Many of us spend around 90% of our time indoors, yet as humans we have an inherent connection to the natural world. Modern life has gradually separated us from that connection.
Biophilic design is about bringing nature back into the spaces where people live, work and rest. It goes far beyond simply adding plants. Our surroundings can influence stress, mood, sleep, focus and overall wellbeing, while natural light, materials and views of nature can help spaces feel calmer and more restorative.
For interior designer Suze Patel, founder of Suze Patel Interiors, this connection sits at the heart of her approach. A home should not only look beautiful but should also support how those living there feel.
Work with light throughout the day
Natural light plays an important role in wellbeing. Our bodies respond to changing levels of light, helping to regulate our circadian rhythm, the internal body clock that influences sleep, energy and alertness.
Make the most of daylight by keeping windows clear, positioning furniture in brighter areas and using mirrors to reflect light.
Artificial lighting matters too. Layering ambient, task and accent lighting helps a room adapt throughout the day. Brighter lighting can support concentration, while lower level, warmer light in the evening creates a softer atmosphere and helps the body prepare for rest.
Give the eyes somewhere natural to rest
A tree outside a window, garden planting or even a glimpse of the sky can provide a valuable visual connection to nature. Views of nature have been linked with reduced stress and improved recovery, so create places where the eyes can rest on something natural.
A chair, desk or reading spot might face a window or garden rather than a screen. Where a natural view is not available, nature inspired artwork or organic forms, such as sculptures or accessories made from natural materials, can introduce that connection.
Bring in natural materials, texture and form
Nature is tactile, varied and imperfect, and bringing those qualities indoors can make a room feel warmer and more grounded.
Layering materials such as timber, wool, linen, stone, clay and rattan adds depth and character. This might mean combining timber grain with woven fabric, stone with soft linen, or a wool rug underfoot.
Form matters too. Curves and irregular shapes can soften a scheme and echo forms found in nature. A round coffee table, curved armchair or organically shaped mirror can all help a space feel more relaxed.
Look to nature for colour and pattern
Nature connected design does not have to mean beige, green and houseplants. The natural world offers an enormous palette, from earthy terracottas and ocean blues to blossom pinks, warm corals and rich jewel tones such as emerald, ruby and sapphire.
Rather than following rigid rules around colour psychology, Suze recommends considering how you want a room to feel. Softer tones can create a restful atmosphere, while deeper shades can bring warmth, energy and personality.
Pattern can work in the same way, from bold botanicals to delicate organic motifs. Fractal patterns (the repeating shapes seen in leaves, branches and shells) offer a subtler way to reference nature.
Design around how the room needs to feel and function
Wellbeing is not only about appearance. A room also needs to work for the people using it.
Suze encourages homeowners to think about what they need from a space and how they want to feel there. A bedroom may need to feel restful, while a home office might need to encourage focus and energy.
Wellbeing is also multisensory. Plants can strengthen our connection with nature, while fresh air, natural scents and good ventilation can all contribute to a healthier, more comfortable home.
Ultimately, creating a healthier home is about recognising that interiors can influence both mental and physical wellbeing. Thoughtful design can support rest, focus and everyday comfort, creating spaces that feel calmer, healthier and more restorative. A home that not only looks good, but genuinely feels good to live in.
