Biophilic Design

Biophilia is a ‘love of life or living systems.’ It’s our inherent human connection to the natural world. In an urban world of technology and industrial architecture, this fundamental connection can sometimes feel all but lost. Biophilic design is an innovative way to harness this affinity in order to create natural environments for us to live, work and learn. By consciously including nature in interior or architectural design, we are unconsciously reconnecting, bringing the great outdoors into our constructed world.

As pioneers in sustainability, Interface advocates biophilic design and knows it is critical to human health to include natural systems and processes in our buildings and constructed landscapes. And, continued research has proven the positive effects that nature or environments that mimic nature have on overall health and well-being. Our aim is to elevate a biophilic approach higher on the global design agenda.

The Benefits of Biophilic Design

An environment devoid of nature can have a negative effect on health, productivity and well-being. There is a direct correlation between clever space design and improved well-being and performance. Even simple changes to incorporate nature into our spaces can have a huge impact on how we feel where we work, live, learn, and heal. From workplaces and hospitals to urban living spaces and schools, studies have shown that adding biophilic elements to interiors can reduce stress, blood pressure and heart rates—while increasing productivity, creativity and overall well-being.

Biophilic Design Inspiration

Biophilic design incorporates nature into the built environment to create restorative and connective spaces. It’s more than just the addition of a potted plant or two. Natural light, vegetation, living walls, natural textures and materials and nature views will provide a positive impact.

Looking for inspiration? Visit our Pinterest board to discover more examples of biophilic design or visit our Human Spaces blog to learn more about ways to incorporate biophilic design into your practice.
Explore Pinterest Explore the Human Spaces Blog

Biophilic Design Research

Biophilic design affects the way we feel, work and create. Design that connects us to nature is proven to inspire us, boost our productivity and even contribute to a stronger sense of well-being.

Get an understanding of how with the by downloading one or both of our peer-reviewed Human Spaces reports to learn more on our findings.
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Biomimicry

Learning from nature to create modern design solutions is called biomimicry. At Interface, we take inspiration from nature’s genius to create more sustainable products, processes and systems. An example of this concept is i2®, our innovative approach to flooring design, or Tactiles®, which revolutionised the way modular flooring is installed in projects.
i2 TacTiles