Hooga Homes: Biophilic Interior Design & Sustainability

What is biophilic interior design?

It is to design with nature in mind. We enjoy spending time in nature; in a forest or near a waterfall where you feel a great level of euphoria and wellness. With biophilic design-bringing nature into your interior space – you can increase your well-being and encourage an emotional attachment to an interior space.

How do we do this?

There are 6 biophilic design elements:

Environmental features
Natural shapes and forms
Natural patterns and processes
Light and Space
Place-based relationships
Evolved human-nature relationships

Let me describe these elements by using examples which make it easier to understand and apply in your home.

Environmental features:

These are existing landscapes or features surrounding the property such as large trees, ocean views and snow-capped mountains to list a few. Design the interior based on the features outside by using repetition, viewpoints and matching colour schemes.

Natural shapes and forms:

Look to nature to find natural shapes and forms such as round rocks, honeycomb, tall trees, triangular mountains and mushroom stools. Then mimic these shapes with furniture and architecture.

Natural patterns and processes:

Animal print, butterfly wings, flowers and wood grain, are examples of natural patterns that you can use. Processes should be transformative, from light to dark, bright to dull and hot to cold. A functional design can evolve with a natural process for example; blankets on couches, solar lighting and wall treatments.

Light and Space:

Natural light is best and great for your wellness; a few minutes in a sunny spot may increase the way we feel. Window dressings help soften or enhance light creating a less cluttered space and making things feel lighter. Natural pallets and reflective surfaces create shadows and beauty in the light.

Place-based relationships:

Biophilic design allows you to form a relationship with a place. An emotional connection to a space such as your child’s nursery room or favorite corner in your home is what makes you love your home. When you sit on the beach in your favourite spot, you get a certain feeling, now you can recreate that feeling in your home from a well-designed biophilic interior.

Evolved human-nature relationships:

Sustainability in preserving our planet becomes more evident as our relationship evolves with nature. We are more open to sustainable materials, off-the-grid power and the need for improved diet and exercise. These all go hand in hand with a biophilic design and wellness lifestyle.

Biophilic design requires repeated and sustained engagement with nature. It’s a lifestyle choice and can only be beneficial for your home and personal well-being.