Biologist Edward O. Wilson developed a theory that stated that humans have an innate connection to other living things. Recognizing humanity’s place in nature and restoring it will supposedly enhance physiological and psychological connections to the outdoors. Biophilia, or love of life, has been adapted in the world of design. By bringing nature and pleasure into design elements of the home, the occupant will feel happier and more satisfied. You too can make the most of your home’s site and incorporate biophilic elements. Bring nature to you for a calming, serene home.
Create outdoor spaces
Outdoor living spaces give you a comfortable way to interact with nature. Having multiple areas like these around your home gives you options. Move from one porch to the next as the sun shifts or a breeze changes directions. The ability to choose a space based on comfort will increase your satisfaction. Design deep porches with high ceilings. This lets the sun stream in while you catch a whisper of wind. For added comfort and flexibility, install retractable screens on the large openings. Phantom’s motorized screens can be installed so that they disappear completely out of sight when not in use. Retractable screen systems are also able to match the existing architecture of your home so that your comfort is camouflaged. On the days when the sun is too strong, but you’d like to lounge in nature, bring the screen down.
Add furniture to your outdoor living spaces to further develop the feeling of relaxation. Retractable screens allow for natural ventilation through your porch while maintaining your view. You will be able to enjoy the ecology of your home’s site while still sitting in comfort.
Blend into surroundings
When designing a new home, or an addition to an existing home, utilize the topography of your lot. Build your porch into a hillside rather than leveling the elevation. This design choice will make your home feel like a natural part of the environment. According to biophilic theory, you are more likely to enjoy the space the more organic it feels.
Increase the nature-inspired atmosphere of your home by choosing indigenous building materials. Using wood harvested from native trees and stone mined from nearby quarries will allow your home to fit into the area. Think local. If the material can be found in the region near your home, use it.
Have a view
Be sure your home has many windows so that you can peer into nature. Looking at plants, whether they be those that are outside or those that are within the home, will ease tension. Retractable screens can also be fitted to your windows and will be completely out of site when not in use so you can enjoy the view and fresh air while keeping bugs outside. You won’t have to worry about these window fixtures obstructing your view of the outdoors.
If you are located near a body of water, be sure you have a clear line of sight to see it. Humans historically survived by orienting themselves near water. This innate instinct hasn’t left the human psyche. Having a view of water will add a calm quality to your home. If you do not have a pond or lake nearby, invest in a water feature for the interior of your home. The sound of bubbling water will sooth you and the humidity created by the feature will change the feel of the air.
Build in texture
The natural world has many unique textures. Bring this element into your home with the materials you use. A tactile piece of wall art or a shaggy rug will give your hands and feet something unique to touch. Find ways to fit these details in ev
ery room so that moving through the house becomes a sensory experience.
