Nature in the living space: A guide to biophilic design
‘Biophilia’ is the love of life and/or living things, and it’s becoming an increasingly popular approach to how we live and design our spaces.
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Biophilic design - an introduction
Although the term may not be familiar to everyone, the concept of biophilia is longstanding and humans are widely acknowledged to have an innate connection to nature. In the evolving industrial and technological world, we’re increasingly finding our relationship with the natural world diminishing.
In response to this, many architects and designers now realise the implications of our loosening ties with nature and have started to take steps to incorporate the natural world into our lives more effectively. This is where the concept of biophilic design comes in. Biophilic design aims to integrate nature into architecture and interior design through natural materials and forms in a fundamental way, in order to create environments that promote wellness and positivity.
The benefits of biophilic design
Biophilic design isn’t just an aesthetic-focused concept aimed at designing spaces to harmonise more readily with nature. Whilst this is partially the case, it is mainly implemented for functional purposes related to the physical and mental wellbeing of those who interact with the environment on a regular basis.
There have been numerous studies to suggest the positive benefits of interaction with nature. Research has shown that nature can improve productivity, lower stress levels, enhance learning comprehension, and increase recovery rates from illness.
Take a workspace for example. A dull, uninspiring office with artificial light can make people feel lethargic and low on energy. This is where biophilic design’s benefits reveal themselves – studies show that directly accessing nature can alleviate feelings of stress and enable better focus, as well as increase mental stamina and productivity. Exposure to natural daylight is also important to help elevate our moods and balance the hormone that regulates sleep. Therefore, biophilic design isn’t just about aesthetics, it could be essential for our happiness and wellbeing.
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To provide a foundation of understanding, biophilic design can be broken down into three categories…
1. The physical presence of nature
As the name suggests, this refers to the actual presence of nature in a physical sense, whether that is through plant life, water or animals. This also includes natural elements such as breezes, sounds and scents.
Potted plants, water features and flowerbeds are examples of nature in the space, and the most effective manifestations of this are when these natural elements are utilised in such a way that meaningful connections can be developed.
The visual aspect of nature is key in biophilic design. A fundamental cornerstone of this design ethos is that elements of plant life and natural life are woven into the overall design and aesthetic of a space to define and connect people with nature in a conscious, profound way. The initial visual aspect; seeing plants, woods and water for example, can also be supported by sounds and smells which we associate with the natural world.
2. Nature’s shapes, forms, patterns and processes
Another element of biophilic design involves non-living but organic evocations of the natural world. These could be things like objects, materials, colours and shapes that are manifested as artwork, furniture or textiles. Wooden furniture is a great example of a natural analogue, as it is evocative and reminiscent of nature without coming directly from a natural environment like a plant or tree.
So, patterns or textures that occur in nature, as well as materials with a connection to nature (wood, stone) create a distinct connotation of the natural world, and thus form an important part of biophilic design. Our natural wood and stone effect LVT flooring solutions are therefore the perfect complement to this approach.
3. Space and Place
In terms of our relationship with space, there are fundamental nature-occurring elements which affect the way we experience and enjoy a space. Whether this is an unimpeded view looking out over countryside, or a place of refuge where we can withdraw to relax and experience some quiet time.
When introducing physical elements of biophilic design, it’s important to consider the space and placement of such elements. Indoor plants should be located in areas where they will be regularly noticed and interacted with, giving them a fundamental presence, which imprints a natural ambience on the space.
If you feel inspired by the concept of biophilic design and would like to incorporate it into your next project, then your local retailer will happily talk to you about the best flooring styles to compliment this approach.