So, what is biophilia? Well, if it’s defined as the human tendency to seek connections with nature, biophilic design invokes elements of the great outdoors (like light and air) to satisfy this need. Often referenced within the context of office buildings and house blueprints, principles of biophilic interior design can be applied toward any living space—including your home.
Benefits such as clean air, improved mental health and increased productivity are attainable via the following interior design ideas!
1. On Neutral Ground
Like a painter must apply a coat of primer upon their canvas before every masterpiece, you too should take special consideration of your unfurnished backdrop. A soft, neutral color scheme is best for a couple of reasons.
A neutral background, by virtue of its simplicity, drives attention toward the foreground, i.e., the biophilic components you put on display.
In addition, light-colored walls can make a room appear more open and less constrictive, especially if the room catches plenty of natural light during the day. Since biophilic interior design thrives on the simulatory experience of being outside, a neutral backdrop composed of beige or off-white furniture and some thinly dispersed wall art will evoke a breath of fresh air.
Speaking of scanty wall décor, make sure that your pieces represent a juried collection of natural imagery—think pressed fern fronds, highland landscapes and photographs of wild animals that look like they were captured for National Geographic. And remember: less is more. In an environment that is meant to replicate the tranquility experienced in nature, a less cluttered appearance is optimal.
2. Plant the Seeds of Open Airways
One of the pillars upon which the biophilic framework stands is called “direct experience” of nature. It simply refers to tangible contact with natural elements to mimic the multisensory experience of being outside—enter: plants!
There are really only two rules to factor when curating your indoor garden.
One: Don’t skimp on authenticity—faux foliage, while pretty, is not proven to purify the air nor diminish stress compared to their biotic counterparts.
And two: Go big! Green walls and a fleet of potted plants are the epitomai of biophilic design. The more eclectic the assortment, the better.
Fixtures in many millennial homes, succulent terrariums are low maintenance and are guaranteed to beautify any room or surface. When it comes to smaller house plants, we think macramé plant hangers and floating shelves make for a lovely presentation. For larger indoor plants (like sprawling ivies, miniature palms and fiddle-leaf figs), we recommend woven planter baskets and clay pots over colorful ceramics to uphold the illusion of living in a forest.
3. Let There Be Natural Light
Just like plants require sunlight to grow, humans experience a similar need for thermal comfort (and a living room engulfed in a golden glow right before sunset is a pretty sight to behold).
To maximize the natural light in your home, opt for semi-transparent or sheer drapery in light colors, and if privacy is a concern, you can also install a blackout roller shade.
If your current home doesn’t afford you the luxury of large windows, fear not. You can install dimmer switches on all of your electric light sources, including lamps. Diffused light mimics the natural fluctuations of daylight, and this balance between high and low amounts of blue light is essential for a stable sleep schedule and elevated mood.
Have you been looking for the perfect excuse to invest in a rustic fireplace mantel? Biophilic design is it.
4. Do Go Chasing Waterfalls
Often associated with peace and cleansing, water constitutes another natural element that can be invoked via biophilic design. Per feng shui principles, water-referencing décor summons wealth and prosperity—and can inhabit your space via blue throw pillows and framed photographs of lakes and streams.
In terms of the real thing, indoor water fountains (tabletop and wall-hanging versions) and home aquariums have an added benefit of giving your living space a luxurious feel. Picture this: you, propped up on your sofa with a good book—and an absolutely still living room underscored by the steadfast sound of trickling water. Ahhh.
5. Come Out of the Woodwork
For this final tip, we leave you with one word: biomorphic. Appealing to naturally occurring patterns or shapes reminiscent of nature, biomorphic furniture and décor exist in a variety of ways.
From rattan-back dining chairs, to reclaimed wood paneling, to geode table surfaces, to a twig chandelier, the possibilities are endless.
Texturizing your home interiors with a variety of natural materials (also including bamboo and stone) forges a tactile connection with nature, which is said to positively impact mood and productivity. Woodsy accents, in particular, add a warmhearted touch and usher an air of authenticity into any room.
We hope these interior design ideas inspire you to cultivate a natural aesthetic in your home. If you’re looking to spruce up your furniture collection, check out our online catalog to scour our wide selection today! And give us a call—we’re always happy to help.