Creating Wellness at Home: The Intersection of Biophilic Design and Healthy Living

As we continue to prioritize our health and well-being, our homes have taken on an even greater significance. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought a heightened awareness of the importance of creating healthy living spaces, and as a result, many Americans are reevaluating what they value most in their homes. According to a recent survey by John Burns Research & Consulting, mental well-being, healthy diet, and physical fitness are the top three non-financial health and wellness factors for households earning $50,000 or more. Furthermore, 95% of respondents believe that their home impacts their health, and 73% are considering health when choosing their next home.

One design approach that aligns with these wellness priorities is biophilic design, which seeks to connect humans with nature in the built environment. Biophilic design incorporates natural elements, materials, and patterns into the design of our homes, promoting a sense of well-being and improving our physical and mental health. Let's explore how biophilic design can intersect with healthy living to create wellness at home.

Mental Well-Being: Creating Sanctuary Spaces

Mental well-being was identified as the top wellness priority in the survey, and biophilic design can play a significant role in creating sanctuary spaces at home where residents can relax, unwind, and practice self-care. For example, incorporating natural elements such as plants, water features, and natural light can have a calming effect on our minds and reduce stress. Designing spa-like bathrooms with ambient lighting, aromatherapy, chromotherapy, and soaker tubs can create a serene and rejuvenating atmosphere for self-care rituals like meditation and relaxation.

In addition, dedicated areas for meditation, yoga, or quiet reflection can be integrated into the home design, providing residents with a peaceful retreat. Access to nature views, either through large windows or outdoor spaces, can also improve mental well-being by fostering a connection with the natural world. Biophilic design principles, such as the use of natural materials like wood and stone, can further enhance the sense of tranquility and well-being in our homes.

Healthy Diet: Well-Equipped Kitchens

A healthy diet was also identified as a top wellness factor in the survey, and our kitchens play a crucial role in supporting healthy eating habits. Biophilic design can be incorporated into kitchen spaces through the use of natural materials, such as wood countertops or stone backsplashes, which not only provide a connection to nature but also create a hygienic and easy-to-clean environment. Upgraded appliances, such as steam ovens, air fryers, and sous vide cookers, can support healthy cooking techniques and make it easier to prepare nutritious meals at home.

In addition, incorporating ample natural light and views of nature in the kitchen can create a pleasant and inviting atmosphere that encourages healthy eating behaviors. Access to outdoor spaces, such as a kitchen garden or a balcony with herbs and vegetables, can also inspire residents to incorporate fresh, homegrown produce into their diet. By combining biophilic design principles with a well-equipped kitchen, we can create a space that promotes healthy eating habits and supports our overall wellness.

Physical Fitness: Active and Outdoor Spaces

Physical fitness is another important wellness factor identified in the survey, and biophilic design can help create spaces that promote physical activity and outdoor living. Incorporating elements like home gyms, exercise studios, or outdoor fitness areas can encourage regular physical activity and support an active lifestyle. Biophilic design can also promote outdoor living by incorporating features such as large windows that provide views of nature, outdoor patios or decks, and landscaping that encourages outdoor activities like walking or gardening.

Moreover, natural elements such as plants and water features can create a refreshing and revitalizing environment that encourages outdoor activities and promotes physical well-being. Natural materials like wood or cork can be used for flooring or gym equipment, creating a connection with nature while also being functional for exercise routines.

Additionally, biophilic design can be used to create outdoor spaces that promote relaxation and leisure, such as outdoor seating areas, fire pits, or natural play areas for children. These spaces can encourage residents to spend more time outdoors, engaging in physical activities like gardening, playing, or simply enjoying the fresh air, which can contribute to improved physical fitness and overall well-being.

Trends in Biophilic Design

As biophilic design gains popularity, there are several emerging trends that can further enhance the integration of nature into our homes. Some of these trends include:

Green Walls and Vertical Gardens: Green walls or vertical gardens are becoming increasingly popular in biophilic design. These installations can be used both indoors and outdoors to create a lush and vibrant environment, while also improving air quality and providing a connection to nature.

Natural Lighting Solutions: Maximizing natural light in our homes is a key element of biophilic design. Incorporating large windows, skylights, and light wells can bring in abundant natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting and providing health benefits such as improved mood and circadian rhythm regulation.

Use of Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Materials: Biophilic design emphasizes the use of natural materials like wood, stone, and cork, which are not only aesthetically pleasing but also sustainable and eco-friendly. Using materials with low VOC emissions and recycled content can further enhance the wellness aspect of biophilic design by promoting a healthy indoor environment.

Integration of Smart Technology: Technology can be integrated into the biophilic design to enhance the well-being benefits of natural elements. For example, automated shading systems that adjust based on sunlight, smart irrigation systems for outdoor green spaces, or air purifiers with nature-inspired designs can all contribute to creating a healthier and more sustainable home environment.

Nature-Inspired Color Palettes: Colors play a significant role in biophilic design, and using nature-inspired color palettes can create a calming and harmonious atmosphere. Earthy tones, shades of green, and soft blues are commonly used in biophilic design to mimic the colors of nature and create a connection with the outdoors.

Conclusion

As we strive for greater wellness in our homes, biophilic design offers a promising approach that integrates nature into our living spaces. By incorporating natural elements, materials, and patterns, biophilic design can create spaces that promote mental well-being, support healthy eating habits, encourage physical fitness, and foster a connection with nature. Emerging trends in biophilic design, such as green walls, natural lighting solutions, sustainable materials, smart technology, and nature-inspired color palettes, further enhance the potential of biophilic design to create truly healthy and wellness-oriented homes.

With the increased awareness of the importance of our home environments on our overall health and well-being, incorporating biophilic design principles in our homes can be a beneficial and holistic approach to creating spaces that support our physical, mental, and emotional wellness. By prioritizing the connection with nature in our home design, we can create spaces that truly nourish our well-being and contribute to a healthier and happier lifestyle.

FREE DOWNLOAD

Do you want to create a space that speaks to your unique personality and significantly elevates your well-being? Download our checklist, which provides an overview of the 15 essential elements to consider when creating or decorating a home or office with biophilic design principles.

This checklist will provide you with the tools to transform any space into a restorative and nurturing environment, where you can experience improved health and happiness. It's a place where you can replenish your energy, recharge, relax, smile, and feel at ease. By incorporating biophilic design into your home or office, you can create a space that truly reflects your connection with nature and enhances your overall well-being.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to create a home or office that promotes wellness and supports your physical, mental, and emotional health. Download HERE our checklist now and embark on the journey of transforming your space into a biophilic haven where you can thrive!