We are spending more and more time indoors. This is not without an impact on our well-being. The answer to the longing for nature is the biophilic design trend.
Large glazing will help ensure an adequate amount of natural light
photo by Alberto Castillo © UNSPLASH
What is biophilic design?
Biophilic desing is a way of designing interiors to improve our quality of life. It focuses on humans, their well-being and their unique relationship with nature. It was popularized in the 1980s by biologist and one of the founders of modern sociobiology, Edward O. Wilson. He defined it as "the inner strength of a person's focus on life and life's processes." Wilson pointed to the biological bond linking humans to the natural environment. Necessary for us to live in harmony with each other. Wilson's research proved that we subconsciously seek stability in contact with nature. This is because we come from nature. Today, due to severely limited time spent outdoors and increasing urbanization, this need is even greater.
A vertical garden will be ideal in larger rooms
photo by Elifin Realty © UNSPLASH
How to arrange a biophilic space?
The principles of biophilic design can be boiled down to four key aspects: lots of green plants, natural light, clean air and water. Biophilic design, for example, often reaches for renewable energy sources. So if you have the opportunity, it's worth thinking about setting up photovoltaic panels. Biophilic design also uses natural, non-toxic building and finishing materials. Recycling and sustainable use of raw materials for furniture and furnishings is also an important element. The undoubted advantage of biophilic design is that we can apply this trend to any room and building. Depending on the needs and possibilities, we only adjust the appropriate solution. In a small interior, potted plants should be the basis. Adding natural materials such as stone and wood and earth colors, we will create a pleasant and natural space. It is also worth betting on simple forms of furniture. This way we will not disturb the harmony. In larger rooms, we have the opportunity to use much more complex solutions. An interesting choice can be a vertical garden, or the popular green wall. It involves placing moss, grass or flowers on the wall in an appropriate way. Biophilic design engages all the senses. The combination of sight, hearing and smell allows for an even better effect and reflects positively on our health. Arranged in this trend, the living room will combine the sense of sight through a large number of wide windows with the sense of smell through the placement of fragrant plants. Add to this the rustling leaves that engage the sense of hearing and thus we have the perfect blend to soothe our nerves.
Arta shower enclosure
© Radaway
Benefits of biophilic design
Research on biophilia has shown that humans living in highly developed cities are losing out on mental and physical health. The task of biophilic design is to offset this negative impact. The presence of nature in our homes prevents depression and ill health. An abundance of plants and natural materials can be equivalent to even a few minutes' walk in the woods. In addition, plants purify the air, which significantly improves the comfort of our lives. Biophilic design principles are especially important for people who work from home. Plenty of natural light indoors makes our productivity increase by as much as 15%. It also helps reduce stress by lowering blood pressure. What's more, being able to see expansive vistas and look into the distance reduces the risk of myopia.
