By: Lavanya ChopraNature has eternally had an undeniably moulding impact on human well-being. The thought of relaxation and rejuvenation almost instantly projects images of natural surroundings in one’s mind, be it the majestic sea, mountains, or forests.
Biophilic Design emerges from the idea of ‘Biophilia’, a theory which suggests that humans innately possess and seek a strong connection with nature. The Greek origin of the word translates loosely into ‘a love for living things’.
In modern interior design, one draws inspiration from various characteristics of nature and interprets them as design elements. Read on to learn how your spaces can exude that biophilic charm!
1. Welcome Natural Light Wholeheartedly
An assured way to celebrate nature indoors is through daylight and its optimum utilisation within the interior scheme. Sunlight is proven to impact human mood, body rhythms, and sleep cycles.
Choose sheer or light fabric curtains/drapes/blinds when layering large windows to ensure a desirable amount of natural light makes its way in. Likewise, remove large or bulky furniture that obstructs windows or openings to give your space a brighter demeanour.
2. Give into Greens
Introducing plants is one of the most budget-friendly and effective ways to hike the biophilic factor in spaces. Indoor plants are proven to enhance the air quality of rooms, lower blood pressure, and pose as mood-boosters kudos to the property of the colour green.
Select from a wide array of species best suited to the light and ventilation conditions of your spaces to create refreshing corners, balconies, or verandahs. Furthermore, elevate the aesthetic with a selection of planters or pendant pots available in ceramics, terracotta, FRP, concrete, etc.
3. Spotlighting Natural Materials
Biophilic design leans strongly in the direction of sustainable, earthy, and indigenous materiality. Evoke a sense of the outdoors by working with a palette of natural materials that make one feel connected with nature instantly.
A few popular examples include bamboo, cork, rattan, timber, reclaimed wood, and natural stone varieties in the form of construction material, furniture, artefacts, and decor. For fabrics, focus on breathable and organic choices like sustainably produced cotton, linen, and muslin.
4. Softer Forms and Silhouettes
Close observation reveals that nature is dominated by curved, soft-edged patterns and forms that bear an intentional sense of imperfection. To channel a biophilic appeal, one could work more organic-formed pieces of furniture, decor, and lighting into spaces.
This instantly imbues a feeling of warmth and cosiness, creating looks trending in the modern interior design landscape. Curved, arched, spherical capsule forms have been ruling the roost recently, making them popular furniture, artefacts, and lighting choices!
5. Harnessing Serenity with Water
Soothing and calming, the presence of still or softly running water in indoor or outdoor zones is an assured way of transforming the atmosphere of spaces. Add a small yet focal water element like a tabletop or floor-embedded water feature indoors. Larger alfresco areas like patios, backyards, or balconies could host larger pools of water or fountains for that touch of zen.
Tracing Our Roots to Nature
With urban areas expanding their footprint by the day, one’s connection with nature has seen a diminishing impact! Exploring biophilic design in modern interior schemes allows one to establish a renewed and strengthened relationship with nature, elevating the overarching quality of life.
Does the thought of a nature-inspired sanctuary leave you enticed? Reach out to our expert team of designers at Hipcouch to book a free consultation service, or contact us to learn more about our spectrum of services.