Biophilic Design- bringing us closer to nature.
Biophilic Design is increasing in popularity. Through the rapid urbanization of cities, we’ve seen nature and our environment take a back step to make way for convenience and cost-effectiveness. In recent trends, the philosophy of Biophilia has taken over design and architecture giving us an excellent way to connect with nature once again.
What is Biophilia?
So what is Biophilia and biophilic design? Edward O. Wilson, the author of Biophilia, ‘suggests that humans possess an innate tendency to seek connections with nature and other forms of life.’ The biophilic design takes this concept and applies it to interior design and architecture. It creatively finds ways to connect people to natural surroundings by bringing aspects of nature into interior and exterior spaces, hoping to improve health and well-being.
Key Features of Biophilic Design
In biophilic design, most designers and experts can agree there are five key factors that play important roles in homes, offices, and recreational spaces.
1.Plants
Plants are beneficial to indoor spaces as they provide us with air purification. Air purifying plants such as evergreens and ferns are particularly good for indoors. When we relax and take a break the natural greenery plants provide can help reduce stress and are pleasant to the eye.
2.Natural Materials
In 2020/ 2021 the use of natural and organic materials has become increasingly popular. Natural materials are sustainable and environmentally friendly but they also contribute to the success of adding biophilia to our spaces. Materials such as wood and natural stones to natural fabrics such as rattan and wool all add a sensory element of nature.
3.Light
Light is one of the key roles of biophilic architecture. The incorporation of sunlight helps to regulate our circadian rhythm (the internal clock that helps our sleep cycle). Spaces with direct sunlight have shown to reduce stress and increase overall health.
If direct sunlight isn’t possible in your space fear not as the creatives have got us covered. Diffuse lighting helps scatter light helping to soften the light in darker spaces. Daylighting systems, such as tubular skylights, are clever ways to decrease the number of artificial lights.
4.Shapes and Patterns
Mimicking shapes and patterns that we see in nature can be incorporated in architecture but is also an easy way to add to interior design. By mimicking biomorphic patterns in art and textiles we can create a sense of ecology and nature in our space. Through organic natural shapes of furniture, our environment becomes closer to the natural state of nature.
5.Colors
The last key feature is the choice of colors. Natural earthy tones are always preferable. Biophilic color schemes focus on never adding just one color. Just like in natural environments we always see an array of colors or at least a variety of hues and tones. Paint colors with reddish tones can optimism creativity while colors with blue tones are more calming. We can also incorporate natural colors to carpets, varnishes, and other finishes.
Photo credit:diy-gardening-ideas-modern.sakinbeauty.com
The research and success of findings have shown how beneficial adding biophilic elements and design is to our personal spaces and work environments. The structure and architecture of these spaces play an important part in our everyday lives. Biophilic interior design that help us feel a part of our tranquil natural environments.
The article was written by Christine Fay Smith
“Christine is a freelance lifestyle writer who focuses on interior and hospitality design. Graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts, Christine has embraced her knowledge of the visual world with her passion for culture and the exploration of visual experiences.”
