Biophilic Interior Design: Consultants and Designers
We provide biophilic interior design consultation services for real estate developers, hotel brands and architecture studios, integrating sustainability and wellbeing.
WHAT IS BIOPHILIC DESIGN MEANING?
As biophilic design consultants we aim to bring the outside world in whilst considering our environmental impact and positively influencing occupant wellbeing. Biophilic design fosters connections between people and natural elements, promoting health, well-being, and environmental awareness through direct and indirect experiences of nature.
This holy trinity of nature + sustainability + wellness is the definition of biophilic design as applied within a wellbeing interior and healthy building strategy, benefitting physical and mental health as well as the environment. Inspiration for biophilic design often comes from natural forms, landscapes, and the natural world itself, guiding our creative choices along the path to delivering healthy, vibrant spaces.
WHAT IS BIOPHILIC DESIGN CONCEPT?
The elements of biophilic design at our disposal as an interior designer cover both direct and indirect biophilia, from air-purifying plants and other plant life to living walls, flooring, wall decor, acoustic panels, artworks, sound, scent, fabrics and upholstery.
Essentially, we are looking to use a biophilic design concept to improve the home's air quality by increasing access to fresh air and natural ventilation, boost occupant mood and productivity, and reduce stress levels.
WHAT are BENEFITS OF BIOPHILIC DESIGN?
In terms of wellbeing, interior spaces featuring a biophilic design concept have been proven in scientific research studies to reduce anxiety, enhance mood, restore concentration and creativity levels and provide a sense of vitality / nature-connectedness. Stress reduction is arguably the main benefit of biophilic design, as incorporating natural elements and views can help lower physiological stress indicators and promote overall well-being.
In our view, after 10+ years in this business, biophilic design should make sustainable design principles an integral part of the interior design process in order to minimize environmental impact.
When considering mood enhancement, colour psychology plays a significant role in selecting colors that evoke specific emotional responses and align with the intended purpose of each space. After many years singing from the ‘green plants + natural woods + white wall’ hymn sheet, we now aim to adapt our style to each project to ensure the most effective biophilic impact.
Air-purifying plants and botanical design are fundamental biophilic design principles, whether that be planter boxes, vertical gardens, indoor gardens, green roof gardens, hydroponic vertical farm towers, or plants hanging from the ceiling.
As biophilic designers we leverage a wide range of botanical design strategies for all of their wellness benefits.
natural beauty in biophilic design interiors
Any definition of biophilic design will likely suggests it can transform a space into a harmonious collection of natural elements that boost mood, productivity and wellbeing.
Integrating a sense of place through local artworks and materials is one example, as are using natural patterns and textures. A color palette inspired by nature, such as greens, blues, and browns, can evoke calming and restorative feelings.
The glue that holds it all together in our opinion as biophilia experts advising developers, landlords and tenants however, is the less tangible concept of natural beauty. Incorporating natural shapes, such as wavy or rounded forms, in artworks and materials can help create a soothing environment.
Interiors that nourish the soul are good for overall occupant happiness levels. Natural analogues, like organic-inspired patterns and materials, can further enrich the connection to nature in interior spaces.
natural materials in biophilic design interiors
The value system behind biophilic interior design entails using sustainably sourced organic materials such as wood, cork, wool, leather and stone.
A biophilic design concept can also integrate circular economy materials made from coffee grinds, railroad timber, seaweed and coconut fibre, amongst many others.
We also specialise in plant-based materials, fruit byproduct materials, upcycled ocean plastic fabrics amongst others.
This approach ensures an elemental, cohesive aesthetic every time.
Restorative spaces in biophilic design interiors
We design biophilic outdoor spaces, multi-sensory recharge rooms or ‘restorative spaces’ with a strong connection to nature as a way to stimulate physical or mental activity, exposure to daylight and enhance overall wellbeing in building occupants. These are especially relevant for healthy coworking offices and workspaces for example.
A key component of the WELL Building Standard, FITWEL healthy building, Living Building Challenge and LEED green building systems, recharge rooms and outdoor spaces with landscaping or other natural features have been proven to reduce stress and promote feelings of vitality through biophilia.
In its quest for harmony with nature, biophilic interior design can integrate sound-absorbing solutions for acoustic comfort such as acoustic panels, moss walls, privacy booths and eco flooring panels that reduce ambient noise while adding a natural aesthetic into a space.
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ound wellness is an emerging trend that includes biophilic sound interventions. To create a truly multi-sensory experience, aromatherapy can be used in HVAC ducts to energise or regenerate.
See our case study on the Vitamin Nature space research study for The Wardian Case / EcoWorld Ballymore in London, UK
A key component of the WELL Living Future and LEED green building standards, providing access to indoor spaces via indoor landscaping has a positive impact on mental health making this biophilic design concept ideal for workplaces and residential buildings as well as spas and gyms.
Our biophilic house design strategies look to enhance access to natural light, views onto nature—including the presence of trees that offer visual and sensory connections to the outdoors—and fresh clean air, all of which help avoid ‘Sick Building Syndrome’.
Integrating biophilic principles into home design is essential for creating a healthier and more natural living environment.
As a commercial interior design consultancy this expertise can be delivered as a complete design service, or as an external advisor assisting the lead project architects and interior designers.
indirect biophilia
indirect BIOPHILIA IN INTERIOR DESIGN
From faux flower installations to nature-inspired wall murals, botanical artworks, moss mosaics, terrariums and more, there is a myriad of such ‘indirect’ representations of nature available to us as biophilic designers.
Indirect representations of living things, such as plants and organic forms, can evoke a sense of vitality and foster a deeper connection to the environment. These solutions are ideally suited to spaces with low or no natural light, meaning living plants would struggle to survive.
Even such representations of nature provide many of the same stress-reducing mental health properties as living plants without the operational responsibility.
Motifs inspired by tree branches, including fractal patterns or biomorphic curves, can further enhance the connection to nature by introducing organic, layered aesthetics reminiscent of natural environments.
organic interiors wabi-sabi interiors
Wabi-sabi is a Japanese concept meaning beauty in natural imperfection, a key tenet of organic interior design.
We implement this concept in our biophilic interior consulting work via the introduction of natural, organic and handmade artworks, rugs, sculptures, fabrics and materials that add patina and texture to a biophilic interior space.
This is in contrast to industrialized, machine-made materials that lack the natural patina of age - a key concept in biophilic design principles.
So while this design aesthetic may be less applicable to an office design consultancy assignment, it is especially relevant for hotels, resorts, restaurants and residential contexts.
biodesign & biomimicry in BIOPHILIC DESIGN
An increasingly prominent component of the biophilic design concept, ‘biodesign' typically relates to biophilic products in particular rather than biophilic interiors in general.
A biodesign will likely feature bio-materials that protect valuable natural resources and cause no harm to the planet, or perhaps biofabrication that involves growing a product from a natural material such as mycelium.
Biomimicry really takes nature as a guide to create a rigorous methodology of imitation and cross-fertilization between nature and industrial design or architecture.
green + healthy building standards
Biophilic design, sustainability and wellbeing
We define as ‘the human love of or need for a close connection with nature and other forms of life’ - an attempt to reunite indoor and outdoor worlds through the sensitive use of natural materials, shapes, breezes, colors, scents, and sounds in urban architecture and interiors.
Landscape design plays a crucial role in biophilic design by fostering a harmonious relationship between built environments and nature, and should be integrated from the outset to enhance sustainability and adaptability across different project types.
As biophilic design consultants working in the healthy buildings sector, we view biophilic design as being a fundamentally Triple Bottom Line concept as it brings benefits for People, Planet and bottom line Profit.
We define biophilia as ‘the human love of or need for a close connection with nature and other forms of life' - an attempt to reunite indoor and outdoor worlds through the sensitive use of natural materials, shapes, breezes, colors, scents, and sounds in urban architecture and interiors.
As biophilic design consultants working in the healthy buildings sector, we view biophilic design as being a fundamentally Triple Bottom Line concept as it brings benefits for People, Planet and bottom line Profit.
biophilic sound + WELLNESS SOUND
As part of a wellness interior inspired by nature and maximized for wellbeing benefits, various options are available to integrate mood-boosting, stress reducing sounds.
These would ideally be recorded nature sounds from nearby locations with seasonal variations but high-quality, pre-recorded wellness sound playlists are also available from a number of brands such as Delos and Swell. For more info on our expert biophilic sounds partner Swell see here.
lighting in biophilic design INTERIORS
Spaces maximized for biophilic design benefits aim to make the most use of the natural daylight available, allowing it to filter through into the core of the building's floor plate.
Smart lighting systems with LED bulbs can provide different light tones and intensities during the day to follow the body's natural 24hr cycle.
A combination of natural daylight, task lights (e.g. desk lamps or bedside lamps), uplights (e.g. standing lamps) and ceiling lights on a smart system will all help create an interior designed for wellbeing.
consultant services
biophilic design consultant
Whether there are architects and interior designers involved in a project already, or you require creative design services, we can play an advisory role to implement biophilic design services. We look to bring the outside world in for occupant health and wellbeing benefits.
By creating a natural indoor environment, we can stimulate enhanced creativity, assist in stress reduction and ensure a productive environment. See more of our case studies here.
FAQ
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The design journey for biophilic interiors begins with a deep understanding of the client’s aspirations and the unique qualities of the space.
At the outset, we as your interior designers assess the existing environment, identifying opportunities to introduce natural elements that will enhance well-being and foster a strong connection to nature.
This initial phase is crucial for developing a concept that harmoniously blends aesthetics with biophilic design principles, ensuring that every decision supports both beauty and function.
Throughout the design process, careful attention is paid to the selection of natural materials, the integration of organic shapes, and the thoughtful use of lighting design to mimic the rhythms of the natural world.
By prioritizing these elements, we as interior designers create spaces that not only look stunning but also actively improve cognitive function, reduce stress, and promote physical health.
The result is a biophilic interior that feels like an extension of nature itself—inviting, restorative, and deeply connected to the environment. This holistic approach ensures that each project, from concept to completion, delivers a space where well-being and a sense of calm are woven into the very fabric of the design.
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Implementing biophilic design is a comprehensive process that goes far beyond simply adding greenery or using natural materials.
It requires a holistic approach to interior design, one that considers the full spectrum of psychological, physiological, and cognitive benefits that come from connecting people with the natural world.
Key strategies include maximizing natural light to support circadian rhythms, incorporating water features to introduce soothing sounds and movement, and using color psychology to craft a palette inspired by nature’s own hues.
By understanding and applying the core principles of biophilic design, interior designers can create environments that support human health, enhance well-being, and foster creativity.
The thoughtful use of biophilic elements—such as vegetated roofs, living walls, and natural textures—can significantly improve a space’s air quality, reduce workplace stress, and promote a sense of connection to the outdoors.
These elements work together to create interiors that are not only visually appealing but also deeply supportive of productivity, creativity, and overall quality of life.
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Residential biophilic design is all about creating homes that nurture both body and mind, offering a sanctuary that supports well-being and a profound connection to nature.
This approach involves designing spaces that maximize natural light, utilize natural materials like wood and stone, and provide expansive views of the outdoors.
Through the thoughtful incorporation of biophilic elements—such as indoor plants, water features, and organic shapes—homeowners can cultivate a healthy home environment that enhances both physical and mental health.
Attention to color psychology, spatial configurations, and multi-sensory interactions ensures that each space feels calm, comfortable, and rejuvenating.
Subtle references to the natural world, from natural patterns to the gentle curve of organic shapes, help blur the boundaries between indoors and outdoors.
The result is a seamless transition between the built environment and nature, creating a home that feels alive, restorative, and deeply connected to the rhythms of the natural world.
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Commercial biophilic design brings the benefits of nature into the workplace and public spaces, with a focus on enhancing productivity, reducing stress, and supporting the well-being of employees and visitors.
By designing open spaces that harness natural light, incorporating biophilic elements like living walls and green roofs, and creating dedicated areas for relaxation, businesses can foster environments that inspire creativity and promote overall health.
The use of natural materials, patterns, and textures in commercial interiors not only creates a welcoming atmosphere but also reflects the company’s values and commitment to sustainability.
Whether designing a vibrant office lobby, a collaborative workspace, or an inviting outdoor area, commercial biophilic design aims to create positive, healthy environments that support the well-being of all occupants.
By incorporating elements of nature throughout the space, businesses can see tangible improvements in employee satisfaction, reduced absenteeism, and a more dynamic, creative workplace culture.
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Our role as biophilic designers goes from the masterplan phase into concept design, detailed design and fit-out phases, with post-occupancy deliverables such as occupant satisfaction surveys.
Understanding the role of biophilic design in building certifications such as BREEAM, WELL and FITWEL ensures smooth integration into a wider project team alongside architects, engineers, lighting designers, acoustics consultants and client representatives.
designing green healthy buildings like a good ancestor
How do biophilic design, sustainability, and healthy buildings fit into an evolutionary perspective on life? What does a cross-generational worldview bring to our game as biophilic design consultants? How do we join the dots between an eco gym facility and a green building? Watch Matt’s 2024 TEDx talk to find out.
Matt Morley TEDx talk 2024
trend reports
biophilic design: part 1
Real estate developers, architecture studios, mixed-use developments and offices doing big things in biophilic design
biophilic design: part 2
Residential developments, restaurants, hotels and retail stores pushing the boundaries of biophilic design
journal
contact us
Contact us
matt @ biofilico.com
Registered office: 86-90 Paul Street, London EC2A 4NE, UK
Spanish office: Montoya, Carrer d’Avila 32, Barcelona 08005, ESPANA
biophilic design glossary
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Increases productivity and creativity in workplaces
Improves patient recovery times in hospitals
Produces positive feelings of vitality
Reduces stress and anxiety
Looks mighty fine, if you know what you're doing
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For us it comes down to a magical trio of nature + sustainability + wellness. Biophilic design can be a beautiful combination of these three factors.
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We play both a lead interior designer role with a focus on implementing biophilic design principles, as well as an external consultant role advising architects and developers.
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The challenge biophilic design often comes across is the existing limitations of a specific space.
It can be complex, or near impossible to add a window for natural light access in an existing building for example, so we have to find creative alternatives.
This is where indirect forms of nature can enter the equation.
Mimicking nature in indirects ways might include murals, wallpaper, illustrations, artworks, photography, patterns, textures and colours that together create a sense of nature indoors, even if there are no direct forms of nature present (i.e. plants).
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The principles of biophilic design are grounded in our innate affinity for the natural world and focus on integrating elements of nature into the built environment to promote health, well-being, and a sense of connection to nature.
These principles include the use of natural light to support circadian rhythms, the incorporation of natural materials and organic shapes, and the thoughtful addition of biophilic elements such as plants and water features.
By applying these principles, designers can create spaces that reduce stress, improve cognitive function, and enhance creativity.
The result is an environment that not only supports physical health but also inspires a sense of wonder and connection to the natural world, making every space more vibrant and life-affirming.
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Biophilic design principles seamlessly blend beauty and function, resulting in spaces that are both visually stunning and deeply supportive of human health and well-being.
By thoughtfully incorporating natural elements and adhering to biophilic design principles, designers create environments that promote calm, comfort, and rejuvenation.
The positive effects of biophilic design are well-documented, including reduced blood pressure, improved mood, and enhanced cognitive function.
Whether in a home or a commercial setting, biophilic design strives to integrate the built environment with the natural world, fostering a sense of connection to nature.
Through the careful selection and placement of biophilic elements, designers craft spaces that inspire, restore, and reflect the inherent beauty and functionality of the natural world.