Bringing The Outside In

Bringing The Outside In

By Unatti Sharma, Studio Specialist at POI.

Walking into a space void of color, large windows, and natural elements typically triggers one thought: how quickly can I escape this dreary and sad environment? 

What causes us to feel this way has a lot to do with our innate longing for and love of nature. When people are asked where they feel most at ease, 9 out 10 will provide an answer that has something to do with nature. The natural world is an intrinsic part of our humanity. Sunlight gives us energy and positivity, green is associated with rejuvenation, and the sound of the ocean is often linked with the feeling of relaxation. While we can’t always be in the outdoors, these principles are now being reflected in the environments we build.

This brings us to this month’s topic: Bringing the Outside In.

 

“Biophilic design is a concept used within the building industry to increase occupant connectivity to the natural environment” It is believed that this connection to the natural environment either directly or indirectly has a positive impact on the people within the space. It can help combat fatigue, promote focus, and alleviate stress. 

This has become an especially popular trend today – and for good reason. Living the lockdown life – often as prisoners of our screens – it’s easy to feel that this connection to the natural world has been broken. 

To compensate for this, there are several ways to incorporate biophilic elements to the world around you, whether it is direct access to the outdoors, or design elements that enhance visual stimulation to mimic that which we could get from the outdoors.

Here are some of our favorite ideas:

Bio Canvas wall/mobile application – Nevins

 

Natural Light: Access to natural light and outdoor views creates a visual connection with the world beyond, which is why it is our first way to bring some life into a space. Clear our spaces around your windows, ensure you get as much sunlight as you can to quickly brighten up your space.

 

Tree Lamp provides an ambient light along with some visual ease– Green Concept Furniture

 

Vegetation: Consider becoming plant parents by bringing in some green to your space. Plants as we know reduce VOCs and are natural air filters. They increase efficiency and productivity, and can have a very calming effect on your mental health.

 

Timber Collection Zintra Sticks Acoustic Solutions – MDC Wall

Natural Textures and Materials: Adding in elements such as wood and cork can provide some warmth in the space and make it feel softer. It easily helps you connect with nature, creating a sense of comfort in an otherwise concrete world.

 

GDesk Dividers – GreenMood

Screens, Wallpaper & Artwork: The world we visualize is the world we live in. If you don’t have much of a choice, adding in elements that connect you to nature can also help. Featuring nature can be a simple solution to add life to dull spaces where nothing else is possible.

 

Mirrors by MDCWall

Mirrors: Clearing up the window might be a start, but sometimes that’s just not enough. So, adding in reflective surfaces to bounce more natural light off of can increase the brightness of the room, and rapidly transform the mood.

These are just a few fun ideas to join the biophilia transformation! Do you have a favorite? Let us know in the comments below!