Have you ever noticed how a single potted plant can revitalise your room or how your shoulders feel calmer when sunlight floods through your window? We are now learning that these little ties to nature are crucial to our mental and physical health in an increasingly digitised world where screens and concrete rule the day.

Rooted in our intrinsic connection to nature, biophilic design is a revolutionary approach that's actually as old as humanity itself. "Biophilic design has been proven to improve almost all beneficial human functions, energy, sleep, heart rate, and creativity," explains Ellen Mirro, Principal at Studio TJP. Weaving natural elements into our living spaces is the basis of this thoughtful design philosophy that creates beautiful interiors that rejuvenate the soul.

Ready to transform your home into a sanctuary that will nurture your body and mind? Then read on to learn how to bring the outside in and forever change your home.

Biophilic design starts at the core of the raw human need to connect with nature. Whilst you may have a few house plants scattered around your living room for aesthetics, it’s actually doing a lot more than you think, it’s rooted in science. Studies show that when we're surrounded by natural elements, our bodies respond on a cellular level: stress hormones drop, focus sharpens, and creativity flows more freely.

According to Dr. Holly Schiff, clinical psychologist, greenery has a direct impact on mental well-being. "Our brains are wired to associate plants and greenery with relaxation and restoration, triggering a calming effect on the nervous system," she explains. This powerful effect stems from our evolutionary history — after all, we spent far more time in forests than we did in apartments.

What makes this design approach so revolutionary is its simplicity. Whether it's morning light streaming through windows or the organic texture of a wooden coffee table, each natural element serves as a subtle reminder of our connection to the outside world, helping our nervous systems find that sweet spot of calm alertness.

Creating a biophilic home doesn’t require you to start major renovations and flip your home upside down, it actually may be more simple than you think. Incorporating a few thoughtful natural elements here and there will help you transform your living spaces into a sanctuary that feels deeply connected to nature. Here are some practical ways to embrace nature-inspired interior design in your home:

1. Embrace natural light and views

Biophilic design’s magic lies in its ability to blur the line between what we consider indoor and outdoor spaces. An important element for this to take shape is, quite literally, a window to the outside. As Ellen Mirro explains:

“In our practice, considering natural light is the very first thing we do when designing a space. If light is the first thing to consider, then views and materials are a close second and third”.

So what you can do is to open up curtains, use sheer fabrics or strategically add mirrors to amplify light in darker areas. Try rearranging your furniture to make the most of the sunlight and where possible, create sightlines to outdoor spaces, especially if you have a beautiful view to embrace!

2. Incorporate greenery

Just as natural light and outdoor views help create a sense of connection to nature, greenery plays a vital role in biophilic design. Beyond aesthetics, plants have a profound impact on our well-being. 

“Even artificial plants can promote a sense of tranquility,” says Dr. Holly Schiff. “They create a more serene and soothing environment, acting as a visual cue that signals relaxation to the brain.” This is because our minds instinctively associate greenery with nature, which, as we’ve seen before, helps regulate stress levels and foster a sense of calm.

So bring plants into your space! Add lush potted greenery, cascading hanging planters or an eye-catching living wall to instantly make your interiors feel more vibrant and welcoming. And if you don’t have a green thumb, go for faux plants and enjoy the same benefits. Using natural plant pots and holders made from stone, wicker, or clay helps enhance that element of nature in the home and grounded atmosphere.

3. Choose natural materials and textures

Beyond lighting and greenery, the materials and textures we surround ourselves with play a crucial role in biophilic design. Often, we incorporate natural elements into our homes without even realizing it. Materials like stone, wood, and clay introduce warmth and organic texture that manufactured materials simply can’t replicate. Interior Designer and Founder/CEO of Kathy Kuo Home, Kathy Kuo, recommends: 

"Reclaimed wood, natural stone and woven cane and rattan are all great materials to consider for larger furniture pieces."  

Obviously, not everything in your home needs to be made from natural materials. However, focus on pairing larger furniture pieces with décor that complements their organic feel. Think cushions or throws inspired by natural textures and earthy tones. For instance, a moss-colored throw or a woven jute rug can add an inviting, grounded touch to your living space, reinforcing the connection to nature.

4. Add water features for tranquility

If you already have a fish tank or a water terrarium at home, you’re already incorporating biophilic design without even realising it! Water is one of the most fundamental elements of life, and including it into your space can have a profound calming effect. A small fountain, an aquarium or even a small decorative water feature can bring a meditative quality to your home, enhancing relaxation and focus.

Just like your plants didn’t have to be real, you don’t even have to physically have water flowing to enjoy it’s restorative benefits. Simply playing the sounds of a gentle stream or cascading waves in your home has been shown to trigger a positive physiological response, reducing stress and promoting a sense of serenity.

5. Bring nature into decor and art

Even if a decor element isn’t directly from nature, it can still evoke the same sense of calm and connection. Nature-inspired prints and patterns subtly infuse the essence of biophilic design in your home — they may not be made from natural elements but it’s what’s in the frame that counts. Recent research on biophilic art displays found that simply looking at nature-inspired art helps melt away stress while boosting our mood and overall sense of wellbeing.

Recent studies reveal that simply looking at nature-inspired art helps melt away stress while boosting our mood and overall sense of wellbeing. This adds another layer to biophilic design, making it an especially powerful tool for creating a restorative home environment.

The most effective pieces often feature blues and greens, though any interpretation of nature can work – from realistic landscapes to abstract forms like our Summer Meadow Print. Place these artworks at eye level in the rooms where you spend the most time or create a visual flow between rooms with multiple pieces. The goal isn't to perfectly replicate nature, but to capture its essence in a way that creates a biophilic atmosphere.

The future of biophilic design

In a world where we are increasingly disconnected from nature, biophilic design serves as a bridge back to our roots. Beyond its appeasing aesthetic appeal, it has been proven to enhance well-being by calming the mind and boosting creativity.

“Our homes are so influential to our quality of life,” shared Dr. Schiff “so anytime you can honor nature in your home is an opportunity to feel better, calmer and more at peace with the world at large.”

Who knows what new and creative ways we’ll discover to bring nature into our homes? But for now, returning to the basics might just be the most natural way to create a space that feels as it was always meant to — connected, calm and alive.

Ready to bring the outside in? Explore RJ Living’s collection of furniture and decor inspired by the natural world to create a space where you can truly thrive.

Article Sources

Ellen Mirro is the Principal at Studio TJP. She is a Historic Architect and Architectural Historian focused on custom residential, adaptive reuse, and landmark preservation projects.

Dr. Holly Schiff is a clinical psychologist licensed in Connecticut, Florida, New York, and Rhode Island. She specialises in treating children, adolescents, young adults and their families.

Kathy Kuo is the CEO of Kathy Kuo Home. She has 20+ years of experience in the home industry and is a celebrated interior designer and recognised tv personality.