Biophilic space design for women’s wellness
Is there a connection between how a woman’s space is designed and her well-being?
Speaking from experience, yes.
During the pandemic lockdown, we were holed up on the 25th floor of a low-ceiling condo in Mandaluyong City. It was a one-bedroom unit, and the windows were only on one side, facing Saint Francis (and Lourdes School of Mandaluyong).
Day after day, I would sit beside the window and stare at the Sierra Madre mountain range from a distance. There were no vehicles on the roads, so the sky was clear enough for me to make out some windmills on one small part of it.
We were living in a nice area, beside a nice mall. I had a nice view of the sky (and birds which I never noticed until it was that quiet) and my son and I never got sick of Covid. But the space made me feel like I could not breathe.
Tomorrow, March 8, is International Women’s Day, and the whole of March is Women’s Month in the Philippines. I thought of writing design- and space-related topics connected to women’s well-being.
Biophilic design — even before I learned this was what it was called — eventually worked for me. When the lockdown eased a bit, we moved out of the condo and into an 80s style apartment in Quezon City.
Wood, plants, and white — these were the keywords that helped me regain balance in that new space. These were the elements of my biophilic design.
What is Biophilic Design?
Biophilic design is the conscious effort to connect humans with nature in the built environment. It’s about bringing the outdoors in, incorporating natural elements like light, plants, materials, and even patterns that mimic nature.
Biophilic design is not just about aesthetics; it is about creating a sense of connection to the natural world, which is inherently beneficial to our mental and physical health.
Why is Biophilic Design important for women?
Women often face unique pressures and stressors in their daily lives. From work and family demands to societal expectations, it is more crucial than ever to create spaces that promote mental and emotional well-being.
Biophilic design can play a vital role in achieving this.
Women are often the primary caregivers in the home, and our well-being is essential for the well-being of the entire family.
Biophilic design can help create a sanctuary where we can recharge, find peace, and nurture our creativity.
Its core principles are
Direct experience of nature: This involves bringing natural elements directly into the space, like incorporating living plants, water features, natural light, or even views of nature through windows.
Indirect experience of nature: This involves using design elements that evoke a sense of nature, such as natural materials (wood, stone, bamboo), patterns inspired by nature (leaves, waves, clouds), or even the use of calming colors found in nature (greens, blues, browns).
Space and place: This refers to the design of spaces that encourage movement, exploration, and a sense of connection to the natural world. Think of creating spaces that feel open, airy, and inviting, with a focus on natural light and ventilation.
Incorporating nature’s elements
Here are some key ways to incorporate biophilic principles into your home to create a space that supports women’s wellness:
1. Natural Light
Maximize daylight: Designate spaces for natural light to flood in, especially areas where you spend a lot of time, like the living room or kitchen.
Strategic window placement: Place windows to offer views of nature, even if it’s just a small garden or a tree-lined street.
Light filters: Use sheer curtains or blinds to soften harsh sunlight and create a more calming atmosphere.
2. Plants
Indoor greenery: Bring the outdoors in with a variety of plants, from small succulents to larger leafy plants.
Choose plants that thrive: Select plants that thrive in your home’s light conditions and require minimal maintenance.
Consider air-purifying plants: Certain plants, like snake plants and peace lilies, can help improve indoor air quality.
3. Natural materials
Wood: Incorporate wood furniture, flooring, and accents to bring warmth and a sense of grounding.
Stone: Use natural stone for countertops, backsplashes, or flooring to add a touch of elegance and durability.
Bamboo: This sustainable and versatile material can be used in furniture, flooring, and even decorative elements.
4. Calming colors
Earthy tones: Embrace shades of green, blue, brown, and beige to create a sense of tranquility and connection to nature.
Soft pastels: Use soft pinks, blues, and yellows to evoke a sense of serenity and relaxation.
Neutral base: Create a calming backdrop with neutral colors like white or gray, and then add pops of color with natural elements.
Other things you can do are having a “living wall” or your own vertical garden, no matter how small; having a small tabletop fountain so the calming sound of water creates a sense of serenity; using nature-inspired patterns on your walls, curtains, or furniture covers; and creating a connection to the outdoors through patios, balconies, or a small garden.
This can provide a sense of escape and renewal.
A restorative and peaceful environment
By incorporating biophilic design principles into our home, we can create a space that promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and enhances our overall well-being.
It is a conscious choice to prioritize our connection to nature. It’s about creating spaces that not only look good but also make us feel good.
My son and I eventually moved into a high-ceiling place with windows from floor to ceiling and sliding doors as walls. It gave us the sense of space we needed after living for so many years in places where we needed to make ourselves “small” so we could fit into them.
Today, we are in a quiet neighborhood with our very own pocket garden. As I type, the golden hour (my favorite time of day) is about to begin. I can see it through all the windows where I also see our garden.
Biophilic design works. Happy International Women’s Day!
