With over 30 years of experience in the interior design industry, Jane Gorman has become one of Melbourne’s leading residential interior designers, known for creating beautiful, functional spaces that reflect both personality and style. As sustainability continues to shape modern interiors, biophilic design has emerged as a powerful trend, transforming homes by reconnecting people with nature. In this blog, Jane explores the principles of biophilic design and offers practical tips for incorporating it into your home.
What is Biophilic Design?
Biophilic design is an innovative approach to interior design that focuses on integrating natural elements into built environments. The term “biophilia” means “love of nature,” and this design philosophy aims to foster a deeper connection between people and the natural world. By bringing nature indoors, biophilic design enhances well-being, boosts mood, and creates calming, inspiring spaces.
The Benefits of Biophilic Design
1. Improved Health and Well-Being
Incorporating natural elements into your home can reduce stress, improve air quality, and enhance mental clarity. Studies have shown that homes with natural light, greenery, and organic materials promote relaxation and overall well-being.
2. Increased Productivity and Creativity
Biophilic design isn’t just for homes—it’s also perfect for home offices. Natural light, indoor plants, and nature-inspired decor can boost creativity, focus, and productivity, making your workspace both functional and inspiring.
3. Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal
Bringing nature indoors adds warmth, texture, and depth to your interiors. Whether it’s through lush greenery, natural timber, or earthy colour palettes, biophilic design creates visually stunning spaces that feel both modern and timeless.
Key Elements of Biophilic Design
1. Maximising Natural Light
Natural light is a cornerstone of biophilic design. Jane recommends using large windows, skylights, and glass doors to flood your home with sunlight. Sheer curtains or light-filtering blinds can help maintain privacy while allowing light to flow freely.
2. Incorporating Indoor Plants
Greenery is one of the simplest ways to introduce biophilic design into your home. Potted plants, hanging gardens, and vertical green walls not only enhance aesthetics but also improve indoor air quality. Jane suggests using a mix of large statement plants like fiddle leaf figs and smaller varieties like succulents or herbs for versatility.
3. Natural Materials and Textures
Integrating organic materials such as wood, stone, bamboo, and rattan brings a tactile, earthy feel to interiors. Jane loves combining reclaimed timber with natural fibres like linen, cotton, and jute to create cosy, inviting spaces.
4. Earthy Colour Palettes
Biophilic design favours colours inspired by nature—think greens, browns, soft blues, and neutral tones. Jane recommends layering these hues with natural textures to create a harmonious, grounded atmosphere.
5. Water Features
Incorporating water elements, such as indoor fountains or aquariums, can introduce a sense of tranquillity and movement to your home. The sound of flowing water adds a calming ambiance that enhances relaxation.
6. Nature-Inspired Art and Decor
Art that reflects nature—such as botanical prints, landscape photography, or sculptures made from natural materials—can further connect your interiors to the outdoors. Jane suggests combining these elements with natural light and organic textures for a cohesive look.
Practical Tips for Bringing Nature Indoors
1. Create a Green Focal Point
Designate an area of your home, such as a living room corner or entryway, as a green focal point. Use a combination of large plants, hanging baskets, and natural decor to create an eye-catching, nature-inspired space.
2. Use Sustainable, Eco-Friendly Materials
Sustainability and biophilic design go hand in hand. Jane advises choosing eco-friendly materials like reclaimed wood, bamboo flooring, and non-toxic paints to create a healthy, environmentally responsible home.
3. Blur the Lines Between Indoors and Outdoors
Maximise the connection between your indoor and outdoor spaces with bi-fold doors, large windows, or indoor-outdoor living areas. This seamless transition allows for more natural light and a greater sense of openness.
4. Embrace Seasonal Changes
Biophilic design is dynamic, reflecting the changes in nature. Rotate your indoor plants and decor accents to align with the seasons, bringing in warmer tones for autumn and fresh greenery for spring.
Biophilic Design in Melbourne Homes
Melbourne’s diverse climate and rich natural landscapes make it the perfect city to embrace biophilic design. From inner-city apartments to suburban homes, incorporating natural elements can transform your living spaces into serene, healthy sanctuaries.
Jane Gorman’s expertise in blending sustainability with timeless design ensures that every home she touches reflects the beauty of nature while maintaining functionality and style.
Biophilic design is more than just a trend—it’s a lifestyle that promotes health, sustainability, and well-being. By bringing nature indoors, you can create a home that feels peaceful, energising, and beautifully connected to the natural world.
Ready to transform your home with biophilic design? Contact Jane Gorman today to start your journey towards a more sustainable, nature-inspired living space.