Neuro-Aesthetics in Interior Design

Bloc 722 Lofos Villa Lounge interior design

Biofilico's Guide to Creating Interior Spaces that Positively Impact Mental and Physical Health by leveraging neuroaesthetics

In the realm of wellness interior design, a powerful and emerging concept has taken center stage: neuro-aesthetics.

In an era where well-being and holistic health are paramount, understanding how our environment affects our mental and physical health has become an essential consideration for healthy building consultants.

Neuro-aesthetics in wellness interior design

As someone deeply involved in wellness real estate and healthy interior design, this mini guide will delve into the key principles of this relatively new design concept and provide a solid foundation for incorporating this cutting-edge approach into design practices.

We'll also explore the scientific evidence supporting the profound impact this concept can have on holistic wellness of occupants in a building.

The Key Principles of Neuro-Aesthetics

We see aesthetics are not merely a matter of personal preference but are deeply connected to our biology and psychology. To harness this concept's true potential in interior design, we need to leverage each of its key principles:

1. Harmony and Balance

Harmony and balance in design are fundamental principles in neuro-aesthetics. Our brains are wired to seek order and symmetry.

Spaces that achieve this harmony can have a calming effect, reducing stress and promoting a sense of well-being.

As an expert in wellness design and interior design, we can use this principle to create environments that resonate with tranquility and balance.

2. Biophilic Design

Biophilic design recognizes and indeed embraces our innate connection with nature based on our evolutionary history.

Integrating natural elements into interior spaces, such as indoor plants, natural light, and water features, can improve cognitive function, creativity, and overall happiness.

This approach aligns perfectly with our focus on sustainability and indoor air quality here at Biofilico as well as our commitment to the wellness real estate industry.

3. Color Psychology

Colors evoke emotional responses, making them a potent tool in our world of wellness interior design. Different colors can elicit various emotions and behaviors.

For instance, cool colors like blues and greens promote relaxation, while warm colors like reds and oranges stimulate energy and creativity.

By carefully selecting colors, and factoring in the impact of indoor artificial light from a wellness architecture perspective, you can shape the atmosphere and mood of a space.

4. Texture and Material Selection

The textures and materials used in interior design play in this design strategy.

Soft, tactile materials can induce feelings of comfort and security, while hard, reflective surfaces can create a sense of dynamism.

However the latter come with a warning as glare can be an issue as we are typically maximizing natural light wherever we can!

As experts in the field of wellness real estate, our expertise in choosing building materials and interior fit-out materials that contribute to a sense of holistic wellness indoors is we think of increasing importance.

Chelsea Botanica London

The Scientific Evidence for Neuro-Aesthetics

While these principles of may seem intuitive, their effectiveness is firmly grounded in scientific research.

Here, we explore some of the compelling evidence that underscores the importance of neuro-aesthetics in interior design:

1. The Impact of Visual Complexity

Studies have shown that spaces with a moderate level of visual complexity, characterized by a balance between order and variety, are perceived as more aesthetically pleasing.

Such spaces engage the brain without overwhelming it, leading to increased comfort and positive emotional responses.

This principle can guide your design choices to create environments that resonate with your clients' well-being goals. Think of fractal patterns in interior and outdoor environments, inspired by the nature for example.

2. Stress Reduction through Nature

Research consistently demonstrates the stress-reducing effects of exposure to nature.

Incorporating biophilic elements into interior design, such as natural materials and views of greenery, has been linked to lower stress levels, improved cognitive function, and enhanced mood.

3. Color and Cognitive Performance

The influence of color on cognitive performance has been well-documented.

For example, the color green has been associated with improved focus and concentration, making it an excellent choice for office spaces. Similarly, warm colors like red and yellow can enhance creativity and energy levels.

These findings highlight the practical application of 'color psychology' in designing spaces that support the goals of our clients in the residential and office sectors.

4. Sensory Design and Well-Being

The concept of sensory design considers how our senses, such as touch, sight, and smell, interact with the environment.

By creating multi-sensory experiences in interior spaces, we can amplify the positive impact of occupants spending time in them, even just for 30 minutes during a work day for example.

For instance, incorporating pleasant scents and tactile textures can enhance the overall well-being of occupants, aligning perfectly with our wellness-oriented approach at Biofilico.

The Wardian residences, London

Biophilic Interior Design in the Art and Science of Neuro-Aesthetics

In the world of interior design, there exists a captivating synergy between art and science.

It's a delicate dance where aesthetics and functionality converge to create spaces that not only please the eye but also nurture the mind and body.

At the heart of this harmonious union lies the concept of biophilic design...

The Art of Connection

Biophilic design, at its core, is the art of connecting human spaces with the natural world.

It draws inspiration from the deep-seated human affinity for nature, recognizing that we are inherently linked to our environment.

This connection is not merely aesthetic; it's a profound, physiological response that has been ingrained in us over countless generations.

The artistry of biophilic design lies in its ability to seamlessly weave elements of nature into interior spaces. Think of lush greenery, natural colour palette, wabi-sabi imperfections, fractal patterns, or even the gentle warmth of sunlight streaming through large windows.

These elements aren't just decorative; they can be carefully curated to evoke feelings of tranquility, comfort, and vitality.

They transform sterile interiors into living, breathing environments that resonate with our biological and emotional needs.

The Science of Well-Being

While biophilic design is undoubtedly an art form, it is equally rooted in science.

Neuro-aesthetics, the scientific study of how aesthetics impact our brains, plays a crucial role in understanding the effectiveness of biophilic design.

Numerous studies have illuminated the cognitive and emotional benefits of integrating natural elements and lighting into interior spaces.

For instance, research has shown that exposure to nature, even in the form of indoor plants or nature-inspired artwork, can reduce stress, improve cognitive function, and boost creativity.

This scientific evidence underscores the profound impact of biophilic design on sustainability human health and our well-being.

The Symbiosis of Biophilic Design and Neuro-Aesthetics

The magic of biophilic design lies in its ability to bridge the gap between art and science seamlessly. It harnesses the beauty of the outside world to create interiors that not only please the eye but also soothe the soul and stimulate the mind.

It is the perfect embodiment of how aesthetics are not just a matter of personal preference but are deeply connected to our biology and psychology.

Sensory Design for mental and physical health of builing occupants

In the pursuit of creating interior spaces that profoundly impact mind-body wellness, sensory design emerges as a powerful tool.

This dynamic approach recognizes that our senses - sight, touch, sound, smell, and taste - play a pivotal role in shaping our experience within a space.

By harnessing the potential of sensory design, we as interior designers can enhance the neuro-aesthetic qualities of interiors and promote holistic well-being for occupants.

Sensory design goes beyond aesthetics; it strives to engage all the senses to create a multi-dimensional experience. F

or instance, the texture of materials can evoke feelings of comfort and security, while the gentle sound of flowing water can induce relaxation. Incorporating pleasant scents, such as the aroma of fresh flowers or calming essential oils, can further enhance the ambiance.

When integrated thoughtfully, sensory design can contribute to stress reduction, improved focus, and an overall sense of tranquility.

Incorporating sensory design into your interior projects, whether in residential real estate, hospitality, or office spaces, can elevate the well-being of occupants.

By attending to the sensory aspects of a space, you create environments that not only look beautiful but also promote health and wellbeing, fostering a sense of harmony and balance.

Conclusion: using neuro-aesthetics for wellness focused interior design

Neuro-aesthetics in interior design is not merely a trend; it is a powerful approach rooted in science and well-being principles.

As a professional in wellness real estate and interior design, we have the unique opportunity to leverage these principles to create spaces that go beyond aesthetics.

By embracing harmony, biophilic elements, color psychology, and sensory design, you can positively impact the mental and physical health of your clients, whether they are residential real estate developers, hoteliers, or office tenants.

In doing so, you not only enhance the value of your designs but also contribute to the well-being of those who inhabit them.

Further Reading:

Evidence based design & Salutogenesis

Key concepts in wellness real estate

The secrets of a healthy building

Biophilic design in sustainable buildings

Designing restorative spaces and ‘zen rooms’

Casa Biofilico

We recently completed our first biophilic home interiors project, now known as Casa Biofilico.

A biophilic arrival

The entrance hall features a South African landscape photograph with a row of handsome cows warmly greeting each new house guest, a Danish side table from the 1960s and an Artemide table lamp next to a rotating collection of pot plants that help fill what would otherwise be a ‘dark’ corner.

Nature-inspired living area

A living room filled with natural light plays host to a corner filled with air-purifying plants such as Sansevierias and ‘ZZ’ plants, offset by a bespoke piece of floral wall art and a series of botanical leaf paintings above a vintage Danish sideboard in teak wood.

More vintage furniture in the shape of four Danish, H.W. Klein dining chairs with teak frames and natural fibre seats that pick up on the colour palette of the ceramic tile flooring beneath, as well as a classic leather armchair. Wellness lighting systems are set to an automatic timer to recreate sunlight each morning and then fade out slowly after sunset in order not to disrupt the body clock.

Biophilic dining area

A teak dining table plays host to organic linen table mats and napkins by Libeco from Belgium, ceramic plates with a rough wabi-sabi finish by Muubs, crystal water tumblers by Royal Doulton and an Alvar Aalto glass vase from Iitala.

Green bedroom

The master bedroom has an eco-rubber flake mattress topper, a natural wool all-season duvet and two different eco-rubber flake pillows all by CocoMat, the natural bedding experts. A commissioned botanical drawing above the bed by artist Anna Farba sits opposite a calming seascape by photographer Tim Hall while a bedside aromatherapy corner has a eucalyptus bouquet as well as various sleep-enhancing essential oils ready for the diffuser.

Zen bathroom

The main bathroom has a large tub used for magnesium salt baths for relieving sore muscles, natural soap products, another ‘Biophilia’ photo print by Christopher Marley, a Monstera leaf display, smart-scale for checking heart rate and body mass each morning, as well as candles and natural room scents to create a haven of organic health and wellbeing.

Eco-friendly kitchen

An all-white kitchen is kitted out with a curated coffee & tea set-up featuring ceramic Japanese mugs, a professional burr grinder, copper V60 filter cone, coffee scale and slow-pouring kettle.

All-natural cleaning brushes in various shapes and sizes are accompanied by eco-friendly cleaning liquids in a refillable aluminium bottle and, why not, a young Monstera plant for a touch of green. Finally, a print of a photographic artwork by Christopher Marley’s ‘Biophilia’ series hangs on the wall next to a mini-forest of head-high dracaenas.

A Healthy Home Office

A second bedroom has a HumanScale Quickstand Eco standing desk combined with a mobility ball. The aim here is to promote less sitting and more movement while working. Positioned directly next to the windows for exposure to natural light, the room also has a Dyson air purifier and a Sonos sound system to create a multi-sensory space designed for productivity and creativity.

this is an example of ergonomic office furniture designed for wellbeing, for more on this subject, see our blog post here

If you would like our help designing your home along similar healthy, biophilic and earth-friendly lines, simply email us via the icon below.