Biophilia: How to create nature inspired interiors
‘Biophilia’ is the theory that human beings have an innate tendency to seek out connections with the natural world. Urban architecture and modern lifestyles can set up barriers between us and nature, producing feelings of anxiety and discomfort that we might not be able to explain or pin down. I believe that re-introducing a connection to nature in our homes using nature-inspired interior design can reduce stress, enhance creativity and cognitive ability and generally improve our well-being. In this article, I’ll explore some of the ‘biophilic’ techniques for making your home a healthier, happier place.
Biophilia in interior design
I consider biophilic spaces to be nature-inspired interiors that contain sensory connections to the natural world. In terms of my own design practice, I find my greatest source of inspiration is always nature – whether that’s the textures of the sky and clouds, the changing colours of the leaves, a reflection in a pool of water or a stone or feather gathered from the ground. These tokens act as a starting point for many of my designs. I then strive to create spaces that bring the outdoors in by maximising natural light, incorporating materials like wood, cork and linen and introducing colours drawn from nature or the surrounding landscape.
The benefits of a nature-inspired interior
It has been proven that more natural environments are better for your psychological and physiological health, as well as improving cognitive ability. The latter is particularly important with so many of us now working at least partly from home. There are a number of theories as to why this is the case, but in my opinion, it has something to do with the quality of growth and development in the natural world. As I wrote in a recent article on this subject:
“In our fast-paced, stressful and often uncertain world, nature is one thing that is always certain – if you nurture a plant, it will grow. Seeing nature grow is a reminder that life will go on and nature will find a way.”
Practical tips for nature inspired interior design
Ralph Waldo Emerson once wrote “Adopt the pace of nature. Her secret is patience.” My biggest tip for creating your own biophilic interiors would be: take your time. Consider how the light moves through rooms at different points of the day. Think about which natural colours and motifs you feel drawn to, and try not to be swayed too much by current trends – the idea is to listen to your own instincts. Introduce plants into your home and observe what kind of temperature, humidity and light levels they prefer. Creating interior design inspired by nature is a slow and mindful journey.
Making the most of natural light
Whether you’re blessed with lots of big south-facing windows or your home is naturally darker, the key is to maximise every bit of light available and optimise your views of the natural world. At our Field House project, for example, we used lots of sheer curtains on hinged poles that could be swung completely clear of the windows when required.
Incorporating plants into interiors
Whatever your space is like, there are plants that will thrive in it. At our Brompton House project, we included different plants in every room: trailing plants on bookshelves, small cacti and succulents on a mantelpiece, a ‘cast iron’ plant (named for its extreme hardiness!) in a darker bedroom. Wherever possible, choose air-purifying plants like aloe vera or English ivy.
Taking design cues from natural forms
Nature offers us so many beautiful shapes and textures to include in our interiors, from scalloped detail to leaf motifs. In our Seville House project, we adorned cushions with botanical imagery, painted the kitchen cabinets a deep, verdant green, included a live-edge desk in the study and used wallpapers depicting leopards, birds, orange blossom trees and floral vines.
Would you like professional help with biophilic design?
Creating beautiful interior design inspired by nature takes time and thought. And as with all forms of interior design, the expertise, experience and resources that professional designers possess can be invaluable. If you’d like to talk about how we could help you integrate the healing, energising powers of nature into your home, please do get in touch.