Biophilic Design, where nature and natural elements take center stage in our homes and workplaces, is the leading trend we’ve seen at the recent High Point N.C. Home Furnishings Markets. It’s about connecting people and nature within the home environment.
Biophilic design elements play a therapeutic role as they are thought of as calming, uplifting, and anxiety-reducing. This design approach strives to integrate natural elements into built environments, fostering harmony, well-being, and sustainability.
Connecting with Nature indoors
At its core biophilic design aims to blur the boundaries between the indoor and outdoor . Think rounded walls, curved furniture, skylights, and natural colors that mimic the beauty of nature.
Biophilic uses outdoor inspirations as gigantic mood boards that allow you to select from a multitude of colors, materials, shapes, and patterns. Think lush plants, warm wood, cool stone, and water and light features. Not only does it look beautiful, but it also has been proven to boost our moods, increase productivity, and reduce stress levels.
Nature’s calming influences
The emphasis on Biophilic is based on the growing appreciation for nature and its calming influence on our lives. People are seeking more comfort and coziness at home in the form of painted nooks, moody wallpaper, warm wood tones, and rich, colorful upholstery. There is a rise of soft, warm nuances that are spirit-lifting and dopamine-enhancing. We want spaces that bring nostalgic moments to mind, fond recollections from our past that elicit a sense of warmth, comfort, and longing.
Embracing Natural Materials and Textures
From incorporating organic materials like wood and stone to introducing abundant natural light and lush greenery, every element is carefully curated to evoke the soothing essence of nature . Biophilic design celebrates the inherent beauty of organic materials.
Blues and greens, of course, are obvious colors for connecting with nature. Adding to those two popular colors are pink and yellow undertones. For a calming, relaxed, and welcoming interior, earthy or nature-inspired tones are taking over.
Nature inspired textures and prints are taking centre stage. Classic floral and lattice patterns are mingled with textural solids and delicate small-scale patterns for ease of layering. Textured fabrics like mixed yarn boucle add a softer personality to the design. Burnished bronze and brown- based metals are getting more popular along with ironworks and hand-forged look.
This year, designers and homeowners alike are leaning toward furniture and home elements that embrace soft lines. Spaces continue to have curvilinear shapes and a cocooning environment. In a turbulent world, we look for our homes to be our safe-haven or refuge. Cozy, comfortable living rooms or family rooms are on trend. Curved lines represent the fluid movement of water. Furniture designers have spotted the opportunity to bring people back together; a curved sofa, for example, can do that.
The key to this trend is the focus on calm, comfort, and connection. As this trend continues to evolve, it holds the promise of reshaping our relationship with the built environment, fostering greater harmony and sustainability .
If you are interested in incorporating Biophilic design into your home, we can help. Contact us or call at 647-749-8419.
