In today’s fast-paced world, it’s no wonder we crave more connection to the natural environment. With technology woven into nearly every aspect of our lives, the desire for a touch of nature in our homes and workplaces has never been stronger. This is where biophilia, a design approach that integrates natural elements into built spaces, comes into play. The concept of biophilia is simple yet impactful: it seeks to satisfy our innate affinity for nature by incorporating it into the places where we live, work, and play.
What Is Biophilic Design?
Biophilia may sound like a complex term, but it’s really just a fancy way to say, “Humans love nature!” Biophilic design takes this a step further, intentionally weaving elements of nature into indoor environments. By incorporating natural materials, colours, shapes, and even light patterns, biophilic design creates spaces that feel more alive and support our well-being. Studies show that biophilic elements can reduce stress, boost mood, enhance overall quality of life and even make us feel a little less like we're living in a concrete jungle.
NATURE INFORMED HOME DESIGN:
Natural Lighting
Sunlight is a crucial aspect of biophilic design. Exposure to natural light supports our circadian rhythms, improves mood, and can even increase productivity. Modern homes often include floor to ceiling windows, skylights, or strategically positioned light sources that mimic sunlight. Thoughtful sun studies help determine the optimal placement of light sources to bring just the right amount of daylight into a space.
Vaulted ceilings with gable windows allow light to flood into this living room; Taupō show home, in Wharewaka.
Earthy Tones and Organic Materials
Colours inspired by nature, like greens and browns, add a calm, grounded feel. And organic materials - wood, stone, marble, clay - help keep us connected to our roots. Creating a sense of calm can be as simple as painting walls in earthen tones or choosing earth-toned cabinetry.
Stone inspired splashback and timber accessories, Panui Show Home, Auckland North.
Indoor Plants
Bringing plants indoors is the easiest way to boost your biophilia points. Whether it’s a potted fern or a full-on green wall, plants purify the air, add colour. Windows overlooking a planted breezeway or courtyard is a clever way to improve our connection with nature.
Living room windows overlooking a landscaped courtyard help bring nature in, at the Taupō show home in Wharewaka.
Pot plants inside bring instant green and purify air, Peakedale, Matamata.
Natural Shapes and Patterns
Biophilic design loves curves and flowing forms, which mimic the shapes of rivers, trees, and rocks. Think wavy lines, circular patterns, and surfaces that look like they were inspired by the great outdoors - no straight edges required.
The Riverview subdivision in Kaukapakapa has smooth landscaping, walkways, and a curved stone entranceway to welcome you.
Water Features and Views
Water, light, and open views all contribute to a sense of tranquility. A small indoor fountain, a window overlooking greenery, or even an aquarium can create a serene atmosphere that helps reduce stress.
Neighbourhoods inspired by nature
Biophilic design is influencing more than just each home’s architecture but also how new subdivisions and neighbourhoods are designed. For example, Arbor Green, is a new neighbourhood in Christchurch where streets, landscaping and amenities have been purposefully designed to bring people together and enhance everyday wellbeing.
The Landing in One Tree Point, Northland is a subdivision developed to maximise sun and views, with mostly north-east facing sites. Accessibility to walkways, beaches, boat-ramps, and public amenities all help improve well-being.
The Landing, One Tree Point, overlooking the beauty of Mount Manaia.
THE BENEFITS OF BIOPHILIC DESIGN
Besides making us feel a bit more in touch with our inner nature-lover, biophilic design has real benefits. Research shows it can enhance recovery from illness, reduce stress, and improve our ability to focus (which helps in a world full of distractions). Kids thrive in biophilic spaces, and workers become more productive and motivated. Plus, communities benefit as these spaces create a sense of place and peace - without needing to actually move to the countryside.
As our lives become more digital, biophilic design is a much-needed reminder that a little nature goes a long way. We’re creating healthy spaces that not only look beautiful but actually make us feel good. Embracing biophilia is more than a design trend - it’s a breath of fresh air.