Biophilic design - bringing the healing power of nature indoors

Photo by David Bruyndonckx

Time spent in nature can be an integral part of a wellness routine and self-care. Just a short walk in the woods or a city park can boost mood and increase feelings of relaxation. There has been a shift to "walking meetings" since it has been shown that time outdoors can enhance creativity and problem solving abilities.

When life gets tough, I turn towards the forest to centre myself. Some of my favourite spots to hike are along the Niagara Escarpment. When I'm out there in the woods, I experience calm, gratitude, contentedness and relaxation; some amazing feelings.

What does this all have to do with interior design?

Recently, there has been an emerging term called "biophilic design" which focuses on incorporating nature into the built environment to enhance human well-being and create harmonious spaces. It's based on the idea that humans have an innate affinity for nature, which can be leveraged to improve physical, mental, and emotional health.

Biophilic design has always subconsciously been part of my interior design philosophy and why many elements in our projects have been nature-inspired. We use neutral tones that evoke moss, stone, and bark, incorporate textures that replicate the many patterns found in nature and add natural materials like wood, marble, and plants to essentially bring the outdoors in.

I am excited to announce that I am taking my understanding of wellness and biophilic design one step further by becoming certified by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT) as a Forest Therapy Guide. By the end of this program, not only will I be able to guide forest bathing walks, but I will be able to bring my deeper connection with nature to the projects I am privileged to design. This does not mean that every new space will be "nature-themed" but more so that the healing modalities that are gained through time spent connecting to nature will be incorporated seamlessly through interior design to promote wellness.

If you have any questions or if you have a project you are considering and you would like wellness and biophilic design elements incorporated, please feel free to get in touch here: www.studioAK.ca/contact We offer in-home interior design consultations and interior design services in Toronto, GTA, and cottage country. Virtual interior design consulting is available internationally.

Take care and talk soon,

Amy Konarzycki

Founder and Principal Designer

Studio AK