biophilic design

Biophilia is at the heart of StudioVera’s design ethos.

 

 

Biophilia refers to humanity’s innate attraction to and connection with nature and living beings.

 

It helps explain why crackling fires and crashing waves captivate us; why a garden view can enhance our creativity; and why animal companionship and strolling through a park have restorative, healing effects.

How much do we love to be outside on a fresh, bright day, looking at the clear blue sky, gentle breeze on our skin, fresh air in our lungs?! Our whole body seems rejuvenated and reborn and our minds and emotions feel reset.

 

Design that reconnects us with nature is essential for providing our clients opportunities to live and work in healthy places and spaces with less stress and greater overall health and well-being.

 
 

benefits of biophilic design

 

We believe that living in harmony with nature and natural rhythms in our homes can help keep us happy and healthy.

 

Now more than ever we need our home environments to be supportive and regenerative. That’s why we at StudioVera view biophilia as an essential component of the interiors we design.

Among the potential benefits of biophilic design are…

  • Reduced cortisol levels (reduce stress)

  • Elevated white blood cell count (Crucial to the immune system)

  • Boosted focus and creativity, including problem-solving and cognitive function

  • Calming of the mind, reduced anxiety

  • Improved short term memory

  • Encouragement for children and adults to develop healthy lifestyle habits

  • Increased longevity

 
 

Biophilic Design + Science

 

Social scientist Eric Fromme first coined the term ‘biophilia’ (from ‘bio’ meaning ‘life’ and ‘philia’ meaning ‘love’) in 1964.

While the majority of scientific research on biophilic design to date has centered around commercial settings such as offices, gyms, spas, hotels, restaurants, hospitals, etc., the conclusions drawn are applicable to residential spaces, as well.

Among other positive effects, studies show significantly increased percentages of productivity, creativity, and attendance (fewer sick days) in environments designed using biophilic principles.

Statistics show humans spend roughly 90% of our time indoors. The World Health Organization has concluded, “Health is created and lived by people within the settings of their everyday life; where they learn, work, play and love.”

 
 
 

svd + Biophilic design

At StudioVera, biophilia is foundational to our work.

So much more than just bringing a few living plants into our designs, we employ the three core principles of biophilic design in every project as we consider…

 
 

01

NATURE IN SPACE

Bringing nature into the home, what we can see, touch, smell and hear that reminds us of nature

 

02

Nature analogues

Taking inspiration from nature’s forms, colors, patterns, textures

 

03

Nature of the space

Taking inspiration from spatial qualities of natural environment such as long sightlines

 

  • colour, pattern and texture

    We use colors from nature that work in harmony together and with the changing light of day and evening; include subtle patterns found in nature where appropriate; and bring in as many organic textures as possible.

  • light

    We make the most of natural light and layer artificial light.

  • sound

    We select quiet appliances and other products; we work to reduce or mask incoming noise.

  • water

    We provide recommendations for filtration to ensure good quality drinking water and install water features when possible.

  • air

    We provide recommendations for filtration when needed and make the most of access to fresh air with windows and outdoor spaces.

  • warmth

    We diminish drafts, select smart heating systems, and create cozy fireplaces.

  • sleep

    We create bedroom retreats with soothing colors, patterns, and materials, addressing every aspect of the bedroom to ensure the best sleep environment.

  • plants

    We incorporate living plants as a design element.

  • views

    We maximize existing views and sightlines and create additional views of nature whenever possible.

  • activities

    We create welcoming, functional, and adaptable spaces that support daily activities, including indoor and outdoor exercise.

By understanding the positive effects that living with nature and natural materials can bring, we are able to make better choices about how we design and decorate our clients’ homes.

 

Biophilia is in the same healthy-living vein as sustainability. One key difference is that the nature of biophilic design itself results in sustainable spaces that protect the natural environment. Even better, the biophilic approach does so without compromising the design’s beauty, comfort, and functionality.

Biophilic design can reduce stress, enhance creativity and clarity of thought, improve our well-being, and expedite healing.

Although biophilia has seen an increase in popularity of late, it is not a trend. It is a working philosophy that can be applied to any style of interiors.

INTERESTED IN WORKING WITH STUDIOVERA?