Biophilic design is about bringing nature into the spaces where we live, work, and spend our time. But it’s not just about adding houseplants or natural wood accents. When done well, biophilic design can actually help you use less energy and feel better while doing it. Here’s how it works and how you can use it to make your space more energy efficient, while still being inviting.
What Is Biophilic Design?
The word “biophilic” comes from “biophilia,” meaning a love of nature. Biophilic design is a style of architecture and interior design that taps into our connection to the natural world. It’s based on the idea that people are happier, healthier, and more productive in environments that include elements of nature.
This can show up in many ways:
Using natural light
Incorporating greenery, like plants and living walls
Choosing materials like wood, stone, and clay
Designing spaces that feel open and breathable
Adding patterns and textures that mimic nature (think leaf patterns, flowing water shapes, or soft natural tones)
Biophilic design has been shown to reduce stress, boost mood, and even improve sleep. But it can also reduce your energy usage, especially when paired with thoughtful planning.
How Biophilic Design Can Help You Save Energy
1. Better Use of Natural Light
One of the core principles of biophilic design is maximizing sunlight. This isn’t just about installing more windows. It’s about how you orient your space to make the most of daylight throughout the day.
Natural light reduces the need for artificial lighting during daylight hours. If your space is designed or arranged to let in more sun, you’ll rely less on lamps and overhead lights. Consider sheer curtains, reflective surfaces, and lighter color palettes to help bounce sunlight deeper into your space.
2. Improved Air Circulation
Biophilic design encourages openness and airflow. Strategic window placement and passive ventilation can improve natural cooling, reducing your reliance on air conditioning. High ceilings, operable windows, and cross-ventilation layouts can keep spaces comfortable without needing to crank the thermostat.
Bonus: indoor plants help purify air and can slightly raise humidity levels in dry climates, which may allow for more comfortable indoor temps.
3. Shading and Thermal Comfort
Trees and plants aren’t just pretty home decorations, they’re natural temperature regulators. Green roofs, shade structures, and climbing plants on exterior walls can reduce solar heat gain in the summer. Indoors, plants can also provide soft shade near sunny windows or act as barriers that help manage heat and airflow.
Materials like stone or brick that appear in biophilic design can also act as thermal mass, meaning they absorb and slowly release heat to help regulate temperature swings.
4. Energy-Efficient Behavior by Design
A space that feels more natural and comfortable often encourages people to use it differently. In a bright, sunlit office with fresh air and greenery, people may be less likely to overheat the room or turn on every light. Biophilic spaces tend to be used more thoughtfully and require less artificial intervention.
The result: better energy habits and a space that works with your rhythms, not against them.
Getting Started with Biophilic Design
You don’t need a full renovation to bring biophilic design into your home or office. Here are some small changes that can make a difference:
Add indoor plants to workspaces, entryways, or near windows
Rearrange furniture to take advantage of sunlight or airflow
Use natural materials for curtains, rugs, or decor
Add mirrors or reflective surfaces to bounce natural light
Choose color palettes inspired by nature (greens, browns, soft blues)
If you’re planning a remodel or new build, consider working with a designer or architect familiar with passive solar design and biophilic principles. The earlier you plan for nature, the more benefits you’ll get.
Biophilic design is more than a trend. It’s a smarter, healthier way to think about how we use our space. By reconnecting with natural elements, we create places that feel better and use less energy. Whether you’re looking to lower your utility bills or just breathe a little easier, biophilic design offers a fresh path forward.
FAQs About Biophilic Design and Energy Efficiency
What is biophilic design in simple terms?
It’s a design approach that brings natural elements like sunlight, plants, and organic materials into indoor spaces to make them feel more comfortable and human-friendly.
Can plants really help lower energy use?
Yes. Plants can shade sunny areas, improve humidity, and support better air circulation. All of which can reduce how hard your heating or cooling system has to work.
Is biophilic design expensive?
It doesn’t have to be. While big projects like green roofs or major renovations cost more, simple steps like adding plants or rearranging furniture for natural light can be affordable and effective.
Does it work in all types of buildings?
Biophilic design can be used in homes, offices, schools, and even retail spaces. The key is tailoring the approach to fit your space and how people use it.
