It’s extraordinary that, on average, we spend 90% of our time indoors even though we feel the pull to be outdoors. When getting outside is challenging, biophilic design can help bridge the gap. Biophilic design focuses on incorporating natural elements and materials, such as wood, stone, and plants, into the design of a space to create a connection with nature. The result is a calm, inviting living environment. It also has the potential to positively impact your overall well-being and productivity.
Do you want to reap the benefits of biophilic design in your home? Here are a few tips on how to achieve this:
Make Use of Natural Light
Natural light is full of Vitamin D, which has an exponential amount of health benefits. To soak this in — and create a warm, welcoming space — increase the amount of sunlight filtering through your windows. Sheers and lightweight curtains allow more sunlight to stream in, creating a brighter, more open feel. If the space allows, you might also arrange statement furniture and decor in places where natural light falls. Carefully stage seating against a wall that is always drenched in sunlight, or hang a large, decorative mirror to reflect even more light around the room. These decor strategies will automatically increase your exposure to the sun, granting access to all its positive impacts.
Focus on Materials and Textures
When selecting design elements, opt for natural materials. You can do this in various ways. Think using raw wood or stone to create a custom accent wall or selecting larger pieces of furniture like tables, chairs, and sofas made from sustainable materials. While these are more obvious choices, you can also incorporate smaller decorative touches like wall hangings, area rugs, and accent furniture made from durable jute, rattan, or bamboo. No matter what you choose, having natural materials and textures in your home design will help to create a more grounded, holistic look and feel.
Be Intentional When Selecting Wall Art
Whether you have an entire gallery wall of pictures or a few larger wall hangings, be mindful of the art you are displaying in your home. By selecting still moments in nature, you can quite literally bring your favorite parts of the outdoors inside. From desert cacti and wildflowers to an awe-inspiring sunrise, the art you choose to display can capture nature and, in turn, recreate the feelings you get when immersed in it.
Include More Greenery
While having plants in your home helps purify the air, different shades of green will also help purify the mind and restore energy. Additionally, more greenery adds movement, organic shapes, and new textures to your space. Whether your style gravitates towards practical options like kitchen herbs and cleansing plants or decorative options like hanging or standing plants in colorful pots, there are countless ways to bring greenery into your home. Some of our favorite greens that incorporate color and movement into any living space are striped spider plants, mottled pothos, and curvy ferns.
Aside from creating an aesthetically pleasing look in your home, biophilic design boasts benefits for the mind and your overall well-being. Need help incorporating this design style in your home?
Contact us today to schedule your in-home design consultation.
