Biophilic Design
Biophilic design is based on the principle that humans have an inherent connection with nature, and so bringing natural elements into design makes people feel better. While biophilic design originated alongside the green and eco movements in the '70s, since then its benefits have been proven by scientific and psychological researchers.
In practice, biophilic design means being intentional and thoughtful about bringing nature into your space. This includes straightforward interventions like potted plants, moss walls, living walls, botanical design installations, and the use of varied materials like wood, sand, stones and more.
Our biophilic design philosophy
At Urban Spikes, we believe that every design is better when it incorporates natural elements, and that every design and every taste can include biophilic components. We partner with our clients to enhance any space through botanical innovation, creating thoughtful installations that reflect their style and goals.
We aim to create designs which draw people in, and use natural elements to achieve design goals and affect the mood and ambience of a space. Our moss art installations, for example, bring the calming presence of nature to spaces where traditional plants might not thrive, from low-light interiors to high-traffic commercial areas. We are attuned to the ways that humans respond to nature and know that both commercial and residential designs can be improved by incorporating biophilic practices.
Biophilic design benefits
Incorporating natural elements into design has distinct benefits for people at work and at home. Here are some of the highlights of recent biophilic research:
In the workplace
Nature and natural design elements lead to lower stress, better job performance and less employee sickness
Natural elements
Specifically, workplaces with natural elements report 15% higher productivity and 6% higher wellbeing.
At home
Plants can boost your mood and even improve self esteem.
Nature
Including plants and even photos of nature, can lower stress and improve resilience and recovery.
Many people feel these benefits without necessarily realizing they’re benefitting from biophilic design. If you’ve ever been drawn to a room because of its wonderful view, felt happier looking at the plant you added to a mantlepiece, or even felt recharged after a walk through a leafy street, you’ve experienced the power of nature.
To learn more about biophilic design, check out:
An academic literature review
of indoor plant effects, which include better health and academic performance
view our work
If you are in the Dallas area, we would love to welcome you to our store so you can see some of our work in person and meet our wonderful team. Online, you can find examples of commercial and residential work on our Instagram and in our gallery, and some of our gifting designs in our shop.
