Biophilic Design: Healing Through Nature-Inspired Spaces

Have you ever walked into a space and instantly felt calmer, lighter, or more energised? Chances are, that environment was designed with nature in mind. This concept is known as biophilic design, an approach that integrates natural elements into our built environments to promote physical, emotional, and psychological well-being.

At JuneAura, we believe that colour, light, and nature work together to create spaces that support healing. In this article, we’ll explore the science behind biophilic design, how it benefits both mind and body, and how you can incorporate it into your home or workspace.

The Science Behind Biophilic Design

Biophilic design is more than just adding a few plants to a room, it’s a scientifically backed approach to improving human health through nature-inspired environments. Studies show that natural elements can:

• Reduce stress and anxiety by lowering cortisol levels (Ulrich et al., 1991).

• Enhance cognitive function and creativity (Browning et al., 2014).

• Improve air quality and respiratory health by incorporating plants that filter toxins (NASA Clean Air Study).

• Regulate circadian rhythms through exposure to natural light, improving sleep patterns and energy levels (Figueiro et al., 2017).

Key Elements of Biophilic Design

Biophilic design focuses on creating a connection between indoor spaces and the natural world. Here are six core principles that can transform your environment into a healing space:

1. Natural Light and Colour Psychology

• Sunlight boosts serotonin and helps regulate our sleep-wake cycle.

• Soft greens and earth tones mimic nature, reducing stress and creating harmony.

• Blue tones evoke the sky and water, encouraging relaxation and focus.

How to apply it: Position furniture near windows, use light-reflecting surfaces, and choose nature-inspired colour palettes to enhance mood.

2. Indoor Plants and Greenery

Plants improve air quality, boost oxygen levels, and absorb toxins like formaldehyde and benzene.

Greenery has been shown to increase productivity and reduce fatigue in workspaces (Nieuwenhuis et al., 2014).

Best plants for health:

• Aloe Vera: Air-purifying and healing.

• Snake Plant: Absorbs toxins and produces oxygen at night.

• Lavender: Reduces anxiety and improves sleep.

3. Organic Shapes and Natural Materials

• Curved, flowing forms mimic patterns in nature, creating a sense of calm.

• Wood, stone, clay, and woven textiles provide a tactile connection to the earth.

How to apply it: Choose wooden furniture, woven rugs, and ceramic décor to introduce organic textures into your space.

4. Water Features for Relaxation

The sound of water lowers blood pressure and heart rate (Alvarsson et al., 2010).

Water symbolises renewal and balance, making it ideal for meditation spaces.

How to apply it: Small indoor water fountains, aquariums, or even digital nature sounds can create a soothing atmosphere.

5. Nature-Inspired Artwork and Visuals

Viewing images of nature triggers the same calming effects as being in nature itself (Kaplan & Kaplan, 1989).

Murals, wallpaper, or paintings of forests, oceans, or mountains can help reduce stress and improve concentration.

How to apply it: Use botanical prints, landscape photography, or abstract art inspired by nature to bring the outdoors in.

6. Scent and Soundscapes

Natural scents like pine, lavender, and citrus can enhance mood and memory.

Birdsong and rustling leaves create a sense of calm and grounding.

How to apply it: Use essential oil diffusers, natural candles, or sound machines with nature-based audio.

The Healing Power of Biophilic Design in Different Spaces

1. Home Environment

• Bedroom: Use soft green and blue tones, breathable fabrics, and dimmable lighting for deep relaxation.

• Living Room: Incorporate large plants, warm wood tones, and a water feature for a tranquil setting.

• Kitchen: Earthy yellows and terracotta shades can stimulate appetite and digestion.

2. Workspaces and Offices

Studies show that biophilic elements in offices increase productivity by 15% (The Human Spaces Report, 2015).

How to apply it: Add desk plants, nature-inspired artwork, and adjustable lighting for focus and well-being.

3. Healthcare and Therapy Spaces

Patients in rooms with nature views recover faster and require less pain medication (Ulrich, 1984).

How to apply it: Use soft lighting, calming colours, and plant-based décor in healing spaces.

Biophilic design is more than a trend, it’s a science-backed approach to healing, well-being, and balance. Whether through natural light, plants, water, or colour psychology, integrating nature into your space can profoundly impact your mental, emotional, and physical health.

At JuneAura, we embrace these principles to create colour palettes and designs that heal. By bringing elements of the natural world into your daily life, you can cultivate a space that nourishes both body and soul.

How do you incorporate nature into your home? Share your ideas in the comments below!