Biophilic design is one of the most popular interior design themes that are transforming living spaces this year as more people want to add a sense of calm and serenity into their homes. This style, which involves the use of natural materials and textures, allows you to bring the outdoors into your abode. Experts like Ruth Mottershead, who is the creative director of eco-friendly interior design firm Little Greene, says that shared spaces such as living rooms are perfect for this type of interior design scheme. “Adding green to your living room will help to create a restful, positive space that will harness the calming effects of nature indoors,” she adds.
Most people think that biophilic design merely involves adding more indoor plants to your home. While live plants are essential to this design scheme, there are other ways to incorporate this style into your family room. Here are some of the best biophilic design ideas to turn your living room into a tranquil sanctuary.
Decorate with Natural Stone
Aside from plants, natural materials like stone, wood, linen, and wool are very much a part of biophilic design. If you’re planning to refresh your living room, consider using two or more of these elements to transform your space and give it some positive energy and calm. Stone, in particular, is a fantastic material since it adds texture to your space and requires little to no upkeep to maintain. You can decorate with stone by creating a feature wall in your living room to give it a rustic feel.
If you prefer a contemporary look for your space, think about replacing your flooring with granite, limestone, marble, or slate tiles. Got a working fireplace? Consider giving it a makeover by adding tiles to your fireplace exterior. Choose stone-look or marble tiles that will create a beautiful contrast with your stone tile floors, and pick tiles with a rough finish for a natural look.
Include Organic Fabrics
Adding furs, velvet, or satin fabrics to your living room can make it look luxurious. But if you want to achieve a consistently natural feel throughout the entire room, choose organic fabrics like jute, cotton, wool, or linen to decorate your space.
Think natural linen curtains on your windows, and a jute rug on your floor. Add throw pillows with natural cotton pillow covers in warm tones like rust, autumn red, marigold, and chocolate brown to make the space feel cozier and more inviting.
Don’t Forget to Add Wooden Elements
Wood can add a feeling of warmth to your living room and make it feel more comfortable and relaxing. It’s also timeless and extremely versatile, so it works whether you prefer traditional or a modern home design. Consider replacing your existing coffee table with a low wooden one with a natural or dark stain. Add rattan poufs or ottomans to create more seating, then place rattan or woven bamboo plant holders around the room. You can also decorate with wooden sculptures or rattan light fixtures to enhance your space.
Once everything is set up, add live plants, succulents, and vases filled with freshly cut flowers to complete the look of your living room. Now sit back and relax, and see how bringing nature into your home can improve your mood and overall wellbeing.