BIOPHILIC DESIGN
Biophilic Design is quickly becoming a new trend. Haven’t heard of it yet? You soon will! Biophilic Design simply means – Connection to Nature. This is effectively the inclusion of certain materials, objects and design methods into the interior space to allude to nature in your surroundings, with or without the physical element.
​
We spend a lot of our time indoors, 90% of our lives in average!!! Even more so in the last couple of years due to the pandemic and local restrictions forcing us inside for days/weeks at a time. Biologically we have an innate desire for a connection to nature and this lack of outdoor exposure has left a profound hole in our lives, affecting our overall wellness. Biophilic Design can help us fill that void within the interior space, enhancing us both mentally and physically.
A biophilic inspired interior is well known to calm the mind, but also has many other coveted health benefits such as heightened cognitive ability, improved memory and concentration and enhanced overall mood along with physical health benefits such as increased respiratory functions, lower pulse rates, healthier gut and fewer headaches. Who wouldn’t want to achieve these in the living space? And the good news is its entirely achievable!
Inviting nature into the interior space can be done in many ways. Indoor plants for example, are an obvious choice for use within a biophilic design and not only aesthetically pleasing, they also cleanse the interior air with their ability remove harmful toxins and create more oxygen. Choose varieties such as Rubber Plants, Peace Lilies and Bamboo Palms for the best results.
Creating a biophilic interior that will improve health and wellbeing involves the addition of certain essential inclusions into the interior space. Even just a few of these key elements will help to improve the overall wellness of the occupant, some overlap making them easy inclusions.
These include basic aspects such the following:
​
A VISUAL CONNECTION TO NATURE
Incorporate a visual connection to nature with the view of nature/plants, either external or internally. Try organising furniture (such as desks, beds) to face the window or adding pot plants in purposely placed positions to bring nature into direct view.
The inclusion of the colours of nature such as greens, blues and browns is also a great easy way to achieve a visual connection to nature. These hues can be added in various shades and tones to create a depth of colour to suggest the changing shades of seasons.
​
A NON-VISUAL CONNECTION TO NATURE
A non-visual connection to nature involves allowing for the sounds of nature to be heard (such as chirping birds, wind rustling leaves on trees, running water) ,along with scent of nature. These can be either authentic or artificial, the subsequent result still refers to nature. Simply leaving a window open invites the sounds (and smells – think freshly cut grass) whilst fresh flowers and strong smelling citrus fruits or a diffuser with essential oils with strong floral scents such as lavender or geranium, placed in common areas will omit the scent continuously.
VARIABLE AIRFLOW
Ensure fresh air wherever possible, either through the opening of windows/doors or the installation of a mechanical ventilation system to move the air at a steady pace. This is a simple and effective way to encourage cleaner interior air, leading to a healthier mind.
​
NATURAL AND DIFFUSED LIGHT
Management of light can be used to mimic natures rhythms and create the right mood/ambience. Allowing for ample natural light in the interior space during daylight hours and the use of diffused light in the afternoon/evenings, when time for relaxation is desired. Try leaving the curtains slightly open when going to bed, allowing natural light to permeate the bedroom during the natural wake time helps regulate circadian rhythm, resulting in a enhance and energised mood throughout the day.
Diffused light can be achieved through a sheer curtain or gentle, soft white light bulb diffused through a fabric or frosted lampshade, positioned in the space strategically to bring the desired ambience of the room for the time of day.
PRESENCE OF WATER
The sound or view of water is extremely beneficial in reducing blood pressure and pulse rate. The addition of water features directly outside an interior space can help achieve this.
PLANT & ANIMAL MOTIFS
Nature can be easily added to a space with finishes and objects. Try adding plants and animals in the form of artwork, either as photorealism or abstract or plant/flower motifs tiles in wet rooms. Wallpaper can be used with impressive effect – bringing the wall to life. Along with the addition of figurines, sculptures are another great way to bring an injection of nature into the interior.
​
MATERIAL CONNECTION TO NATURE
Think wood or natural stone flooring, along with untreated wood or natural marble wherever possible. To bring in a softer texture, include furnishings made from wool, cotton or cashmere. The nature of the material and the contrast of hard materials and soft fibres work together to bring feelings of comfort and ease.
OTHER ELEMENTS TO CONSIDER
There are other factors that can be included, although these can be slightly more difficult to achieve. Such as the creation of refuge spaces, creating nooks and quiet areas for individuals to unwind in. The “allure of mystery” is another element that can be considered. This effect can be achieved through the inclusion of partitions and semi-transparent windows fittings.