Biophilic design is based on the premise that people are drawn toward the natural world. Applying this design aesthetic can incorporate elements of the natural world into the home. The aesthetic includes elements that foster direct and indirect contact with the natural world. Your home design concept can feature plants and other natural design details. You can also offer appealing views of the outdoors. Additionally, by replicating the essence of natural spaces, you can create immersive, nature-like experiences.
There can be health benefits to incorporating biophilic design into your home spaces. This design style can lead to improvements in both physical and mental health. For example, you can improve your air quality by incorporating plants into your decor. Plants can filter out harmful pollution. This can help your physical health.
Natural light can be helpful to physical health by fostering regulated circadian rhythms. This can promote better sleep. Biophilic design aspects can also benefit mental health. These design elements can facilitate cognitive function and enhance mood. You can create a beautiful and relaxing environment in your home. The bathroom and the kitchen are two areas where this design philosophy can be applied.
Incorporating Biophilic Design Philosophy
According to Helm London, “our connection to nature is becoming increasingly limited” in today’s world. Biophilic design can help mitigate the effects of this trend. The philosophical foundation of this design approach is the concept of “biophilia.” E. O. Wilson, an American biologist, originated this concept. Helm London states that biophilia means “love of life or living systems.” A key goal of biophilic design is to address a fundamental human need. This need is the longing to interact with the natural world.
This home design framework is centered around three general principles. One principle is direct contact with aspects of the world’s natural setting. Nature is brought into the home tangibly. Helm London explains: “This involves incorporating natural elements like water, plants, and natural light.”
The second principle is providing natural experiences that are indirect. These experiences can include views of outdoor natural scenes. They can also include design features that draw inspiration from the natural world. The third principle is providing an experience that centers you in an immersive location. Helm London explains that “a sense of refuge and prospect” can emerge through imitating natural settings.
Biophilic Design to Encourage Good Health
Including nature in your indoor spaces can create areas that are conducive to both physical and mental health. Sunnyfield Cabinetry states: “Biophilic design can improve indoor air quality by incorporating plants.” Plants can act as natural filters, helping to create healthier indoor air.
You can also improve your physical health by ensuring the presence of natural light. Natural light can help promote regularity in the circadian rhythm. Regular circadian rhythms are beneficial to health and can enhance sleep quality. Natural light can also contribute to improved mental health. Including plants and water in your interior design can help enhance your mood. The presence of details of the natural world can also improve cognitive function.
Designing Spaces with Biophilic Ideas in Mind
You can try incorporating biophilic elements into the bathroom and the kitchen. For instance, Sunnyfield Cabinetry states that you can “create a spa-like atmosphere” in the bathroom. You can do this by incorporating natural materials such as wood. Kitchens with biophilic details, according to Sunnyfield Cabinetry, can become “vibrant, health-promoting spaces.” Kitchens with natural light and thoughtfully-chosen plants can be attractive and inviting.
Biophilic Design for a Relaxing Home Environment
This design aesthetic can make your home a serene and relaxing space. Sunnyfield Cabinetry advocates for “spaces that evoke the calming and rejuvenating effects of nature.” The benefits of spending time in nature can enrich your home environment. According to Sunnyfield Cabinetry, you can have “a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle.” The aesthetic can enhance the beauty of your home surroundings. It can also help bring about a healthier, happier you.
