Why every home needs to connect with nature

Vincenzo Visciglia, partner at AAVVA Interiors, talks biophilic interior design

Biophilia is an innate desire to connect with nature,

and biophilic design can transform a home. We may choose a house because of its calming waterfront vista or relaxing golf course views, but bringing nature into personal spaces can also imbue a sense of peace. It’s not merely a case of placing a single green plant in one corner, rather it’s about incorporating nature from every angle, through ventilation and lighting choices to selecting natural materials and creating soothing spaces.

Lockdown saw us all spend more time at home,

and this reinforced the importance of being close to nature. The idea that we could create a natural sanctuary within four walls became appealing for many, reinforced by a desire to live an increasingly sustainable lifestyle. This translated as being able to open windows to let fresh air in, spending time in rooms with natural daylight to help balance our circadian rhythm and using natural scent essential oil burners.

Biophilic design sounds high-end but it’s really quite simple when it comes to design choices.

If you’re working with a professional interiors specialist then they will be able to advise you on the latest solutions and innovations, but we can all start with the basics.

Air circulation is key,

as changing or improving air quality is key to bringing new energy into the home. If opening a window isn’t an option then a HEPA air purifier is a worthwhile investment, as is regular a/c maintenance. Some plant varieties are also natural air purifiers.

Access to natural light is vastly underrated.

We instinctively chart the transition from day to night and by creating comfy, naturally lit spaces we feel connected to mother nature. Daylight also supports productivity, so a home office or desk with a window is preferable. If not possible, a portable daylight lamp is a must-have.

Introducing plants offers multiple benefits.

Apart from the obvious green connection, varieties like spider plants, aloe vera and cheery chrysanthemum are among those known to ‘cleanse’ air. Plants also help increase indoor humidity levels and thus improve air quality. From garden centres to street corner sellers and online stores, Dubai has plenty of places to indulge green fingers. If you’re not great with live plants, a mix of high-quality faux and hardy succulents, for example, is a good compromise.

Incorporating natural materials is a double tick for the biophilic design and sustainability box.

Add a piece of bamboo furniture, a scavenged shell or stone water feature as a nod to the natural world; plus it’s also a great way to introduce texture and patterns that we see when out in a forest, the mountains or on a beach.

Biophilic design sounds high-end but it’s really quite simple when it comes to design choices