The Basics of Biophilic Design: How Nature-Inspired Spaces Boost Health and Wellbeing

The Basics of Biophilic Design and How It Enhances Wellbeing

Spaces That Make Us Feel Better: The Benefits of Biophilic Design

Have you ever walked into a room and immediately felt calmer? Your mood lifts, breathing feels easier, and your energy levels rise. Sure, it could be your morning cup of coffee (or a friendly coworker) but it’s just as likely the room contained one or more elements of biophilic design.

According to the Living Future Institute of Australia, biophilic design is “the practice of connecting people and the natural world of which people are part – within our built environments and communities.” In other words, it’s about weaving natural principles into architecture to enhance wellbeing, boost productivity, and create healthier spaces.

So what exactly are the basics of biophilic design, and how can they make us all a little healthier and happier?

What is Biophilic Design?

The term biophilia was popularized by Edward O. Wilson in his 1984 book Biophilia. His hypothesis points to humanity’s inherent need to connect with nature and other forms of life—a connection rooted in our dependence on the natural world for survival and satisfaction.

When we’re grounded in nature, we feel more balanced. Yet many of us spend most of our lives inside “man-made” structures that lack these natural connections. We all know how draining it can feel to step into a windowless room, lit by harsh fluorescent lights, stripped of warmth. Think of warehouses, shopping centers, or even hospitals and offices—uninspiring at best, and exhausting at worst.

Biophilic design offers a course correction. Rather than relying on artificial greenery or décor alone, it intentionally incorporates natural light, fresh air, organic textures, views, and even water into the built environment—transforming how we feel in the spaces we inhabit.

The 5 Key Elements of Biophilic Design

1 Natural Light

Large windows and skylights bring in daylight, helping to regulate our circadian rhythm. This keeps us more awake during the day, helps us avoid the dreaded 3 p.m. slump, and improves sleep quality at night. Plus, maximizing daylight means we can cut back on artificial lighting and save energy. Indoor Plants

From a simple potted plant to a full living green wall, indoor greenery blurs the line between interior and exterior. Plants naturally filter the air, increase oxygen production, and studies show they make us happier, healthier, and more alert.3. Natural Materials & Textures

Using wood, stone, and organic patterns in finishes and furnishings reintroduces tactile and visual connections to the outdoors. Even small changes—like swapping bold paint colors for earth tones or adding natural flooring—can foster a sense of warmth and grounding.. Views & Connection t

Strategically placed windows, courtyards, and patios provide framed views of landscapes that calm the mind. Good design ensures as many occupants as possible have access to these views, which often informs the shape and orientation of a building.5. Airflow & Water Features

Fresh air circulation is one of the simplest ways to improve indoor air quality and occupant mood. Even something as small as opening a window can boost productivity and reduce energy consumption. When climate or codes prevent it, mechanical systems can be designed to increase fresh air exchange.

While you might not be able to bring a babbling brook indoors, water features (whether a fountain outside a window or a small indoor element) add calming sound and movement. Paired with plants, they can even support hydroponics, creating a dynamic natural system indoors

How Biophilic Design Enhances Wellbeing

Biophilic design has benefits that touch nearly every aspect of human health and experience:

Mental Health & Stress Reduction
Natural light, greenery, and views reduce anxiety, lower stress, and improve mood. Even short exposure to sunlight or natural views can boost mental wellbeing almost instantly.
Productivity & Creativity
In workplaces, nature-inspired design supports focus and innovation. Studies show biophilic offices increase productivity, reduce distractions, and encourage more creative problem-solving.
Physical Health
Improved air quality, circadian rhythm regulation, and lower blood pressure are just a few physical benefits. Better sleep, healthier immune responses, and reduced toxins in the air all contribute to long-term wellness.
Social & Community Wellbeing
Inviting, nature-inspired spaces foster connection. When environments feel warm and restorative, people are more likely to gather, engage, and build stronger relationships.

Biophilic Design in Everyday Spaces

Biophilic design isn’t just for large architectural projects. It can be applied at home or in the workplace with simple choices.

For Your Home:

Keep window treatments minimal, or open them daily to maximize natural light.
Choose warm, soft lighting that supports circadian health.
Add plants—start with hardy varieties like snake plants if you’re a beginner.
Use finishes that mimic natural textures, such as wood, stone, or neutral-toned textiles.
If building new, collaborate with your architect early to prioritize views and orientation.

For Your Workplace:

Value daylight—don’t cut window area during design or renovations.
Add air-cleaning plants throughout the office.
Install lighting that allows users to control intensity and tone.
Avoid sterile finishes (like “millennial gray”) and instead use organic tones and materials to achieve a modern but biophilic aesthetic.

Biophilic Design is the Future of Architecture

Who wouldn’t want to feel happier, healthier, and more productive in their everyday spaces? Demand is growing for designs that not only reduce environmental impact but actively improve occupant wellbeing.

Green building frameworks like LEED and WELL are incorporating biophilic strategies into their certification systems—making them a cornerstone of sustainable, human-centered design. For us at Greer Architects, biophilic design isn’t a trend; it’s a guiding principle in creating spaces that truly improve lives.

Biophilic design is more than just an architectural style—it’s a science-backed approach to living and working better. From boosting mental health to supporting physical wellness, its benefits are both immediate and long-lasting.

If you’d like to explore how to integrate biophilic design principles into your next project, connect with Greer Architects through our contact page or social media. We’d love to help you envision a space that inspires wellbeing for you and those around you.

Get inspired: Explore our recent projects or follow along with what’s sparking our creativity on Pinterest.