Biophilic design: What is it and why is it trending?

Recent years have seen the term biophilic design gain prominence and popularity in the world of interior design.

The definition of this design term is “an innate and genetically determined affinity of human beings with the natural world.”

This increasingly fashionable design concept refers to the practice of using an interior space to increase occupant connectivity to the natural environment through the use of direct and indirect nature.

By connecting with nature, it is said that biophilic design can reduce stress, boost creativity and clarity of thought, and improve overall health and wellbeing. Hence, this type of nature-inspired design is popular in spaces like offices.

However, it is also become progressively more fashionable in homes.

Elements of biophilic design

The principal elements of biophilic design is those which mimic nature. Typical design features include potamic plants, organic shapes, flowing water features, natural materials, fragrant plants, moss walls, and living roofs, anything that stimulates our senses by connecting us with nature.

Exposure to daylight

Another key trait of biophilic design is daylight. The natural world relies on daylight to survive, and homes determined to bring nature indoors should mimic the reliance on daylight.

Whether it’s introducing skylights in a kitchen, arranging seating so it is next to a window, or putting workspaces and reading nooks near windows, ensure your home in exposed to as maximum daylight as possible for a truly biophilic design.

Plenty of plants

Of course, one of the easiest and most effective ways to bring nature indoors is to douse your home with indoors plants.

Plants don’t have to be real to craft a natural look and can be in the guise of artificial planting or even paintings and other furnishings that mimic nature.

Bring the imaginary of nature into your living space with furniture, screens, paintings and other furnishings that resonate the natural world.

There’s nothing quite like wood to bring the outdoors indoors. Look for wooden furniture and fittings which showcase grains and knots to the maximum, for an interior laden with nature at its most authentic and inspiring.