5 Refreshing Examples of How to Incorporate Biophilic Design into Your Space
In 2021, biophilic design trends are at the top of everyone’s list, and rightfully so. Who wouldn’t want to create an indoor space where you can work, live, and thrive, both mentally and physically, by focusing on a few design details that are known to boost your mood and productivity? The concept of bringing nature into and around our homes or office space is gaining popularity and comes with an added bonus to our overall health as well.
Five refreshing examples of how to incorporate the outdoors inside are:
- Patios and Balconies Patios and balconies are a great place to start. They let the outdoors flow indoors almost effortlessly. The location of your patio can make all the difference when it comes to this design trend. Consider having a patio directly off your kitchen. A back-porch style patio can be multi-purposed for things like working from home or entertaining. An all-weather sunroom or balcony off of your master bedroom is an extension of your personal oasis. Imagine having direct access to a space that helps you feel calmer, improves your mood, exudes tranquility, and has an increased amount of purified air. Sounds amazing, right?
The use of plants and potted trees are multifunctional- they add color, provide shade and cover as well as act as air purifiers. In addition to greenery, water features add an element of serenity that can be felt as well as seen. A waterfall feature can also be a great way to create an outdoor view, and it is sure to transport us straight to a fluvial cascade in our mind.
- Outdoor Kitchens Outdoor kitchens aren’t just for entertaining guests. When it comes to kitchens, our goal is to create a space that is equal amounts functional and comfortable. When incorporating this biophilic design trend, moving the kitchen outdoors adds an organic feel making the space more inviting to entertain in and live well in on a day-to-day basis. The physical connection to nature in an outdoor kitchen can easily be achieved by the use of natural materials such as stone, wood, marble, as well as living and preserved plants.
Add to that living walls or moss murals filled with luscious greenery and unique design trends such as table-top gardens. You now have a space that not only functions as the most used area of the home but also serves as a space to generate increased feelings of engagement and a sentiment of pride as you prioritize the use of earth-friendly materials to do your part in helping the planet.
- Indoor Kitchen Gardens Back inside, indoor kitchen gardens add flair and flavor to the heart of the home. Creating an indoor garden in a relevant space in the home is a design idea that radiates a desire for personal wellness and accomplishes biophilic designs’ most basic principle- “sharing space with plants and nature.” A high functioning and eye-catching kitchen-garden would be made with renewable materials and offers a variety of homegrown fresh herbs and microgreens. Blurring the lines of your favorite outdoor features with the convenience of an indoor space is the goal.
Creatively express your love for the outdoors while using a symbolic approach to connect to nature, such as a neutral color pallet, the use of natural materials, artwork, textiles, lighting, and even breathtaking outdoor views.
- Living Décor Get inspired by living décor. Scientific research proves that being surrounded by greenery and living things such as plants and vegetation make you feel better. How’s that for inspiration? Using plants as your main décor can certainly be accomplished, but there are a number of design elements that will help your plants and mind prosper. Large and plentiful windows and carefully chosen window treatments make way for ample sunlight to feed your green décor. Greenery walls add a sense of freshness and beauty to a space.
This design element will also improve the air quality and reduce ambient noise and temperature. All of these benefits make your space more comfortable. You may also consider creating a full sensory experience in your home by incorporating fresh air, blooming plants, terrariums, and fragrant foliage.
- Natural Light Connect with nature by using an abundance of natural light. The generous use of natural light is important in just about any interior design plan. However, in biophilic design, natural light is used in a way to promote an instinctual regulation of our biological clocks. Sunlight drives us to naturally awake in the morning and rest well at night.
It has the ability to improve our concentration and balance our mood. Windows, skylights, and glass doors are prime elements in obtaining copious amounts of natural light, but you want to be careful the light is comforting, not glaring. This is where the expertise of an interior designer can add an intriguing vibe that contributes to a sense of mystique. By selecting the proper window treatments, light and shadows become a unique form of artwork.
Unlike other design trends, biophilic design is scientific and evidence-based. The word biophilic comes from the word biophilia which literally translates to “love of nature.” It is much more than just an esthetically pleasing design trend. The use of natural materials, an abundance of natural light, fresh living décor, and spectacular outdoor views have been found to improve cognitive awareness, physical health, and overall well-being.
The trend of embracing our love of nature by integrating a biophilic design style into our homes and offices is a style that is here to stay. It is so magical you may wonder why you didn’t transition to it sooner.
If you feel inspired and want to learn more about how to design your space using biophilic principles, CRT Studio can help. See why our interior design team is made up of award-winning designers who are committed to helping you reach your goals and exceed your expectations. Reach out today by calling or emailing Rob Turner at rob@crtstudio.com.
Sources:
https://www.habitarmonia.com/the-guide-to-biophilic-design-outdoor-views
https://www.dwell.com/article/biophilic-home-design-f58257d5
https://www.habitusliving.com/design-hunters/biophilic-design-kitchen
https://www.digsdigs.com/biophilic-home-decor-ideas/
https://dfordesign.style/blog/biophilic-moodboards-leveraging-the-power-of-light-in-interiors
https://www.thespruce.com/outdoor-kitchen-plans-4690716