The notion of biophilic design originates from the concept of biophilia, which describes the inclination of humans to engage with other living organisms. As applied to design, it involves establishing a feeling of concordance between one’s dwelling and the natural environment and is presently among the most popular trends in interior design.
Biophilic Design Is a Rising Trend
A recent trend report highlighted the increasing popularity of biophilic design, with a notable surge in search interest for the term and industry experts frequently mentioning it as a buzzword. This trend is gaining traction on its own after the emergence of soothing space designs that promote health and well-being. Now, the focus on nature in biophilic design is becoming more prominent.
Live plants offer a simple method of incorporating biophilic design into a home. For those new to plant care, it’s advisable to start with low-maintenance plants for a desk or a set of potted herbs on a kitchen windowsill. Experienced indoor gardeners may take things a step further and creatively integrate greenery into the room’s design by expanding their plant collection. To fully enjoy the benefits of biophilic design, one could dedicate an entire wall, staircase, or corner of the home to various types of leafy plants.
Natural Surroundings Enhance Design
Individuals who reside in areas encompassed by natural surroundings have the opportunity to maximize their home’s architecture by embracing the outdoors. One way to achieve this is by installing large picture windows without grilles or sashes to frame scenic views. This technique allows nature to function as wall art. In addition, a skylight can be fitted in bathrooms, hallways, or kitchens to provide views of the sky.
Establishing a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living spaces is an excellent method for integrating nature into a home’s design. One option is to install sliding doors, which can be opened to merge the living room with an outdoor patio. Other possibilities include adding a balcony to the bedroom or a deck that connects to the kitchen, making nature a deliberate part of the design. At the very least, opening a window can provide fresh air and allow one to listen to the sounds of rain, wind, or birds.
Biophilic design can be implemented in more abstract ways, not solely by incorporating living plants. One can replicate nature’s textures, colors, and shapes by using materials such as wood, leather, and stone to bring the outdoors in. Using muted, organic tones in preferred color schemes can also be an effective solution. Adding subtle references to nature in home decor is a simple and often cost-effective method to create the peaceful ambiance associated with biophilic design.