One of the biggest trends this year is Biophilic design. Biophilic design isn’t just about plants- it is an interior design approach that seeks to connect people more closely with nature. It’s well known that taking a walk in nature can make you feel calm and happy, but did you know research has shown exposure to nature can decrease anxiety and depression? Being in nature also promotes clarity and creativity- that explains outdoor classrooms! Biophilic design incorporates natural elements such as wood, stone and lots of natural light to create spaces similar to nature that positively impact well-being.

I didn’t know the term at the time but I used Biophilic design as the main pillar when renovating our home. We fell in love with the home because it was already filled with exposed beams, natural light, and plants. We exposed even more beams and replaced the carpet with wood floors to bring in more natural texture. We replaced the stair railings with sheets of glass- which feels more open and airy, and at times the sunlight bounces around and it gives the feeling of a reflection in water. We took out the large dark banana leaf tree in the middle of the home and replaced it with a sculptural and airy olive tree. And finally, the most important part- the kitchen. We minimized the layout of the kitchen and replaced the countertops with Taj Mahal quartzite.

It is beautiful. I actually breathe a sigh of relief when I walk in and see the stone filling the kitchen- it just makes me feel peaceful. Sitting at the island countertop sipping a coffee admiring the movement of the veining and colors is very relaxing to me. It’s similar to watching flames in a fireplace, looking at the movement of the oceans waves or admiring the intricate lines in a leaf. Natural stones have organic beauty that simply cannot be recreated by man.

I asked my friend Amber Dunford, who is a design psychologist, if I’m crazy or if the stone really does exude a calming effect. She confirmed the news: I wasn’t crazy. She also gave deeper insight saying; “We feel an innate connection to things that are derived from nature because it dates back to our ancestral survival skills when we had to understand the earth to live with it. Early humans were more connected to the earth and we shouldn’t lose that even if we have modern day housing.”

It makes complete sense doesn’t it? I believe Biophilia isn’t a trend, but a long lasting shift in the way we’ll live. Remember when you were a kid on a walk, collecting rocks? There was something soothing about the cool, smooth stone. The physical touch of a natural material aligns with the Biophilic principle of “material connection”. It’s the exact same effect as the natural countertops- we need more nature. 

About the Designer

Farah is a content creator and professional photo stylist who is known for her minimalist yet warm, organic, and inviting interiors. Through her platform she shows the trial-and-error realities of the DIY renovation process, especially through her current 1960's house that has pushed the boundaries of her design style.

Website: https://www.farahpro.com/
Social: @farahpro
Photo Credit: https://www.kateosbornephotography.com/
Fabricator Credit: https://designbykbc.com/
Design Psychologist: https://www.amberdunforddesigns.com/