Biophilic Design - Bring the outdoors in
Our designers' top tips
A big home design movement that has been steadily growing for years is Biophilic design, which began in modern architecture. This design ethos is about purposefully incorporating nature into our interior spaces, so we can connect to the outdoors. We asked our designers how they would incorporate this design language into their clients' spaces.
ORIGINS
Originating in architectural design practices, Bioliphic design connects people and nature within our built environments and communities. The ethos of connecting people to natural elements is linked with the health and well-being of the occupants and users of spaces, as well as impacting spaces' economic and environmental surroundings.
ELEMENTS OF BIOPHILIC DESIGN
Understanding how to incorporate this design language into your space starts with knowing the elements and imagery that makeup Bioliphic Design. These elements can range from physical representations to pieces that evoke the feeling of the elements.
Natural light in space has been found to drastically improve the overall mood and wellness of the people that use it. Aside from obvious health benefits, the movement of natural light throughout the day in spaces has also been found to improve wayfinding, as well as improving body clock regulation and easing of anxieties.
LIGHT
Letting in natural light to your space will not only improve your wellbeing, but will also make your space feel larger and more pleasant to live in. Where you can, make the best use of daylight possible. In darker spaces, we would recommend light, airy window dressings and minimal accessories on windowsills.
You can also be strategic with reflective surfaces. Well-placed, large mirrors will do wonders for brightening a space up. You can consider other reflective objects such as glassware and crystal to refract more light around your room.
If natural daylight is simply not available in your space, consider natural daylight bulbs where possible. Artificial lighting can easily feel overly harsh in this scenario, so consider diffused lighting in your setup. We would recommend mood lighting through smaller lamps, to avoid eye strain and glare from overhead lighting.
AIR
This might sound obvious, but simply keeping your room well-ventilated with fresh air can have a huge effect on mood and well-being. When planning out your space design, try and avoid covering ventilation areas with furniture. It is also important to remember ventilation flow when designing your room, to maximise the fresh air coming into an area and stale air leaving.
WATER
Though it may not seem obvious, introducing elements of water into your interior design scheme is pretty straightforward. The joy of Biophilic design is that it can be interpreted in many ways, meaning that with some elements, we can create an 'indirect experience' rather than the real thing.
So, instead of installing a full-blown water feature in your bedroom, consider adding elements to your design that denote the feeling or inspiration of water. Look for artwork that shows water sources, or include accessories inspired by water movement.
Some of these elements could be genuinely practical. For example, having a carafe full of fresh water around your home not only looks elegant, but promotes you to keep hydrated throughout the day.
PLANTS
Perhaps the easiest way to incorporate this style into your space is through plants. Adding a touch of foliage throughout your home is a quick and easy way of adding a natural touch to any space. From fresh flowers in a stylish vase to powerful greenery to liven up corners, you can give your space an instant feeling of life through foliage.
However, we would exercise a word of caution to those not so green-fingered. We recommend researching what plants work best in your space - depending on your light conditions and plant placement. We would also recommend researching plant maintenance and being honest with yourself about what you can commit to.
If you are looking for ultra-low-maintenance alternatives, consider artificial or dried plants and flowers. Our stores stock a large range of silk flowers for your home - available exclusively in BoConcept stores.
COLOUR
As mentioned previously, Biophilic design can also be conveyed through indirect experiences of nature. This can be conveyed even through colour. Interior design trends have been moving toward more natural colours found in nature for a number of years, with muted greens, blues and browns coming to the forefront. You can add these colours in little by little through accessories, and build up to more colour when you feel comfortable.
MATERIALS
Material choice can be a great way to bring more natural elements into your space. Starting with accessories, you can choose ornaments and vases made from stone, pottery and wood. For soft furnishings, choose fabrics such as linen and organic cotton for a feeling of the rustic natural.
For furniture, choosing a stone for work surfaces is never a bad idea. Solid and hardwearing, ceramics and stones will give that natural element to your home, all the while being endlessly practical.
PERSONAL ADVICE YOU CAN TRUST
SPEAK TO US ABOUT YOUR SPACE
The best advice we can give you is on a one-to-one basis. Our designers can help your specific dining dilemmas with tailored advice that addresses your personal needs, wants and tastes. Available in-store, online or in your own home; explore our free interior design service today.
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