Bringing Nature indoors- embracing natural beauty this season

Still on-trend and a personal favourite of mine, biophilia can be described as ‘an innate love for the natural world’.

It sheds light on why a view of greenery can stimulate our creativity, why spending time with animals or walking through a park can be profoundly rejuvenating, why we’re drawn to the flicker of a fire or the sound of ocean waves and why shadows and heights can both intrigue and unsettle us. Bringing the natural world into our indoor spaces creates a visual and sensory connection to nature- but it’s more than just adding plants, it’s also about incorporating natural materials, textures, and light in a way that mimics the outdoors. 

According to various studies, biophilic applications can be divided into 3 main areas: 

Through direct experience, by incorporating natural elements such as water or water features, sunlight, plants. 

Through indirect experience, by incorporating natural materials, patterns & items representing nature, like seashell or leaf patterns  

By the experience of space and place, where elements are created to evoke ideas of mystery, refuge & risk, that are linked to childhood memories and experiences- like the way we feel when exposed to certain elements of nature. 

The art of biophilic design isn’t only about aesthetics, it’s also about nurturing mental health, turning interiors into spaces where you can unwind, recharge, and feel at peace. Bringing elements of the outdoors into your home or office can transform your space, adding a sense of warmth and calm. Interiors gain a cosy vibrancy, promoting relaxation, focus, and even a boost in mood with this form of design- and can be simply achieved by including natural elements like wood, plants, and flowers to liven up a space. 

Use wooden accents in furniture, flooring, or décor, and consider using materials like bamboo, cork, and sustainably sourced hardwoods to add authenticity and an earthy quality to your interior. These natural materials are durable and environmentally friendly, aligning with the principles of biophilic and sustainable design, which in turn supports environmental well-being, an essential component of holistic design. 

Why not spoil yourself with a beautiful bouquet of your favourite flowers or better yet, a potted plant that will last even longer? By placing these around your home or office space, you have the double benefit of adding a connection to Nature and also improving your interior’s air quality. Be sure though to choose plants that are suitable for your home’s lighting conditions and that complement your overall design aesthetic. You can also include dried or fresh arrangements to bring a seasonal touch to your home and create a natural focal point. 

I always recommend adding stone or marble elements, like coffee tables or decorative objects, to give interiors a solid, grounded feel. These textures introduce organic sophistication and incorporating textiles like wool, linen, and jute offer texture and warmth, evoking natural softness- they are ideal for creating tactile comfort  which invites you to settle into the space. Applying earthy colours to your interiors can work together to reduce stress and foster a sense of tranquility- and the upcoming trending colours for the new year are the perfect choice to create this effect. Consider warm, earthy hues like deep reds, burnt oranges and rich browns, to evoke feelings of warmth & comfort. 

Exposure to natural light and seeing the passing of time over the course of the day is also essential for us as human beings, and is proven to boost mental and physical well-being- even helping to combat seasonal affective disorder. Ensuring that enough light comes in through your windows during the day creates a more open, airy ambiance, making rooms feel larger and more uplifting. 

Incorporating elements of biophilic design is easy to implement in your interior- with so many options available to you, how will you choose to reconnect to the natural world for your own peace of mind?

Nicolene Mausenbaum, owner/ director of  Dezyna Interiors, is a qualified interior designer who specialises in creating inspiring modern spaces for busy professionals internationally- helping clients love the space they’re in. Skilled with over 24 years of experience, Nicolene is a listed Professional Senior Interior Designer member of the IID (The African Institute of the Interior Design Professions), and has created many unique interiors internationally from residential, corporate & commercial spaces to retail interiors. She is also a published interior expert, featuring in publications like Stylist.co.uk; Daily Mail; Women & Home; Ideal Home & others.