Biophilic Design: Creating a calming home

Biophilic Design, the interior trend taking the world by storm. But what exactly is it and how can you create your own biophilic space at home? Jade Jimmieson from Alice Molloy Interiors explains everything you need to know...

Over recent years, I have noticed Biophilic design being a hot topic for projects and became fascinated with how creating a calming home can be based on our surroundings and have the power to support our emotions and help to reduce anxiety. For me, much like many others, a space can determine whether I feel calm or stressed. Whilst our surroundings cannot solve our anxieties and daily stresses, it can help to reduce such symptoms, making us feel relaxed and comforted. 

With research finding that we spend 90% of our time indoors, now more than ever, it is increasingly important to bring nature indoors. This links to the concept of Biophilic Design, which aims to connect us to the natural environment. The principles are inspired by our innate love for nature and has been proven to:

• Reduce stress
• Improve cognitive function and creativity
• Improve our wellbeing 
• Expedite healing
• Enhance productivity

With such a natural love of nature, it’s important to curate a home which is inspired by its natural textures, colours and elements. At Alice Molloy Interiors, the elements of Biophilic Design are at the forefront of our design process. Through taking the time to get to know you, your tastes and needs, we design spaces which have the power to impact our health and wellbeing. 

Our Lowndes Square project (image referenced at the top) perfectly captures the principles of Biophilic Design. Organic wooden flooring, large statement plants and neutral textures, all coincide to bring nature indoors. Natural light beautifully floods the space creating a bright and open space.

So how can we bring wellbeing into your home?

_{ABOVE: ALICE MOLLOY INTERIORS}

Colour

It is proven that colour can have a profound impact on our wellbeing. Whilst there are certain groups of colours more aligned to relaxation than others, it’s important to focus on what will make you personally feel calm and relaxed. Natural hues, particularly blue and green are recognised for their calming and relaxing qualities, whilst light tones are considered to make a room feel brighter.  

Natural Materials

Natural and tactile materials make us feel comforted and at ease. Wood, marble, linen and even concrete are just some examples of natural materials we incorporate into homes. Such surfaces come in a range of colours, meaning you can adjust the tones to suit your home. The image to the right shows an example of organic materials in the home. 

Declutter

The functionality of a space is crucial to wellbeing. Ever heard the term ‘tidy home, tidy mind’? This doesn’t mean making the space clinical and empty, but simply organising and displaying items which are loved and needed. It’s important to keep surfaces clear, carefully selecting what to display to avoid an overwhelming, busy space. Integrated storage is important in this step, allowing for an organised and open space.  

Lighting and Greenery

Lighting can deeply affect our mood. There’s a reason why the sun makes us feel so happy. With the majority of people spending their days indoors, it’s important to maximise natural light. 

When designed right, lighting can create a magical atmosphere, proven in the beautiful orangeries by Westbury Garden Rooms. The unique architectural shapes allow for playful shadows which flood the room. 

Summing-Up

Overall, it’s important to discover what makes us, as an individual, feel calm and to then fill our homes with these materials, tones and objects. 

Factoring in Colour, Natural Materials, Decluttering and Lighting & Greenery into your home or building will declutter your mind and hopefully give you a more positive outlook on life.

As you can see with our Lowndes Square project, we focused on implementing Biophilic Design and are proud of what we have delivered. 

Are you interested in bringing nature indoors and reap its mental health benefits? Or are you interested in a fresh start with your interior? Enquire now, and we will be happy to discuss how to. 

Jade Jimmieson,

Alice Molloy Interiors.