How to bring biophilic design inside your home in 2022

Design trends come and go, often a reflection of the country’s country ethos. Therefore, it is not really surprising that the events of 2020 and 2021 have pushed design trends towards a connection with nature. So much so that there is a designation for this type of architectural and decorative style. Biophilic design is the primary design trend of 2022.

What is biophilic design?

In essence, biophilic design connects residents with nature. It not only focuses on natural elements such as cross ventilation and natural lighting, but also on creating a healthy and productive space. This is something we all seem to be craving as the work-from-home trend extends.

The prefix biome means life, which explains why the movement includes so many plants and other green spaces. This will be within the space and within the views from the windows and doors. In addition to vegetation, other natural materials such as branches and water are introduced.

Related: Verdi designs natural and mineral fiber home decor

Biophilic Design Origins

Stephen Keelert, Professor of Social Ecology at Yale University, is credited with the early foundations of the design style. He developed a guiding set of principles aimed at bringing outdoor experiences into the home environment.

light

If you are in the building (or remodeling) stage, the best way to develop a design is to invite natural light in every possible path through skylights, large windows, and glass doors.

If no remodeling is on the agenda, incorporate surfaces that reflect light, such as glass tables and large mirrors. For interior lighting, use natural and energy-saving bulbs and give yourself options with teardrop lighting, a box and a chandelier. Provide extra light for tasks with under cabinet lights, floor lamps and table lamps.

Think about how light travels through your space from morning to night and how you use the space. Put your desk or sofa near a window. Place a dining table where you will receive the evening sun.

Colors

Nature has served as a model for interior design since the time the term was coined. Color holds a lot of power in setting the tone for a space. When you’re leaning towards a lively interior, keep the color palette subtle and natural. Think creams and beiges. Also look at the calming shades of blue and green. These colors can create a background as a coating or fill the interior on furniture, curtains, rugs, and pillows.

Provide air flow

Fresh air creates an invigorating reaction. It expels stale air into space and brings an instant connection with the outdoors. With this in mind, rely on open doors and windows with screens. Cross ventilation allows air to tunnel through the space without relying on a central HVAC system. If you don’t have a natural air source, use a ceiling fan instead. Consider airflow options when placing your furniture.

the plants

Bringing living bits of nature into your space sets the tone for your connection to the natural world. Plus, because plants naturally filter the air, they provide a healthy environment. Research has also shown that caring for plants reduces stress.

Look at each level when viewing the plants. Use ceiling hooks to hang plants, mantles, window sills, half-walls, and multi-level plant stands.

water

Few natural elements elicit a response like the flow of water. You can achieve this feature with a table top or wall fountain. The movement of water, big or small, is soothing and naturally connects with the other elements of water and air.

fire

Adding a wood or gas stove or stove adds another natural element to the mix. The crackle of wood, the smell, and the look of a flame billowing upwards all evoke memories of camping, childhood summer camp, and backyard gatherings.

Keep edges smooth

Look to Mother Nature when choosing furniture and decor pieces. It does not have sharp edges. Instead of other rectangular, square, or solid shapes, opt for curved and round pieces instead. Curved sofas, round tables, circular lamp shades, and rugs add softness to the space.

Texture and balance

Every decision you make in biophilic design has the potential to add to or detract from the cohesion of an appearance. To balance the space, make sure all the elements work together. For example, massive curtains can block out natural light, so consider a sheer, flowing fabric instead.

Rely on natural materials throughout space for an immersive experience of connecting with the planet. Jute, wood, cotton, bamboo, natural yarn, stone, and wool all add to the look. Although the goal is calm, that doesn’t mean your space has to be a white palette of smooth, off-white surfaces. Use texture to give depth to throw pillows, window coverings, upholstery fabrics or rugs. Too many and the space will feel too occupied. Too little and it can feel cool and healthy. Go for a mix with small accents instead.

As a form of indirect living, put together framed or canvas art that highlights the natural aspects of fire, water, air, mountains, oceans, rivers, trees, plants, and animals as well.

via modsy

Photos via Unsplash