Embracing Biophilic Design to Create The New Indoors

In an era where the lines between the natural environment and built spaces continue to blur, biophilic design has emerged as a transformative approach in interior design. DorianBahr is at the forefront of this movement, creating spaces that not only embody the essence of the outdoors but also enhance the well-being of their occupants. The team shares their insights on how biophilic design principles are redefining the indoors, creating environments where nature and design harmonize to offer a new way of living and working.

Reconnecting with Nature Inside Out

Curtis Dorian, President and Managing Partner at DorianBahr, articulates the essence of biophilic design, “At its core, biophilic design is about re-establishing the connection between humans and nature. It’s more than just adding plants to a space; it involves designing spaces that inherently speak to our need for natural connections, such as using natural materials, maximizing natural light, and incorporating nature views and elements.”

Curtis emphasizes that this approach goes beyond aesthetics—it affects how spaces make us feel, positively influencing occupants’ mental and physical health.

Elements of Biophilic Design

Michael Bahr, Vice President and Managing Partner, dives deeper into the elements that constitute biophilic design. “We focus on three critical elements: direct nature, indirect nature, and spatial conditions. Direct nature involves the incorporation of living plants, water features, and abundant natural light. Indirect nature includes natural materials, colors, shapes, and imagery. Spatial conditions refer to the design of spaces in ways that mimic natural environments, with varied and dynamic elements that evoke the outdoors.”

Michael’s overview outlines a holistic approach, ensuring that biophilic design is integrally woven into every facet of an indoor space.

Sustainability and Well-being Hand in Hand

Shannon Dunn, Production Director of Operations, highlights the symbiotic relationship between biophilic design, sustainability, and well-being. “Incorporating biophilic principles into our projects goes hand in hand with our sustainability goals. Utilizing sustainable materials and improving indoor environmental quality directly contribute to the well-being of space occupants,” says Shannon.

Shannon elaborates on how these design choices result in energy-efficient, environmentally friendly spaces that promote physical and mental health benefits, such as reduced stress, enhanced mood, and increased productivity.

Technological Integration in Biophilic Design

Cris Haest, Marketing Director, discusses the role of technology in implementing biophilic design. “Technology helps us push the boundaries of biophilic design. From advanced lighting systems that mimic natural light cycles to sophisticated materials that simulate textures and patterns found in nature, technology powers our ability to create more authentic connections with the natural world indoors.”

Cris underscores how digital tools and innovations enable designers to experiment and achieve increasingly immersive natural environments within built spaces.

The New Indoors: A Sanctuary for the Future

The insights from DorianBahr’s visionary team paint a promising picture of the future of indoor spaces. Biophilic design is not just a trend—it’s a fundamental shift toward creating environments that are in harmony with nature, supportive of sustainability, and conducive to health and well-being.

“In embracing biophilic design, we’re crafting spaces that nurture and rejuvenate,” concludes Curtis Dorian. “We’re envisioning a future where our indoors are as rich and vital as the outdoors. At DorianBahr, we’re committed to making this vision a reality, building spaces that are attuned to our innate need for connection with nature.”

Through the use of thoughtful design principles, sustainable practices, and innovative technology, DorianBahr is leading the charge in biophilic design, showcasing how the integration of natural elements into the built environment can create more thoughtful, healthful, and vibrant spaces for all. This transition towards biophilic design promises not only a redefinition of indoor spaces but also a deeper understanding of our place within the natural world, heralding a new era for design and architecture—one where the indoors becomes a sanctuary for the human spirit.