Biophilia: Bringing The Outside In
Favouring natural charm and simplicity over the more material things that we have become so accustomed to in our everyday lives, the Biophilia trend is all about marrying the outside world with your existing home decor. Originally developed back in the 80s, Biophilia has made a HUGE comeback this year and can now be seen making its way into homes all across the world. Whether you’re a lover of plants or someone who just enjoys the textures of our natural landscape, this trend is definitely for you!
You know what they say – if you can’t beat them, be them! Which is why we’re giving up on nice weather (until we get to summer, of course) and bringing the outside into our homes instead. Biophilia isn’t about turning your home into a glorified jungle, it’s about appreciating the world around us and getting the same joy that you get outside in your garden within the comfort of your indoor setting. Still not sure what we’re going on about? Don’t worry! We’ve created this style guide to help you add the perfect touch of Biophilia to your space, whether you’re wanting to go all out or just want a touch of the outdoors to bring a little sunshine into your home.
Materials such as natural wood
and leather are the perfect solution for creating a more Biophilic setting. Not
only do they add an additional layer of texture to your space, they also add a
sense of natural charm that isn’t easily achieved through other man-made
materials. From comforting leather chairs to eco-friendly reclaimed wood
cabinets, we’ve got some lovely ideas for you. Just look at these beautiful
spaces!
Get the look:
From Left to Right (Clockwise): Rattan Table & Chair Set; Vintage Reclaimed Wood Cabinet; Mango Wood & Leather Armchair; Black Rattan Chair; Round Leather Pouffe; Log Design Side Table
If natural materials aren’t really your thing, don’t worry! Adding a touch of nature to your home through flora and fauna is also a great way to jump on the Biophilia trend. We’re talking animal and plant inspired sculptures, funky accessories, and earthy colour palettes. A pop of green combined with brown and beige tones is also a great way to add some subtle nature-inspired vibes to your spaces. Here’s how we’d do it.
Featured Products (From Left to Right Clockwise): Copper & Brass Watering Can; Antelope Wall Sculpture; Silver Cactus Mirror
Everyone knows that it’s the
extra bits that really make a space. With the ever-growing plant hype, many outdoor-inspired
accessories are more affordable and readily available than ever before. From
the simple addition of a stylish plant pot to a more abstract wooden clock,
getting that real outdoorsy feel within your home is as simple as relaxing by
the pool on a warm summer’s day! These spaces definitely know what’s up.
Get the look:
From Left to Right (Clockwise): Blue Striped Ceramic Planter; Geometric Wood & Steel Candle Lantern, Wood & Metal Wall Clock; Metal Flower Pot Ornament; Wall-Mounted Flower Holder; Black Palm Leaf Wall Art
Don’t be afraid of layering textures! Rattan and wicker, raw wood, leaves, and clay, among others, all offer a wonderful way to bring nature into your home. Plus, they add an unrivalled sense of depth to any interior. We experience spaces through our eyes as much as we experience them through touch which is why texture is such a pivotal part of any well-designed setting. Here is some inspo to help you add different textures to your home.
Featured Products (From Left to Right Clockwise): Blue Tit Bird Wall Art; Set of Three Wicker Log Baskets; Reclaimed Wooden Crate Display Shelving Unit
If you’ve got this far and you’re still not feeling convinced that this trend is for you, hear us out! Not only do Biophilic spaces bring a sense of serenity to your home, they also come with countless benefits to your health and general wellbeing. Here are some of our favourites:
1.) Plants, the real ones, are ideal for homes located in more urban parts of the world. Through their natural photosynthesis process (GCSE biology, anyone?), plants are perfect for improving your air quality and are actually proven to reduce stress levels and increase your good mood. Who wouldn’t want that!?
2.) Scientific studies have literally proven that sculptures and artwork depicting nature reduces levels of anxiety. So, that piece of wall art that you’ve been eyeing up for the past few weeks will not only add style to your space but will also help you to lead a more chilled out lifestyle. Go on, treat yourself!
3.) In modern life, many of us don’t have the luxury of spending time outside anymore with scientific studies stating that almost 90% of our time in the UK is actually spent indoors - that’s 22 hours a day! Natural materials such as wood and foliage allow you to enjoy the benefits of the great outdoors without having to venture out into the dreary British weather.
That being said, we hope that you’ve been inspired to bring a little bit of the outdoors into your interior space. Here’s to a 2020 filled with plants, natural materials and a whole heap of improved health and wellbeing.
Thumbnail Image: @houseon77th on Instagram.