’
- Oliver Health Design: They offer biophilic design courses that are ‘Industry leading self-paced courses in the practical application of Biophilic Design and it’s principles.’
- Centre for Biophilic Design: Their courses and workshops cover various aspects of biophilic design, from theory to practical applications, helping you develop the skills needed to create biophilic spaces.
- Luminous Spaces: Offers a ‘Biophilic Design Certification Course.’ It is a 6-module online course taught. This one is more pricey, designed for professional designers, architects, etc.
So why wait? Take the first step towards a greener, more fulfilling future by embarking on this educational journey today!
Home Decor Stores
If you prefer a more hands-on approach to finding inspiration, visiting home decor stores can be a great way to immerse yourself in the world of biophilic design.
Many stores now offer eco-friendly and nature-inspired products that can help you bring the outdoors in.
Here are a few stores worth checking out:
- The Sill: The Sill is an online plant shop that specializes in helping people incorporate greenery into their living spaces. They offer a wide variety of indoor plants, pots, and planters, along with helpful resources on plant care and styling tips.
- Etsy: From botanical prints to natural fiber rugs, you can discover one-of-a-kind pieces that will add a touch of nature to your home.
- West Elm: West Elm is known for its modern and sustainable home furnishings. They have a dedicated section on their website for eco-friendly products, including furniture made from reclaimed wood, organic bedding, and natural fiber rugs.
Online Resources
The internet is a treasure trove of inspiration when it comes to biophilic interior design. Pintrist and Instagram are a great place to start.
Search for keywords like
- Biophilic design
- Nature-inspired interiors
- Green living spaces
Or follow hashtags like
- Biophilicdesign
- Natureinspiredinteriors
Potential Issues of Biophilic Design
In this section, we will explore some possible drawbacks of biophilic design and what you can do about them.
1. Maintenance and Upkeep
Let’s not kill ALL the plants.
Plants need regular care like watering, pruning, and pest control.
Proper upkeep of your biophilic design will ensure your plants stay their stunning selves for years to come!
Tip: Start small, add greenery as you get the hang of regular maintenance.
Discover tips for maintaining indoor plants.
2. Allergies and Sensitivities
Although biophilic design brings nature closer to us, it can also bring in allergens and sensitivities.
Choosing plants and materials carefully, along with good ventilation and filtration systems, can help reduce these concerns.
Find out more about common indoor allergens and how to minimize their impact.
3. Availability of Natural Light
Not all indoor spaces have access to ample natural light.
Buildings with limited windows or those located in shaded areas may struggle to achieve the desired level of natural light, making it challenging to fully implement biophilic design principles.
How to increase natural light in your home.
4. Risks of Pests and Insects
Bringing nature indoors can inadvertently introduce pests and insects into the home.
Proper pest control measures can be implemented to prevent infestations and ensure a comfortable working environment.
Here’s an article on non-toxic pest control.
How about a list of plants than can help deter pests!
While any design comes with its own issues, this should will hopefully help you sidestep any inconveniences you find along the way!
Conclusion
Biophilic interior design offers a multitude of benefits beyond aesthetics.
By incorporating elements of nature into your home, you can create a healthier, more productive, and visually appealing living space.
Really into this? How about an article on biophilic architecture or biophilic office design!
Take the opportunity to transform your home into a sanctuary that not only reflects your love for nature but also improves your overall quality of life!
What aspect of biophilic interior design are you dying to try?
Let me know in the comments below!
Until next time, stay cozy my friends.
