Wellness Residences Designer - Biophilic Home & Co-Living Design

wellness residence can ikigai by Biofilico Barcelona

Wellness residence Can Ikigai by Biofilico, Barcelona

wellness residence features

  • Indoor and outdoor gym

  • Coworking space or healthy home office

  • Access to nature

  • Deep sleep bedrooms

  • Water purification system

  • Pool, sauna, ice bath, treatment room

  • Biophilic design principles

  • Purified indoor air

  • Healthy interior materials

  • Wellness lighting systems

  • Aromatherapy

  • Acoustical comfort & sound wellness

wellness residence can ikigai biofilico

wellness residence can ikigai by Biofilico, Barcelona

Introduction to Wellness Residences

Wellness residences are thoughtfully designed living spaces that prioritize both physical and mental health by seamlessly integrating the natural world into daily life. These environments go beyond traditional interior design by focusing on holistic well-being, using biophilic design principles to create a deeper connection between residents and nature. Through the strategic use of natural materials, abundant natural light, and lush indoor plants, wellness residences foster a sense of calm, comfort, and rejuvenation.

The presence of natural elements within these spaces not only enhances aesthetics but also supports mental health, reduces stress, and improves overall quality of life. Whether in private homes, hotels, or other built environments, wellness residences transform ordinary spaces into sanctuaries that nurture health and well-being, making every moment spent indoors more restorative and uplifting.


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Biophilic Design for Homes and Hotels – Key Principles

Biophilic design is at the heart of creating living spaces that nurture well-being and support mental health. The key principles of this approach involve bringing the outdoors in by maximizing natural light, incorporating living walls and indoor plants, and selecting natural materials like wood and stone for interiors.

Layered lighting and lighting fixtures that mimic natural sunlight help to create a dynamic and inviting atmosphere, while the use of greenery and natural textures adds depth and warmth to any room. By thoughtfully integrating these elements, biophilic design establishes a strong connection to the natural world, making built environments feel more alive and harmonious.

Water features, organic shapes, and tactile materials further enhance the sensory experience, turning homes and hotels into restorative retreats that are essential for modern life. Ultimately, these principles create spaces that not only look beautiful but also actively support health, productivity, and emotional balance.

healthy indoor environment biofilico

Healthy indoor environment consultants

It is increasingly common for private clients or developers to request input on sustainable and healthy interior design to ensure a healthy indoor environment for their residents post-occupancy. Choosing eco friendly materials and solutions is a key part of this consulting process, supporting both environmental responsibility and occupant well-being.

This may be a final review of the proposed interior fit-out list of products, materials and finishes, or start earlier in the design process with us collaborating directly with the interior designers to propose healthy, green solutions where applicable. We emphasize the practical aspects of selecting materials and finishes that are easy to maintain, while sustainability remains a guiding principle in the selection of products and materials.

The objective is to reduce resident exposure, whether direct or through environmental contamination, to toxic chemicals that negatively impact human health. We also consider the maintenance requirements of materials and finishes to ensure long-term health and durability.

luxury wellness residence biofilico

Luxury wellness residence

Doha, Qatar (2021)

can ikigai healthy home barcelona biofilico

Wellness residence

Can Ikigai, Barcelona, Spain (2020)

casa biofilico barcelona espana

Healthy home

Casa Biofilico, Barcelona, Spain 2019


Biophilic design for homes and hotels - key principles

As you’ve already learned, a biophilic home is an innovatively designed place, with the ability of biophilic design features to positively influence emotions, behaviors, and overall well-being. One of the ways to apply biophilic design is to build it into a place where nature meets and transforms your personal space. The key elements we pay attention to are greenery, organic materials, lighting and energy, all of which contribute to natural comfort in the home and reflect a thoughtful blend of style and function.

Biophilic design creates a grounded atmosphere that enhances tranquility and fosters a deeper connection to nature within your living environment.

These principles are especially relevant in modern interiors, where contemporary living demands both sophistication and a human-centered approach. Designing spaces for multiple purposes—such as working, relaxing, and entertaining—is also supported by biophilic elements, which add flexibility and adaptability to your home.

Biophilic design home - where blue and green meet - the synergy of most natural colours

Biophilic design patterns represent a unique synergy of the most natural colours - green and blue. Plant and water elements are crucial particles of biophilic home design - ones that emphasize the presence of nature in the most. By adding landscape and water elements to the rooms you spend most of your time in, such as the living room, dining room and bedroom, you are recovering from and build up of stress through visual connections with nature.

In addition to blue and green, incorporating earthy tones like moss green and terracotta can create a warm, inviting atmosphere that grounds the space and enhances its natural appeal. Decorative elements with rich texture, such as wood, stone, bamboo, or woven textiles, add tactile interest and elevate the sensory experience of the interior.

A statement table, such as a stone or wood table, serves as both a functional and decorative element, contributing to the overall luxury and cohesion of biophilic interiors. Images of nature are more brain stimulating and soothing, which triggers more pleasure receptors, leading to a more effective stress release.

Organic materials for a biomimicry green home decor

Wood and stone are always a welcomed addition to a biophilic house design, especially when selecting premium materials for a more luxurious and durable finish. The same goes for natural, organic materials instead of synthetic ones when thinking of bringing biophilic design into your home.

These materials are minimally processed and provide a natural finish to your floors and walls. Incorporating thoughtful decoration, such as plant-based or artisanal decorative elements, further enhances the connection to nature and elevates the space's aesthetic.

The value of custom millwork is also significant, as it allows for unique, personalized cabinetry and built-in features that contribute to a sophisticated and curated interior.

Air CIRCULATION increases energy levels in a biophilic home

Natural lighting and ventilation are crucial for every space based on green home interior design. Improving air quality is a key benefit of biophilic design, especially through effective ventilation and the integration of indoor plants. They significantly affect energy performance in your home. The window position is crucial here, because it will impact the heating and cooling, as well as ventilation and natural daylight in your biophilic home.

The thoughtful use of technology, such as smart windows or climate control systems, can optimize natural lighting and ventilation. Automated systems can help regulate lighting, temperature, and air flow for enhanced comfort and efficiency. By orienting your windows towards natural light, you secure a more stable energy flow that affects your mood too. It is important to regularly maintain ventilation and smart systems to ensure they continue to function effectively and support a healthy indoor environment.

Green home decor

Thanks to the elements of green decor, your green home will feel more airy and open, wherever it may be. By approaching your home as a project focused on wellness and sustainability, you can create a living space that seamlessly integrates indoor and outdoor areas, offering a holistic environment for relaxation and connection with nature. Incorporating plant care into your daily routines not only enhances well-being but also fosters a harmonious relationship with your surroundings.

Natural visual stimulants, paired with daylight and lots of greenery, boost your energy levels, making you feel more motivated and relaxed, but also, more ready to face any challenges life has in store for you. Invest in high-quality, durable decor and materials for long-term benefits, and choose functional elements that combine aesthetic appeal with practical use.

Consider features or furniture that doubles as storage or seating to maximize space and utility. Let your biophilic home become your sanctuary of positive energy, where plants play a role not only in decor but also in providing food and supporting a sustainable lifestyle.

Designing for Community

Designing for community is a vital component of biophilic design, focusing on the creation of spaces that encourage social interaction and a sense of belonging. By integrating communal areas such as open-plan living rooms, shared kitchens, and inviting lounges, designers can foster environments where people naturally come together.

The use of natural materials like warm wood and textured stone, combined with ample natural light and vibrant greenery, helps to create spaces that feel both welcoming and grounded. Outdoor areas, such as gardens and courtyards, further enhance community by providing places for relaxation, recreation, and connection with nature. These thoughtfully designed spaces not only support well-being but also strengthen social bonds, making them essential for modern co-living environments and wellness-focused residences.

Creating Harmonious Spaces

Creating harmonious spaces is central to biophilic design, as it involves crafting environments that promote balance, tranquility, and overall well-being. This harmony is achieved by blending natural elements—such as lush plants, soothing water features, and organic materials like wood and stone—into the fabric of the interior.

The careful selection of natural colors, especially calming blues and greens, helps to establish a peaceful atmosphere, while layered lighting and thoughtfully chosen lighting fixtures add warmth and depth to each room. Natural textures, from woven baskets to tactile stone surfaces, further enrich the sensory experience, making the space feel both inviting and grounded.

By designing interiors that are in tune with nature, biophilic design creates a sense of equilibrium that supports relaxation, reduces stress, and enhances the quality of daily life.