Biophilic Design in Custom Homes
Biophilic Design: is it a good option to consider for a custom home?
Imagine stepping into a space that instantly puts you at ease. Natural light streaming in through well placed, rightly sized windows, greenery softening the edges of the built environment, and clean air.
Biophilic design is not new, it is an age-old approach that weaves nature into the places we live and work that is back in vogue in commercial building design (the new Apple store in Miami is a leading example) and is making it’s way back into residential design.
Why Biophilic Design Matters
Design shapes experience.
Research confirms that spaces infused with natural elements reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance well-being. Hospitals incorporating biophilic principles see faster patient recovery times. Offices with natural materials and views of greenery report higher employee satisfaction and productivity. Homes designed with nature in mind create a sense of calm and balance.
Beyond individual well-being, this design philosophy also supports sustainability. Working with nature instead of resisting it leads to energy-efficient, adaptable structures. Natural ventilation reduces reliance on mechanical cooling. Thoughtful daylighting minimizes artificial lighting. Green roofs and walls insulate buildings and enhance biodiversity. These aren’t just aesthetic choices—they are intelligent, forward-thinking solutions. These choices prioritize form and function, ensuring spaces are as practical as visually striking.
Beyond the Green Wall: Rethinking Biophilia
When people hear “biophilic design,” they often picture potted plants, living walls, or wood finishes. But proper integration goes far deeper. It’s not about decoration; it’s about transformation.
Dynamic & Diffused Light: Maximizing daylight while allowing for natural variations in brightness and shadow mimics outdoor environments, making spaces feel alive.
Natural Materials & Patterns: Wood, stone, and organic textures ground a space, while fractal patterns found in nature create a sense of harmony.
Air & Water Integration: Flowing water improves humidity and adds a multisensory element, while operable windows encourage fresh air circulation.
Refuge & Prospect: Great design balances open, airy spaces with intimate, sheltered areas, mirroring how people instinctively seek connection and retreat in nature.
Biodiversity: A single plant is a start, but layering trees, shrubs, and ground cover fosters a richer, more immersive environment.
How we are using Biophilic Design now:
We are seeing a swing towards the use of natural materials or materials that mimic nature, for example, wood grain cabinets are making a comeback, whereas painted shaker style cabinets have dominated the last ten years. Rounded corners and soft edges are being used more and more often. Paint color trends are leaving the “Grey Period” the home design industry has been in and more wood tones and earth tones are being seen. Outdoor living spaces are using modern astroturf to lessen the cold feel of concrete and stone. Natural wood beams are accenting living rooms and bedroom suites.
Interested in using Biophilic elements in your new home or office space? We’d value the chance to work with you. Please reach out and begin a conversation.