The Basics of Biophilic Design
Believe or not, this term is not a recent invention. Initially coined in 1964 by psychologist Erich Fromm who described it as “the passionate love of life and all that is alive”. It was then biologist Edward O Wilson who made the concept more known in 1984. He published the book ‘Biophilia’ where it was defined as “the urge to affiliate with other forms of life”.
Although we have diverted from living in close quarters with the natural world thanks to urbanization, we crave nature. We are attracted to living things. They bring us joy, comfort, and peace. When we find ways to incorporate living things and the natural world in our lives, we lead better lives. It’s been scientifically proven to have beneficial effects on our productivity, reduce stress levels, enhance our critical thinking and learning abilities and even aid in all kinds of recoveries.
How To Use it in Your Home and Workspaces
We’ve probably all spent more time in our homes over the past few years than ever before. During this time, you’ve probably viewed your environments under closer inspection. If you’re looking to freshen and liven up your home and life, consider incorporating touches of biophilic design.
Introducing nature-themes into your home and office spaces is easier than you may think! Here are our top recommendations.
A Plant Here and a Plant There
It’s as simple as that. Whether you consider yourself to have a green thumb or not, adding houseplants into different rooms of your home or on your workspaces, is a simple yet efficient way to get started. Opt for low-maintenance plants that don’t have long care sheets if you’re a beginner. Ideally, start with a few plants until you get the hang of it.
Let the Light In!
Gone are the days of heavy window coverings that drown out the sunlight. Let there be light, and the productivity it brings. Open a window occasionally, even for a few minutes to circulate fresh air within your home. More natural light allows helps to fight depression and can assist in regulating your circadian rhythms helping you achieve a restful sleep each night. Furthermore, select lighter paint colours to help brighten things up.
Opt for Organic Elements and Natural Tones
Surround yourself with organic elements like wood and stone and in hues of the natural world. Colours, textures, and shapes that help you reminisce the outdoor world will cultivate happiness and provide a sense of calm. The additions to your home don’t have to be grand, even small pieces of décor will help revitalize areas and workspaces.
Incorporate Art
Art in its many forms speaks volumes without ever saying a single word. Nature-inspired works of art have the same impact. Whether a photograph, painting, mural, or print. In the moment that you gaze upon art hanging in your home, you are whisked away, and you feel better emotionally. Viewing scenes of nature has been proven to reduce anger, fear, and stress all while increasing pleasant and delightful feelings.
Sounds and Smells of Nature
Last but certainly not least, we can’t forget about our other senses. While our first four recommendations focus on the sights of biophilic design, it can be just as powerful to incorporate the sounds and smells of the outdoors world. Noise machines that play sounds of the rainforests or waves gently crashing to the shores will help you fall asleep faster and bring on a sense of relaxation. Fragrant flowering plants can uplift and brighten rooms, essential oils in diffusers can soothe anxiety and calm the mind and heart.
As our relationships with our own homes, offices and workspaces continue to change, consider making small biophilic-driven changes to reap their benefits. If you’re looking for plants to start, be sure to check out our “Guide to Houseplants: Winter Essentials, Ed1.”, for a great place to start.
If you’re looking for additional inspiration follow us on Pinterest! We are constantly pinning ideas on how to bring biophilic design into your home. In addition, be sure to follow us on Instagram, to stay up to date on all things Emerson Wild.
