Bringing the outdoors in: Biophilic design trends in home decor

Introduction

Today, with our fast pace, our home is no longer just a shelter but a sanctuary where we go to seek peace and rejuvenation. Inspired by our natural bond with nature, biophilic design is slowly gaining its importance in home decor. Through an Interior design company with natural elements we can create not only aesthetically pleasing spaces but also healthy ones that can help us in living better lives.

 

Elements of Biophilic Design

Natural Light: Maximise natural light with large windows, skylights, and sheer curtains. Sunlight has been proven to boost mood, enhance vitamin D production, and even regulate circadian rhythms.

Plants: Introduce a range of indoor plants, from leafy greens to flowering varieties. Plants add aesthetic appeal, purify the air, reduce stress, and increase humidity. Think vertical gardens, hanging plants, and terrariums to make the most of your space.

Natural Materials: Add furniture, flooring, and decor with natural materials such as wood, stone, and natural fibres like cotton, linen, and wool, which can breathe warmth, texture, and authenticity.

Water Features: The sound of water has tremendous calming power and can be in the form of a small fountain, aquarium, or even a waterfall.

Natural Views: Frame views of nature, such as trees, gardens, or bodies of water, with your window placements. If direct views are limited, use nature-inspired artwork, such as landscapes and botanical prints.

Organic Shapes: Introduce organic shapes and curves into your decor, mimicking the natural world. Think of flowing lines in furniture, rounded edges, and asymmetrical arrangements.

Benefits of Biophilic Design

  • Reduced Stress: Exposure to nature has been proven to reduce cortisol levels, the stress hormone. Biophilic elements can help create a more relaxing and calming home environment.
  • Improved Mood: Studies have shown that spending time in nature can boost mood, increase feelings of happiness, and reduce anxiety.
  • Increased Productivity: Bringing nature indoors can enhance focus and creativity.
  • Enhanced Well-being: Biophilic design can improve air quality, increase humidity, and provide a sense of connection to the natural world, all of which contribute to overall well-being.

Incorporating Biophilic Design

  • Start Small: Begin by adding a few houseplants or incorporating natural materials into your existing decor.
  • Prioritise Plants: Choose a variety of plants that thrive in your home’s lighting conditions.
  • Bring the outdoors in: By using large windows and natural stone or wood to integrate with the outdoor spaces.
  • Choose a Nature-Inspired Colour Scheme: Earthy tones, such as greens, browns, and blues, bring peace and serenity to your interior.

 

Custom Furniture Design:

  • Personalisation is Paramount: Gone are the days of cookie-cutter interior furniture. Consumers are increasingly seeking pieces that are unique and tailored to their specific needs and aesthetics.
  • Craftsmanship and Quality: Custom furniture often emphasises high-quality materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and attention to detail.
  • Sustainability Focus: Many designers are incorporating eco-friendly materials and sustainable practices into their custom creations.

Light Design:

  • Beyond Illumination: Lighting has transcended its functional role to become a powerful design element.
  • Layered Lighting: Creating ambiance becomes layered, or the combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting.
  • Smart Lighting Technology: Integration of smart home technology introduces customised lighting schemes to enhance ease and aesthetics.

Wall Art & Decor:

Bold Statements: Walls are acting as canvases for artistic statements.
Maximalist Trends: Bold colours are on the uptick, especially in large prints, and curating eclectic collections. Textured surfaces are also three-dimensional with tapestry, macramé, or sculptural elements in wall hangings.

Space-Saving Furniture Design:

Multi-Functional Marvels: In urban environments, maximising space is crucial.
Transformative Pieces: Furniture that can adapt and change function is highly sought after. Think of sofa beds, nesting tables, and storage ottomans.
Vertical Solutions: Utilising vertical space with shelves, wall-mounted storage, and climbing plants is key.

CONCLUSION

This type of biophilic design has an approach for developing a healthy, inspiring living environment. The element of nature could then be introduced in homes to bring improvements to health, diminish stress, and promote a much more harmonious environment with rejuvenating characteristics.