Simple ways to apply biophilic design at home with Habitat [AD]

[This is a paid partnership written in collaboration with Habitat]

There’s a growing awareness around just how much our surroundings can effect our wellbeing. Now that we spend more time indoors than ever – research suggests around 90% of our day is spent inside – it’s more important than ever that our interior spaces are designed to make us feel better. Wellbeing describes a state of contentment and good health – when designed well, these spaces have the power to nurture, inspire and help us flourish. Our homes, in particular, allow us to retreat from the world, slow down and recuperate in our own private sanctuary.

This summer Habitat is exploring the trend for Biophilic design. Biophilia literally translates into a ‘love of nature’. The term has been defined by Edward O. Wilson as the ‘the innate tendency to focus on life and life-like processes’. It proposes that we have an evolutionary predisposition to recognise and relate to the natural environment. In the design world, Biophilic design translates as a set of principles that allow us to reconnect with the outside world, whether it’s directly from plants and greenery, through natural textures and materials, or with patterns and forms we recognise from nature.

The idea is that by putting people as the focus, spaces designed with Biophilic design principles can relieve stress, boost the mood and appeal to the senses on a deeper level. At an event arranged by Habitat with architect Oliver Heath, he told us about some research examples where hospital patients have recovered quicker with a green view, and that even sleeping in a wooden bed can reduce your heart rate. A lot of it makes sense – we know that we feel reinvigorated after a walk outdoors or relaxed by looking out of the window onto a beautiful landscape. It’s just about being more mindful about how your home can make you feel – hopefully, when done right, calmer and happier.

It’s really easy to bring Biophilic design principles into the home, here are five simple tips:

– Choose furniture made of natural materials
Materials such as bamboo, rattan and wood appeal because they have a natural tactility to them – you can’t help but run your hands over their surface. They bring a sense of warmth that you don’t always get from cool metals and synthetic man-made materials. I think it’s because they have variation and nuance in their texture; the grains, knots and organic lines  are all part of their seduction.

Look for designs made of solid wood rather than veneers. Natural materials are more likely to stand the test of time; the patina and texture just getting better with age. I think we’ll be talking a lot more about off-gassing from furniture in the future and the chemicals that artificial materials can give off – but going natural is a safe, durable choice. With its oiled oak frame, Habitat’s mid-century style wooden armchair evokes a simple, timeless form with a deep inviting seat made of charcoal-coloured fabric.

– Add an element of texture and pattern
Certain textures can be used to mimic those you might see in the natural world; it could be a series of honeycomb-shaped tiles, the lined marks on a vase or something as abstract as the shape of a set of curves on a rug. These patterns help to bring life to a space and create pockets of interest for the eye to focus on.

You can use soft furnishings and accessories in linen, organic cotton and wool to bring a feeling of cosiness to a space. A stonewashed sofa throw in grey adds a lightweight layer in the summer with its waffle-like weave slightly frayed edges. A hand-loomed, monochrome cushion features a subtle pattern by combining wool and silk threads.

– Maximise the natural daylight in a space
Just like plants, we too need lots of natural light to survive and feel good. Natural light helps guide our circadian rhythm – the natural 24 hour cycle that helps us feel energised in the morning and ready for bed in the evenings. Bright, airy spaces flooded with natural light can lift our mood; just think how dark, dingy rooms can make us feel sleepy and lethargic. Think carefully about window treatments so they don’t block out the light, remove any obstructions in front of a window and use mirrors to bounce light around. Consider the brightest spots when arranging your furniture. If you work from home position your desk next to a window – the natural light will help you stay alert and focused.

– Think about all the senses
As well as sight and touch, you can also consider sound and smell in the home. That could be as simple as opening the window every morning to let in some fresh air or blocking out traffic noise with soothing music. In terms of scent, I know I love to light a candle with essential oils to help me relax, whether it’s while I’m working or in the evening. Choose fresh scents such as eucalyptus, rosemary and bergamot to evoke the natural world.

– Add some plants in the home
This is probably one of the easiest and most effective ways to bring an element of Biophilic design into the home. Not only do plants improve indoor air quality by capturing pollutants, they have also been shown to reduce stress levels and improve productivity in work spaces. The benefits are most apparent in window-less rooms or where a space lacks a green view, but even a few plants in any type of space can boost wellbeing.

Some of the best varieties for air purifying include ferns, the peace lily, and Areca or bamboo palm. If you’re stuck for space, try a few herbs on a windowsill, a small succulent on a coffee table or a hanging planter from a curtain or shower rail. I’ve created a green-filled focal point in my living room by filling the tiled fireplace with plants. A variety of heights and plant pots adds interest. Suitable for both inside the home and outdoors, these grey speckled plant pots are made from a durable polyresin that gives them the matt texture of concrete (linking back to what I said earlier about pattern and materiality). As my home is predominantly neutral, I find plants add a pop of colour and sense of life.

I think we’ll be hearing much more about Biophilic design as we seek to create more healthier, more sustainable homes. There’s lots more to Biophilic design and it’s something I want to read more about, but a few simple, mindful changes in the home are a good place to start.

Do you think you’ll be using Biophilic design principles in the home?