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.
Environmental Features – These are natural elements and green features, such as stone sinks and native plants that are used throughout a home’s interior.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
Learn More About Biophilic Design
Subscribe to us above
Or reach out to our Customer Service for Pros with any Questions