Words Jackie Tyrell
The places where we work and live can have a huge impact on our health and happiness. Following the concept of biophilic design, we can bring a little of nature’s magic back into our everyday lives. Here are some tips and suggestions for easy and accessible ways to start introducing elements of biophilic design into your home or office:
1. Fresh Air
Open up windows widely to let the fresh air and the sound of nature into your home and your mind. Listen to the sound of birds, rain or wind. Breathing in fresh air improves both the immune system function and the mood. It will also flush out stale air and balance moisture levels.
2. Maximise Natural Light
Try to make the most of available natural light by keeping windows clear and clean. Reposition furniture, blinds, curtains or anything that’s blocking the full potential of sunlight.
3. Incorporate Plants
One of the best tips for incorporating biophilic design elements in the home or office is to use plants. The natural and random patterns created by plants add texture and visual interest. Add greenery in pots or trailing plants hanging from the ceiling. Introduce plants that captivate the sense of smell, such as rosemary and lavender. Plants are also natural air purifiers and mood boosters.
4. Use Natural Materials
Use natural materials like bamboo, cork, sustainable timber, stone and rattan. Organic materials not only add texture and provide a connection to nature, they also offer positive effects such as good moisture management, thermoregulation, odour control and antimicrobial properties.
5. Embrace Shapes of Nature
Play with organic shapes such as soft curves, abstract forms that mimic the shapes found in natural objects. Organic shapes can create a calming, flowing atmosphere and help soften sharp lines in other parts of the room.
6. Colours of Nature
From lush forests to bright flowers and fiery sunsets, nature is brimming with colour inspiration. Channel the calm and beauty of the outdoors with palettes that can include fresh greens, watery blues and warm earth tones.
7. Play With Fire
Fire provides a direct experience of nature offering colour, warmth and movement. The flames of an open fire are cosy and inviting. The flickering of a candle is a simple but impactful way to add a spark of light and will make any space glow.
8. Go with the Flow
Many of us feel strong connections to water, and water sounds create a soothing atmosphere. Modern water features can be adapted to suit virtually every type of space, regardless of size or shape. Indoor options include rain curtains, waterfalls, water walls and fountains. Aquariums are also an excellent choice as watching fish can help reduce stress and anxiety. If short on space, a table-top fountain is a wonderful way to tap into the interior water features trend.
9. Vary Heights and Scale
Perfectly straight lines and symmetry rarely exist in nature and the same goes for height. Trees, flowers and plants in different shapes and sizes live side-by-side. Having items of similar size, shape, and scale can feel contrived and man-made whereas varying the height and scale of decor mimics the randomness of nature and is more visually interesting.
10. Create a Cosy Nook
Create a cosy space to read, meditate, enjoy some ‘me time’ or to simply relax and de-stress. Having a designated place for refuge is known to enhance our wellbeing and give us a sense of safety.
- ‘Ten practical tips for implementing biophilic design’ is published in Anthology Volume 16. Read more features from this volume or buy it now.
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