Plants, natural materials and organic shapes are becoming increasingly common in our interiors. But biophilic design goes beyond a green aesthetic. It is about creating spaces that strengthen our connection with nature and support our wellbeing. During an event at The Hub in Brussels, Cedric Dethier from Jaspers-Eyers Architects explored how scientific insights into biophilic design can be translated into tangible design decisions.
Why We Are Bringing Nature Back Indoors
For centuries, nature shaped the way we designed buildings. Daylight, fresh air and changing temperatures were part of everyday life. With the introduction of artificial lighting, air conditioning and sealed façades, we gained greater control over our indoor environments, but lost some of that natural connection along the way.
Research into biophilic design highlights why this connection still matters.
Contact with nature can help reduce stress, restore our attention and support our wellbeing. The challenge for architects and interior designers? Not simply adding nature to a space, but weaving it back into the design itself.
More Than Plants and Natural Materials
Think dynamic daylight, organic patterns and natural textures. But also the balance between openness and shelter.
A fully open office offers clear sightlines but little privacy. An enclosed space provides shelter but can lack connection. It is the combination that makes the difference.
Visual complexity also plays a role. Too little variation can make a space feel empty, while too much stimulation can become overwhelming. The art lies in finding a natural balance.
What Does Biophilic Design Mean for Interiors?
Biophilic design starts with architecture, but comes to life through interior design. Light, materials, acoustics and spatial layout all shape how we experience a space.
Flooring has an interesting role to play. As one of the largest surfaces in an interior, it can introduce subtle patterns, textures and natural colour variations without creating visual clutter.
Carpet tiles can also contribute to acoustic and tactile comfort.
From Green Decoration to Intentional Design Choices
An office filled with plants is not necessarily a good example of biophilic design.
During his presentation, Cedric Dethier highlighted five design decisions that can make a meaningful difference:
- Share the view. Give more people access to natural light and views of the outdoors.
- Create places of refuge. Balance open spaces with areas where people can retreat.
- Let light change. Work with the natural rhythm of the day.
- Choose materials with intention. Select materials that reveal their origins and character.
- Introduce greenery thoughtfully. A few well-maintained plants can be more effective than an abundance of greenery.
Good biophilic design starts with the right decisions, not the final decorative touches.
The Future of Biophilic Design
Biophilic design will increasingly evolve from an aesthetic trend into an essential part of architecture and interior design. Not by simply adding more natural elements, but by considering light, space, materials and human wellbeing from the earliest design stages.
Scientific research will also play a greater role. How do different natural stimuli interact? And what are their long-term effects? These insights can help designers make more informed decisions.
At modulyss, we translate this connection with nature into flooring designs inspired by organic shapes, textures and colours. Our aim is to help create spaces that not only inspire visually, but also put the wellbeing of the people who use them every day at the heart of the design.
Plants, natural materials and organic shapes are becoming increasingly common in our interiors. But biophilic design goes beyond a green aesthetic. It is about creating spaces that strengthen our connection with nature and support our wellbeing. During an event at The Hub in Brussels, Cedric Dethier from Jaspers-Eyers Architects explored how scientific insights into biophilic design can be translated into tangible design decisions.