Discover how incorporating natural elements promotes harmony, health, and tranquility in your living spaces. Explore the benefits of adding a balcony, floor-to-ceiling windows, a small garden, or rainwater-collecting systems for a calm and balanced home.

In our fast-paced world, our connection with nature often takes a backseat. Incorporating elements of the natural world into our living spaces profoundly benefits our well-being. 

The biophilic design integrates nature into our homes, promoting harmony, health, and tranquility. 

Studies show that bringing nature indoors reduces stress, improves air quality, and boosts productivity. This article explores simple biophilic tips for a serene home sanctuary.

Defining Biophilic Design and Its Benefits

Biophilic design is an architectural approach that seeks to reconnect us with nature by incorporating natural elements into our living spaces. From the choice of materials to the arrangement of spaces, every aspect is carefully designed to foster a sense of connection with the natural world.

The Philippines and Colombia, known for their diverse natural landscapes, have embraced biophilic design principles in their house architecture. By incorporating biophilic design elements, homes in these regions can harmonize with their surroundings, creating an environment that nurtures residents and the ecosystem.

Adding a Balcony for Ventilation

Adding a balcony is a great way to introduce biophilic elements into your home. A balcony extends your living space and allows you to immerse yourself in the outdoors.

Imagine sipping a cup of coffee imported from Colombia while enjoying the refreshing breeze and panoramic views. Then, if your house lacks a balcony, don’t worry! You can still incorporate this idea by installing a window box or planter.

These simple additions can bring greenery closer to your living space, promoting better indoor air quality and a soothing atmosphere.

Adding Floor-to-Ceiling Windows for Lighting and Ventilation

Another great biophilic design hack for your house? Add floor-to-ceiling windows.

Floor-to-ceiling windows are a remarkable architectural design feature that allows natural light to flood your home. Sunlight is vital in biophilic design, as it positively affects our circadian rhythm, mood, and overall well-being.

In addition to maximizing natural light, these expansive windows offer excellent ventilation, reducing the reliance on artificial cooling systems and minimizing indoor air pollution.

By opening these windows, you can invite fresh air and the gentle sounds of nature, creating an ambiance that embraces the outdoors.

Building a Small Garden or Planting Nook

Embracing biophilic design can sometimes require extensive renovations. Thus, a small garden or planting nook can bring nature closer to you.

Whether it’s a vertical garden, potted plants, or a herb garden in your kitchen, these green additions infuse your living space with vitality and beauty. Nurturing plants can also be therapeutic, reducing stress and improving mental well-being.

So, grab your gardening tools and create a pocket of nature within your home!

Installing Rainwater Collecting Systems

Sustainability is a crucial aspect of biophilic design. That’s why incorporating rainwater-collecting systems in your home reduces your ecological footprint and provides a natural water source for your plants. 

By harnessing the power of rain, you can create a self-sustaining ecosystem within your property. Implementing rainwater harvesting systems aligns perfectly with biophilic design principles, as it emphasizes our connection with the environment and encourages responsible resource management.

Biophilic Houses Are The Next It Things

Create a biophilic sanctuary at home by integrating nature. Add a balcony, large windows, a small garden, or rainwater systems. You can always customize based on your locality or the materials available. Biophilic architecture methods can help a lot with your aim to live a sustainable life. Be inspired by architectural designs in the Philippines and Colombia. Transform your cube house into a tranquil haven. Embrace nature’s beauty and reap its rewards.

BillionBricks is ignited by its passion for providing net-zero solutions to each household worldwide, including biophilic design tips. To know more about our BillionBricks and our net-zero homes and communities, please email us at hello@billionbricks.org

References:

1. Gould, Jamie. 10 Tips For Adding Biophilia Features And Benefits To Your Home. 2020.

2. Kellert, Stephen R., and Timothy J. Heerwagen. Biophilic Design: The Theory, Science, and Practice of Bringing Nature into the Built Environment. 2008.

3. Korpela, Kalevi M., et al. “The Role of Nature in Coping with Psycho-physiological Stress: A Literature Review on Restorativeness.” 2017.

4. Lohr, Virginia I., et al. “The Effect of Indoor Foliage Plants on Health and Discomfort Symptoms among Office Workers.” 1996.