Biophilic Design 101: Bringing Nature Indoors for Wellness
Have you ever noticed how a stroll in the park can help to relieve stress or that a glance at the ocean brings you a feeling of calmness? It's more than just your imagination. As humans, we have a natural connection with nature. This powerful connection is translated into our interior spaces by biophilic design, which fosters a sense of well-being for our body and soul.
Imagine coming home to a peaceful, relaxing environment after a busy day. Imagine stepping into your home after a long day and being greeted with a gentle hum from a water feature. You're also greeted with a collection of vibrant houseplants and sunlight that dapples through strategically placed windows. Biophilic design is about creating a space that feels refreshing and connected to nature.
Biophilic design, however, is not just about sticking some ferns into a corner. It's more than just a fancy term for sticking a few ferns in the corner. How to use this powerful tool in your space
Harnessing Light's Power:
Biophilic design is based on natural light. Exposure to sunlight boosts mood and cognitive function, according to studies. Open those curtains wide. Use large windows, light tubes, or skylights to fill your room with the warm glow from the sun. When the sun goes down, choose warm tones that will mimic the natural ebbs and flows of daylight.
A Touch of Green Magic :
Plants can be used as decorative items, but they also act as air purifiers and stress relievers. Fill your home with greenery. You can use succulents to line windowsills or lush ferns on shelves. A money tree in a corner will also be calming. They will not only add life to your home but also make it more peaceful and tranquil.
Nature's Material Palette :
Consider alternatives to the white walls. The biophilic design encourages natural materials such as wood, bamboo, stone and woven textures. Stone offers stability and a connection to earth, while wood brings warmth and grounding. The woven textures of jute or wicker rugs add an organic touch.
A Symphony of the Senses :
Designing with a biophilic approach is not just about the visuals; it's also a multi-sensory affair. Include calming sounds from nature, such as a water fountain or aquarium. You can also play soft nature sounds in the background. The textures of natural materials, such as the coolness of stone or the rough bark on a driftwood centrepiece, can add a new layer of connection.
A Glimpse at the Outdoors :
You can create an outdoor connection even if your backyard is small. Ideal are large windows with a view of greenery or trees. If this is not possible, you can use nature-inspired art, organic patterns in wallpaper or curtains or strategically placed mirrors that reflect the outside and create an airy feeling.
It's not about creating an indoor nature scene that is perfectly manicured. It is about capturing the essence and beauty of nature - the calmness, the connection, and the simplicity of organic elements. It's all about creating a space where you feel like a refuge, a place to recharge your spirit and reconnect with nature that feeds you.
Take a good look at your surroundings. What natural elements can you introduce? What can you do to transform your environment so that it better reflects the outside world? Biophilic design should be viewed as a journey and not an end. Start small and experiment with different elements to see how nature can transform your indoor sanctuary into a space which truly reflects you.