Last Updated on March 9, 2025 by Tanya Janse van Rensburg
Biophilic interior design is an increasingly popular subject among designers who are looking for innovative ways to bring the natural world inside.
Implementing biophilic interior design into your home is a great way to enhance your space with beauty, fresh air, and a healthier feel.
In this article, we'll explore five ways to bring nature into your home and the advantages of biophilia.
*Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission.
You’ve probably heard of the term “biophilic interior design.”
But what is it, exactly? And what are the advantages of incorporating it into your home décor?
Biophilic interior design was coined in the early 1990s by criminologist and environmental psychologist Stephen R. Kellert to describe humans' innate affinity for nature and natural systems.
The theory posits that there are evolutionary reasons why we feel more relaxed and comfortable in settings that feature plant life.
After all, for most of human history, we have lived close to nature, and plants have been important to our survival.
The goal of biophilic design is to create spaces that connect people with nature and, in turn, improve their well-being.
Biophilic design is all about connecting people with nature. It doesn’t have to be a vast, complicated undertaking—even small changes can significantly impact it.
One of the key benefits of biophilic design is that it can help boost our mood and mental wellbeing.
Not only do plants make a space more visually appealing, but they can also improve air quality and promote relaxation.
Studies have shown that being around plants can lower stress and anxiety and increase productivity.
One way to bring nature into your home is by incorporating plants into your decor. Plants can purify the air, improve acoustics, and create a visual connection to the outdoors.
If you're looking for unique and interesting ways to spruce up your home décor, why not consider using plants as living art?
A living wall or moss art can add a touch of nature to any room, and an indoor vertical garden is a great way to bring the outdoors in.
There are many different ways to incorporate plants into your décor, so whether you're a green thumb or not, there's sure to be a perfect project for you.
The best part is that these living works of art are easy to care for and will continue to grow and change over time, so your home will always look fresh and new.
Instead of hanging traditional art on your walls, opt for botanical prints that add a layer of nature to the space.
A search on Etsy will give you a ton of inspiration.
For a more curated selection, try your local independent bookstore to check out art books related to macro photography (extreme close-up photography of small objects).
Also, get creative with wallpapers and fabrics incorporating natural elements like leaves, flowers, or fruits and vegetables.
If you're looking for a low-maintenance way to add a touch of nature to your home, consider using faux succulents.
These artificial plants are becoming increasingly popular as more people embrace the idea of decorating with plants that require little to no care.
There are many benefits to using faux succulents over live plants. For one, they're much easier to care for—simply wipe them down with a damp cloth every now and then, and they'll look good as new.
They're also more durable and less likely to die if you forget to water them (which can happen often with busy lifestyles).
Another advantage of faux succulents is that they come in various shapes, sizes, and colors. This allows you to be more creative with your Biophilic interior design, using them to create eye-catching displays.
If you're interested in adding faux succulents to your home, there are many places to find them.
Home decor stores, online retailers, and even some supermarkets sell them. Just make sure to do your research to find the best quality product for your needs.
When selecting plants for your home, consider both function and aesthetics. Choose plants that are visually appealing and well-suited to your space.
Remember that plants require care and attention, so be sure to choose species that are easy to care for.
Not only will they add a pop of color and life to your room, but they can also help you feel calmer and more content.
Once you see how much better you feel with some greenery in your home, you may be inspired to make other changes that will further improve your health and well-being.
- Stephen R. Kellert
So what are you waiting for? Get inspired and start creating your living art today!
