Eco-Friendly Home Upgrades Enhance Biophilic Design

What is Biophilic Design

The late great architect, Frank Lloyd Wright, said: “Study nature, love nature, stay close to nature, it will never fail you.” In essence, this is the core of Biophilic Design. This home design concept is a sensory experience that connects humans to nature visually, audibly, and physically to promote health and environmental sustainability. Studies have shown that using biophilic elements, such as sunlight and natural elements, can improve sleep and reduce anxiety. 

Six Principles of Biophilic Design

1. Environmental Features – These are natural elements and green features, such as stone sinks and native plants that are used throughout a home’s interior.
   
   

2. Natural Shapes and Forms – Biophilic Design mimics the complex shapes in nature using organic shapes and curved edges on fireplaces and accent walls. Intricate patterns and carvings are generally used in furniture and curtains.
   
   

3. Natural Patterns and Processes – This mirrors nature’s rhythms and processes by incorporating transition, contrasts, and clear boundaries that contribute a sense of unity to interior spaces.
   
   

4. Light and Space – Biophilic design creates large open spaces with abundant natural light. It also uses the interplay of light and shade to create visual interest in a room and mimic the outdoors.
   
   

5. Place-Based Relationship – This principle aims to connect homeowners with the local geography, culture, or ecology. It involves using native plants, local materials, and local traditional building techniques.
   
   

6. Evolved Human-Nature Relationships – The goal of this principle is to reflect a person’s bond with nature to evoke fundamental emotions, such as safety, awe, or curiosity. 

What are Eco-Friendly Home Upgrades

The goal of any eco-friendly home improvement project is to lower energy bills or reduce the carbon footprint. As a result, these projects prioritize energy efficiency, reducing water use, or using sustainable materials. These home improvement projects can be as small as caulking up cracks around windows and doors or as large as installing solar panels.   

Merging Nature with Sustainability –  Biophilic Design-Centric Eco-Friendly Home Upgrades

Homes that incorporate biophilic design-centric eco-friendly home upgrades are highly desired. According to a study published by Freddie Mac, eco-friendly homes, or sustainable homes, sell 2.7% faster than comparable unrated homes and for 3%-5% more money. Here are a few ideas to incorporate into the next project:

Living Room & Bedroom 

• Bamboo or reclaimed floors 

• Skylights to integrate daylight and reduce energy consumption

Bathroom  

• Reclaimed stone or tile decorations 

• Low-flow water fixtures 

• Wall plants or live moss walls 

• Skylight for moisture ventilation

Kitchen 

• Energy-efficient appliances 

• Reclaimed glass countertops 

• Low-volatile organic compound (VOC) cabinetry 

• Open shelving made of reclaimed wood 

• Skylight for moisture and cooking vapors ventilation

Dining Room & Home Office  

• Bamboo or reclaimed floors 

• Skylights or Sun Tunnel skylights for additional daylight 

VELUX Skylights Promote Biophilic Design and Eco-Friendly Home Upgrades

Skylights have been promoting biophilic design for centuries. They have been used to create a connection with nature in buildings around the world. Multiple studies have been conducted to prove that not only do they improve aesthetics, but they can also reduce the energy consumption of homes and commercial buildings. 

For architects who are ready to add skylights to their next project, VELUX offers comprehensive BIM models and CAD drawings. These files easily integrate with any new or existing project. Certifications and specifications are also available for all VELUX skylights and Sun Tunnel skylights.

Skylight installation instructions are available for roofers, contractors, and remodelers on our website. More information can be found on our YouTube channel. Hands-on skylight installation training is also available in select areas via our Pro Partner Academy or Mobile Training Van. 

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