Biophilic design is the practice of creating a closer connection to nature through the way buildings and landscapes are created and constructed. It derives from the word “Biophile” coined by Erich Fromm, a German sociologist and psychoanalyst.

Erich Fromm defined biophile in his book as “a passionate love for life and all that is alive, whether in a person, a plant, an idea or a social group”.

Stephen Kellert, considered one of the pioneers of biophilic design, has created a framework in which nature in the built environment is used to meet human needs. The basic principles of this framework are to respect nature and create enriching living spaces.

Aiming to create a sense of harmony between modern architecture and the natural world, this design fulfills our innate need to connect with nature. In doing so, it focuses on the various aspects of nature that contribute to our health and well-being. Nature relaxes us mentally and, accordingly, biophilic design does the same. It has been shown to reduce stress and mental fatigue by providing mental restoration.

In contemporary life, it is estimated that we spend 90% of our time indoors. What biophilic changes can we create in our living spaces in the meantime?

Ventilation

When we hear the sound of rain, wind or birds through an open window, it attunes us to the season and the weather. To make sure your home gets enough fresh air, you can open the windows as much as possible so that you can make the most of the daylight.

Light and shadow

There is growing evidence that we are healthier when our circadian rhythm is balanced. To regulate this rhythm, it is important to make good use of daylight.

Moreover, when we are in a room, we instinctively stand in the sunnier and warmer spots.

For this reason, you can create a sitting/relaxation area where you can spend a long time by choosing a sunny spot in the interior where you spend most of your time.

No room for borders

Even if it is a small backyard, balcony, patio or courtyard, the smallest spaces can be effectively incorporated into the interior to create living spaces in harmony with nature.

These parts of the house can be used as workspaces or living rooms for about six months of the year in many climates. The feeling of spending more time in areas that open to the outside while feeling sheltered blurs the boundaries between the inside and outside of your home.

Strength of materials

Natural materials such as wood or stone offer us alternatives of textures and patterns that replicate the sensory diversity we experience in nature.

Natural patterns

Today, straight lines and right angles dominate most building materials. Creating the curved shapes and forms we see in nature can be costly. However, you can include patterns and motifs reminiscent of nature in your decoration.

Spirit of the Place

Due to the global economy and the same materials and products being sold all over the country, our homes can have a sense of incongruity and may not reflect the climate or culture of the region. Whether we live in a desert, by the ocean or in a vast forest, understand the character of the area and use it as inspiration for your home.

Observation, Observation and Observation

Most importantly, when you’re looking for inspiration for your home, know that you can always benefit from the ongoing changes and the things you didn’t notice before when you go out and walk in nature.