Jump to:Nature and the Earth have long been sources of inspiration in interior design. But with the rise of natural disasters, climate change effects, and a push by politicians to end renewable energy, ensuring our homes are aligned with our environment is crucial. Passive homes and carbon-neutral clean properties are great if youre looking to embark on a new build, but for a more accessible approach, try biophilic design. The design style, which is a nature-centric approach to interiors, goes far beyond a collection of houseplants or painting the whole place green. It can take many shapes, from landscaping ideas that use local plants and flowers to oversized windows that let in the most natural light possible. It also includes green roofs and live plant walls. Interior designer (and former Olympian!) Erica McLain explains, Biophilic design is the art and science of reconnecting humans with the natural world within built environments. Rooted in our innate biophiliathe deep evolutionary bond between humans and natureit seeks to restore balance, calm, and vitality in our indoor spaces by integrating the principles and patterns of the natural world.Odds are, youre already incorporating elements of this style into your space. To learn more about biophilic design, its primary components, and how to bring the philosophy home, read on for our in-depth guide.Related StoriesWhat Is Biophilic Design?josefkubes//Getty ImagesAn exterior living wall using rainwater runoff to sustain plants.Biophilic design describes interiors and architecture planned with a nature-first mentality. Whether exemplified through ample windows and natural light, eco-friendly materials, or live walls and greenery, biophilic design encourages people to commune with nature while still indoors.While plants are a wonderful and visible aspect of biophilic design, they are only one piece of a much larger puzzle, McLain says. Biophilic design goes deeper, incorporating fractal patterns, which mimic the organized complexity found in nature, or using natural light to align with our circadian rhythms. Even materials play a roletextures like raw wood, linen, or stone provide a tactile connection to the earth. In architecture, the biophilic design style is often seen in green roofs, plant walls, and heavy landscaping, even in urban areas. Inside, however, the emphasis is placed on bringing as much nature in as possible to create harmony between the industrial setting and the world outside. History of Biophilic DesignBiophilic design, when compared with Art Deco or Brutalism, is a relatively new concept. While other architectural styles were born out of industrial evolution and creativity, biophilic design has largely emerged out of necessity. Its a movement by architects and designers to encourage a reconnection with nature in an increasingly digital age. According to research from the University of Minnesota, the dominant approach to modern building and landscape design largely treats nature as either an obstacle to overcome or a trivial and irrelevant consideration. The result has been an increasing disconnect between people and nature in the built environment reflected in inadequate contact with natural light, ventilation, materials, vegetation, views, natural shapes and forms, and in general beneficial contact with the natural world.Paulo Pereira//Getty ImagesA green roof.5 Key Elements of Biophilic Design Biophilic design can be direct (using elements like trees, grass, and water) or indirect (natural colors, images of nature, organic shapes, and materials). Biophilic design isn't limited to sightit engages all five senses to create a holistic, immersive experience, explains McLain. Textures like smooth wood, soft linens, or rugged stone invite touch, while calming water features or the rustling of leaves mimic natural sounds. The subtle scents of essential oils, fresh flowers, or even a herb garden bring olfactory richness to the space. This style also incorporates the experience of space and place, examples of which are urban courtyards, natural installations in office buildings, and miniature parks in major cities where direct nature access is slim. Shade DeggesAccess to NatureWhether through large windows, balconies, porches, or yard space, biophilic design prioritizes access to nature. In largely urban areas or high rises, this can take the form of increased natural light, green spaces on a roof or common terraces, or interior landscaping. McLain recommends incorporating light from every direction if possible. Strategically place windows, skylights, and mirrors to amplify sunlight and distribute it evenly across the space, she says. Pair this with the thoughtful incorporation of airflowopen windows, ceiling fans, or vented partitions can mimic the subtle, refreshing movement of outdoor breezes. This interplay of light and air creates a space that feels alive, fostering vitality and a sense of well-being.Per Magnus Persson//Getty ImagesAmple GreeneryRewilding lawns, using local plants in landscaping, and cultivating houseplants (even in office buildings) are ways to incorporate biophilic design without undertaking a renovation or structural change.Photo: Roger Davies/OTTO Designer: Jamie BushFocus on Health and Well-BeingBiophilic design prioritizes human health and wellness by providing clean air, calming soundscapes, and low-stress environments. An example of this would be a fitness center with large windows and plants incorporated into the design. The Natural Resource Defense Council also notes that including natural surroundings in the workplace has been proven to increase creativity and productivity.John StafferSoothing Colors and SightsThe color palette of biophilic design comprises hues found in nature. Brown, green, and blue are the three most common, but youll also find calming yellows and neutral colors throughout.Patterns that mimic motifs in nature can also help calm the space. This can include fractal patterns found in textiles, the symmetry of natural shapes like leaves or shells, or biomorphic curves in furnishings that mimic the human bodys natural forms, says McLain. These patterns trigger a subconscious sense of familiarity and ease while sparking curiosity. For example, a rug with a fractal design or a sculptural light fixture inspired by tree branches creates a layered, dynamic aesthetic that feels effortlessly soothing yet intriguing.ALI HARPERNatural MaterialsBiophilic design doesnt have to mean living in a jungle. You can incorporate this style by layering in natural textures and materials. This goes beyond merely adding greenery; its about creating an immersive environment that reflects and celebrates the natural world, says McLain. Incorporate organic materials like reclaimed wood, stone, and woven fibers to establish a tactile connection. Think jute rugs, wool blankets, and rattanall accessible, tangible ways to reconnect with the natural world.Working on a design project? Let us help!Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.Expert consulted:Erica McLainInterior DesignerErica McLain is an interior designer and former US Olympian. Her design journey began with my exposure to my grandmother's mixed-medium art, my father's construction skills, and my mothers love of nature. These first influences, in addition to the experiences in over 38 countries as a professional athlete, including representing the United States in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, have expanded her worldview and helped me empathize with diverse lifestyles. She is the founder and principal of McLain by Design Interiors. Ericas academic achievementsa BA in Communication and a Minor in Studio Art from Stanford University, an MBA from UC Berkeley focused on Product Development and Brand Strategy, and ongoing studies in Architecture and Interior Design at UCLAform the foundation of her holistic approach. Prior to design, McLain worked at both Facebook and Google in user experience (UX) design as a product manager, learning about and designing solutions for the movement patterns and needs of a variety of people around the globe. This background in software design is now the lens through which she views design, creating interiors that are tailored to your unique preferences.