Bringing the Outdoors In: A Guide to Biophilic Design
A home is often considered a sanctuary. We often find ourselves turning to nature when we find the need to recharge, relax and reconnect - a countryside getaway, a walk in the park, a dramatic 'Wild' themed hike to go 'find yourself' or more simply: a moment tending to your houseplants or a wander in your backgarden. To achieve this sense of calm in an increasingly chaotic world, interior inspiration palettes are moving towards a more natural way of living.
Biophilic design; a term you may have heard bandied about at some point recently, is essentially a design scheme inspired by the connection between people and nature. It's all about creating spaces that feel calm, welcoming and restorative through natural materials, soft textures and thoughtful styling that brings elements of nature into your home.
The good news is that embracing biophilic design can start at the design stage for a new home for sure, but can also be incorporated in an existing home and doesn’t require a complete renovation. Small changes made by swapping out or adding in certain pieces of furniture can make a big difference.
Read through our guide below to help you create your very own biophilic sanctuary at home:
Let there be light
Light is central to biophilic interiors. Studies show that humans struggle to maintain their natural sense of emotional equilibrium in artifical light, having historically evolved in natural light. Positioning furniture near windows can be a good way to maximise on natural light exposure.
Curtains and blinds are an important factor too. Click here for our bespoke service to find what works best in your home.
Mirrors can also be a great way to open up a room or reflect light to brighten a space. Explore our selection below. Their organic shapes or wooden/ natural stone feel frames create a beautifully natural look.
If you like the idea of using mirrors to integrate light into your space for a natural feel, but don't necessarily feel any of the ones above fit your tastes or interiors, have a look at our whole collection here.
Choose furniture inspired by natural elements
Nature has several aspects that calm and soothe. Wood furniture is the easiest way to bring out natural beauty in an interior scheme.
If you can, choose different organic shapes too - this will echo the unstructured quality seen so often in nature. It brings in the textures and earthy tones we naturally associate with the outdoors - which is exactly what biophilic design is all about.
Wood softens and soothes an interior, whilst also adding in a touch of refined elegance.
Try to use wood that is sustainably sourced - a double win for environmental awareness as well as your design scheme! A lot of our suppliers are careful to provide natural, unspoiled and ethically sourced wood. Look for these key words in descriptions on our website to make sure.
Place plants or nature themed artwork on or close too the wood toned surfaces for a boost of organic nature driven charm.
Achieve this look with ease by scrolling through our curated collection of furniture pieces below that suit both customers looking to make small changes in current homes or even bigger design changes for new homes.
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Furniture resembling other natural materials such as rattan and stone, can also be effective in creating a biophilic home atmosphere. The imperfect, earthy patterns and textures create a restorative look that appeals to what humans associate with being outside.
Both marble and travertine are naturally occuring stones. Artistically crafted furniture pieces that resemble these looks can go a long way towards creating a natural scheme for lower costs.
Rattan introduces lightness and airflow through its open weave, preventing spaces from feeling heavy, while stone-look pieces add stability and a timeless feel.
Nature-Inspired Finishing Touches
A strong connection between a home and the natural world can also be brought about by intentionally placed accessories. Decorative pieces, patterns and textures can be the cherry on top for the ultimate soothing and relaxing look. Choose practical and functional pieces like lights and storage baskets, along with decorative ones like plants and pictures.
If you think vivid natural patterns, textures or imagery may not go well with your current decor, add in neutral nature themed touches such as olive or brown rugs and vases, or perhaps small plants.
Here's our styling tips to help you choose:
- Layer natural textures
Combine woven rugs, linen cushions, ceramic accessories and rattan lighting to create warmth and depth inspired by nature. - Choose earthy, calming tones
Soft neutrals, sandy beiges, warm whites, olive greens and stone-inspired shades help create a grounded and restorative atmosphere. - Use soft, ambient lighting
Lamps with textured and patterned shades or natural materials help create a gentle, relaxed glow that enhances the calming feel of a biophilic space - Incorporate nature-inspired artwork
Botanical prints, landscape photography and abstract organic forms help strengthen the connection to the outdoors. - Style in groups of natural elements
Arrange accessories in small curated clusters using varying heights, textures and shapes to create a softer, more organic look. - Keep spaces uncluttered and intentional
Biophilic interiors work best when they feel calm and breathable, so focus on a few meaningful pieces rather than overcrowding surfaces. - Add greenery where possible
Real or faux plants paired with natural accessories help complete the look and bring freshness into the home.
Scroll through our selection below, we've got something for everyone's tastes!
- Layer natural textures
- 12th May 2026
