Biophilic interior design: A guide to mastering this nature-loving trend
Discover all there is to know about the roots of biophilic design and how to achieve this nature-inspired philosophy.
Biophilic design’s popularity in the interior and architecture world can’t be denied. Derived from the term biophilia, it has grown to a design philosophy that’s praised for its natural qualities and practicality.
It may seem that biophilic design is all about decorating your home with plants, but it’s so much more than just aesthetics. Designing your home to be integrated with nature has proven mental and physical health benefits that go beyond looking stylish.
From discovering the roots and principles of biophilic interior design to how to achieve this look in your home, discover all there is to know about biophilic design. Once you’re done reading, browse our wooden dining sets to get started.
Section 1: What is biophilia in interior design?
The term biophilia is defined as “an innate and genetically determined affinity of human beings with the natural world”, which was coined by biologist E. O. Wilson in his book Biophilia, The Diversity of Life, Naturalist. Biophilic spaces feature many aspects of the natural world. This includes the use of natural materials like wood and rattan, lots of natural lighting, water and vegetation.
Even though plants are an easy way to introduce biophilic design to your home, it’s not just about filling a room with greenery. It’s about making your home feel connected to nature, whether it’s through natural materials, creating that light and airy feeling or introducing more natural curves into the space.
Section 2: The benefits of biophilic design
Research has shown that people who are connected to nature generally feel happier and more grounded. Our surroundings play a big role in improving our mental health and overall well-being.
Introducing biophilic design to our homes will make our spaces feel more serene yet lively. Not everyone can go out for a hike every day, but coming home to a space that uplifts your spirits and energises your body is what we need to live and function healthily.
Section 3: What are the key elements of biophilic design?
Stephen Kellert, Professor of Social Ecology at the Yale School of Forestry and Design, helped develop the six principles of biophilic design:
- Environmental features: Incorporating aspects into the architecture or interior, such as natural materials, natural lighting and plants
- Natural shapes and forms: Recreating patterns and shapes found in nature like curves, arches and plant motifs
- Light and space: Good natural lighting will help boost overall wellbeing and mental health
- Natural patterns and processes: Nature is about embracing imperfection. Uneven lines, weathered wood and asymmetrical patterns are all key features to biophilic design
- Place-based relationships: Incorporating natural elements native to your location. For example, using locally-sourced materials or introducing artwork native to the region
- Human-nature relationships: Designing a safe space for people that feels intimate and welcomes interaction
Section 4: How to achieve the biophilic look in your own home
1. Design a living wall
Designing a living wall is a creative and affordable way to introduce biophilic design into your home. The best way to start is to choose the right location to hang your plants and make sure it accommodates the number you want to display. Take into account how much sunlight the area receives, depending on the type of plants you choose. Go for self-watering pots if you have high walls, and for easy maintenance.
2. Let natural light in
Natural lighting is a key element in incorporating biophilic interiors into your home. Emphasise your windows by leaving them bare or using sheer curtains to let the light in. Adding mirrors to key areas is another way to tie all the natural elements together - lighting and emphasise the greenery both indoors and outdoors.
3. Decorate with natural wood
Wood is one of the easiest materials to feature. It can be introduced into any part of the home in big or small ways. This can be through a wooden dining set, wooden flooring or even a simple side table in the living room.
Choosing the right type of wood also helps set the mood of your space. Oak is great for a light, modern farmhouse vibe, while darker woods like walnut inject a moody feel. Complement wood with other natural textures like rattan, jute and cotton for a relaxed, natural look.
4. Choose fuss-free indoor plants
We get it, if you’re new to plant parenting, it can feel daunting. The key is to research which plants are best suited to your lifestyle and environment. If you’re regularly away, choosing fuss-free plants like the snake plant or ficus is a great way to start.
Once you feel more confident with plant care, there’s no harm in building your collection. If you’re comfortable with monsteras, adding a couple more will liven up your space. You can also choose plants based on your decor style. Palms are great for tropical decor, while ferns and peace lilies are a good pick for classic decor.
5. Go for nature-inspired prints
Aside from natural textures and indoor greenery, go all out with nature-inspired prints. This can be through wallpaper or styling a gallery wall with nature-inspired artwork. Pick a colour theme or motif that you feel fits in with your interior. For example, if you like a specific plant, why not choose it as the wallpaper? If it’s a gallery wall, you can choose a theme for the gallery wall, like a wall of flowers or plants.
6. Install built-in planters
Aside from the natural aspect, another great thing about biophilic interiors is its functional aspect. Installing built-in planters creates more space for you to add more plants. You have the option of adding planters to shelving or placing them near the window.
FAQs
What are the problems with biophilic design?
Depending on where you live or how extensive biophilic design features are in your interiors, it can be costly or hard to maintain. Starting small is one way to go about it to see how much work and maintenance are needed.
What are the five senses of biophilic design?
The five senses of biophilic design are: sight (visual connection), sound (auditory), smell (olfactory), touch (tactile) and taste (gustatory). Common examples include introducing a focal point (sight), choosing relaxing natural textures (touch) and adding soothing scents or planting vegetables or fruit (taste).
What are the three pillars of biophilic design?
Nature in space: introducing natural elements into your space, like indoor plants or a water feature
Natural analogues: introducing features that mimic nature, such as organic shapes
Nature of the space: planning and designing a space that connects us to nature
We hope you enjoyed reading our guide on biophilic interior design. Looking for more décor ideas? Check out our green living room ideas guide.
