it’s grounding. it’s invigorating. it’s the nature-fuelled effect of biophilic interior design.
Cast your mind back to the last time you felt connected with nature. It might have been a rewarding trudge up a local hiking trail. A crisp morning’s dip in the sea. Or, if you’re anything like most of us, walking your furry companion in Britain's lovely weather is as close to outdoor activity as you get. As a nation, Brits spend an average of 90% of their time indoors – but have you ever stopped to think about what such a nature-starved lifestyle might be doing to our bodies, minds and holistic wellbeing?
Enter, biophilic interior design. Revolving around nature, sunlight, natural textures and organic shapes – the idea is to bring the outdoors in, reconnecting us with nature through the structure of our spaces. Sound like a breath of fresh air? Read on for a full guide to bringing the healing powers of nature to your interiors with biophilic design.
To understand biophilic interior design, we’ve first got to travel back in time a little. The term biophilia first appeared in 1973, when American psychoanalyst Erich Fromm sought to explain the innate attraction that humans have for nature and organic environments.
Fromm concluded that as humans, we’re happiest and healthiest when immersed in the natural world – defining biophilia as "the passionate love of life and of all that is alive".
If biophilia is the natural human attraction to life and nature, then biophilic design is simply channeling that philosophy into our work and living spaces. Think about it – urbanisation and the concrete jungle are brand new in the broader course of human history. Our ancestors lived up close and personal with nature for millennia, so it only makes sense that a love for such environments has found its way into our DNA.
Biophilic design uses everything from direct experiences of nature – live plants, skylights and water features – to subtler touches like stone, wood and (lots of) green that give us that organic satisfaction on a subconscious level.
When it comes to the inside of our homes, introducing nature becomes even easier. While houseplants and raw textures are the big names in biophilic interior design, the simple introduction of organic shapes, floral prints and lots of earthy greens can have a massive impact.
Now that we’re all up to speed on the idea behind biophilic interior design, let’s explore how you can start using it in your space. Natural touches look great in any setting, so don’t worry about sacrificing your personal style in the name of biophilia.
The organic look blends effortlessly with minimalism, from the heavy use of neutral tones to the general vibe of relaxed simplicity.
Introduce biophilic interior design to your minimalist bedroom with raw materials, organic textiles and plenty of earthy neutrals.
Go with bedding woven from natural fabrics like 100% cotton or linen, and swap out jazzy patterns for something a little more laid-back. Think leafy florals, simple plain-dyes or satisfying geometric shapes that evoke the natural world.
Texture is a key feature of biophilic design, so look out for finishes that remind you of the organic world. Woolly bouclé, a sheepskin cushion and a fuzzy mohair throw all provide the perfect balance of minimalism and biophilia.
Both styles centre around muted earthy shades – beiges, browns, and rich off-whites – while a healthy dose of green goes without saying.
It might seem like biophilic interior design is reserved for softer spaces, but there’s nothing stopping you from transforming your maximalist home into an all-out tropical paradise. Maximalist spaces tend to be busier and strive to make a statement, but this can be the perfect reason to recruit the soothing powers of biophilic style.
For a maximalist-biophilic bedroom, embrace a lush rainforest vibe by layering botanical prints. Look for statement bedding with nature-inspired motifs – palm leaves, rich jungle vistas or organic fungi shapes for a funkier touch.
Green is gold when it comes to biophilic design, but don't be afraid to experiment with other hues. Fuchsia, lilac and vibrant sunshine yellows are all a great fit, especially in a maximalist scheme.
More is more in the world of maximalist interiors, so don’t hold back when it comes to textures, plants and other floral accents. Monstera plants are bold and tropical while being wonderfully low-maintenance, and the classic palm leaf is always a statement-maker.
If you’re worried about having too many plants to care for, adding some artificial flora to the mix is a great option – and you’ll still get some indirect biophilic benefits just from looking at them!
Boho spaces draw on a lot of the same elements as biophilic interior design, making them a great combination that blends seamlessly.
Bohemian style is all about earthy hues, globally-inspired designs and channeling your inner free spirit through your decor – so the biophilic parallels speak for themselves.
Mingling boho and biophilic design is a perfect opportunity to fully embrace the earth tones. Start with clean white or clay-hued beige bedding – either plain-dye or patterned will work – and build your colour scheme from there.
Boho spaces can be as toned-down or bursting with colour as you like, so just how bright you go is entirely up to you. Balance the vibrant and the natural with pops of cobalt blue, zesty tangerine and a base of earthy greens like moss and olive.
As much as the boho vibe is about being wild, free and unapologetically yourself – it’s also very much concerned with cosiness, so don’t forget to layer up. Natural textures are key to both boho and biophilic interior design, so don’t hold back on the cotton throws (bonus boho points for intricate knits, tufted geometrics and fluffy tassel details).
Finish with reclaimed wood furniture and a whole forest-full of greenery – either hanging from macrame plant holders or sitting in hand-painted pots.
So, there you have it, three unique ways to bring the beauty of biophilic design to your interiors. Don’t quite see your space fitting with the minimalist, maximalist or boho vibe? Not to worry – head over to our biophilic edit for a whole range of nature-inspired decor, and build your scheme from scratch!
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