Two people having a meeting in a modern biophilic-designed office café with natural lighting, indoor plants, and contemporary furnishings.

Biophilic Design: Bringing Nature into Modern Interiors

In today’s fast-paced, digitally dominated world, we are spending more time indoors than ever before. It’s no surprise that people are looking for ways to reconnect with nature from the comfort of their homes and workplaces. Enter biophilic design—an interior design approach that incorporates natural elements to promote wellbeing, creativity, and calm.

At Oraanj Interiors, we believe biophilic design isn’t just a passing trend—it’s a fundamental shift in how we think about our indoor environments. Rooted in both sustainability and science, biophilic interiors are reshaping homes and workspaces across the UK.

As an established, award-recognised interior design studio in London, we’ve seen biophilic principles move from niche preference to an essential part of modern living—particularly in urban environments where access to nature can feel limited.

What Is Biophilic Design?

Biophilic design is derived from the term biophilia, meaning “love of nature”. It refers to the concept of designing spaces that enhance our connection to the natural world, using elements such as:

  • Natural light
  • Indoor plants
  • Organic materials (wood, stone, clay)
  • Nature-inspired patterns and textures
  • Views of green spaces or water

The result? Healthier, more inspiring, and more sustainable interiors.

For many interior designers in London, biophilic design has become a practical response to compact living—helping interiors feel calmer, brighter, and more breathable without increasing square footage.

Why Choose Biophilic Design?

Studies show that environments designed with biophilic principles can lead to:

  • Reduced stress and anxiety
  • Improved concentration and productivity
  • Better air quality
  • Enhanced creativity
  • A stronger sense of well-being

Whether you’re designing a city apartment, a countryside retreat, or a home office, biophilic elements can create a sanctuary that nurtures mind and body.

In our real-world residential and commercial projects, we’ve observed that even small changes—such as improved daylight flow or the introduction of natural textures—can noticeably improve how a space feels and functions day to day.

Core Elements

1 . Natural Light and Ventilation

Maximise sunlight by using large windows, glass doors, and open-plan layouts. Natural ventilation not only improves air quality but also helps regulate indoor temperatures more efficiently.

Oraanj Tip: Use sheer curtains or slatted blinds to soften light without blocking it entirely.

Thoughtful space planning plays a key role here, ensuring furniture placement doesn’t obstruct light paths—an approach often used by luxury interior designers in London when working with urban layouts.

2. Indoor Plants and Green Walls

Houseplants are one of the easiest and most effective ways to introduce biophilic design. From simple potted herbs in the kitchen to dramatic living walls, greenery boosts oxygen levels and brings life into any space.

Trending in 2026: Vertical gardens and low-maintenance moss walls are becoming a biophilic staple in modern homes and commercial spaces alike.

Plant placement can also align with Feng Shui consultation principles—for example, using greenery to soften entry points, improve flow, or balance energy in transitional areas such as a hallway entrance.

3. Natural Materials and Textures

Incorporate materials like wood, stone, bamboo, cork, linen, and rattan. These not only add tactile richness but also evoke a sense of warmth and authenticity.

Design Note: Combine reclaimed wood with polished concrete for an eco-chic contrast.

Natural textures are particularly effective when paired with a considered colour consultation, ensuring tones remain cohesive and calming rather than visually busy.

4. Water Features

Water is a key component of biophilic design. Indoor fountains, fish tanks, or even soundscapes of trickling water can create a calming, meditative environment.

In compact homes or apartments, subtle water elements—such as tabletop fountains or reflective surfaces—can deliver the same sensory benefit without overwhelming the space.

5. Organic Shapes and Patterns

Mimic the irregular shapes and rhythms of nature with curved furniture, leaf-like prints, or flowy architectural features. This reduces the hard, linear feel of traditional interiors.

Organic forms are increasingly used in entryway design, especially in apartments where a front door opens into the living room or directly faces a wall—helping soften transitions and create a more welcoming first impression.

How Oraanj Interiors Brings Biophilic Design to Life?

Our design team works closely with clients to create interiors that feel fresh, inviting, and deeply connected to the natural world. We offer:

Whether you’re starting from scratch or refreshing an existing space, we can help you incorporate biophilic design principles without sacrificing style or function.

Our full-service approach allows us to integrate biophilic elements holistically—from early layout concepts through to lighting, finishes, and final styling—ensuring consistency and longevity in the design.

Final Thoughts:

Biophilic design isn’t about filling your home with greenery—it’s about creating a balanced, sustainable lifestyle that enhances your mental and physical wellbeing. As more homeowners across the UK prioritise mindful living, this design philosophy continues to shape the future of interiors.

Whether applied subtly or as a central concept, biophilic design supports healthier spaces—particularly in city homes, apartments, and workplaces where thoughtful design choices make a meaningful difference.