INTERIORS Biophilic Interior Design

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Interior Design

A design concept that connects humans with the natural world, providing a positive impact on health, productivity and wellbeing

words jackie tyrrell

In recent times there’s been a significant shift of approach in interior design that strives to enhance human wellness and betterment. Architects and designers have been considering novel approaches not just to how a space can look better, but how it can be better for the humans that occupy it. Biophilic interior design focuses on creating a space connected with nature. The term biophilia was first used by the German-born American social psychologist and psychoanalyst Erich Fromm in his book, The Anatomy of Human Destructiveness (1973), to describe a psychological tendency in

‘For furniture, choose humans of being attracted to all that is alive and vital. sustainable woods or other organic materials However, the concept is not new. Over 2000 years ago the Romans were designing homes with outdoor spaces. In the classic layout of the Roman Domus, the atrium, an open central such as bamboo, which hall, served as the centre of the house’s social, business and has great durability political life. It was open at the roof, which let in light and air for circulation, and also allowed rainwater for drinking and washing and strength’ to collect in the impluvium, a shallow pool sunken into the floor. The peristylium, an open garden courtyard within the house, offered a tranquil refuge from stress, noise and crowds. The occupants sought to create healthier cleaner air, wanted improved scents and less noise pollution specifically to improve health and wellbeing. It is essential that interior design primarily focuses on the human experience and considers the physical, mental, and emotional needs of the people that will occupy a particular space. Contemporary interiors are increasingly incorporating biophilia as a holistic approach to design to promote health, safety and welfare. As cities grow taller and denser, many structures consist of windowless spaces with artificial light. This lack of daylight significantly affects the physical and mental health of those spending time in these environments. To combat such issues, biophilic design looks at the impact that nature has on humans. It then works to incorporate these positive aspects into our everyday lives. Biophilic design can be organised into three core principles – Nature in the Space, Natural Analogues and Nature of the Space. These core principles encompass fourteen patterns of biophilic design.

01 Nature in Space

This literally means to bring the outdoors inside. It addresses the direct, physical and ephemeral presence of nature in a space or place. This can be achieved by including plant life, animals, water, sounds, scents and other natural elements that will ignite the five senses. The seven biophilic design patterns that make up this category are:

1. Visual connection with nature: Stimulating views to elements of nature, living systems and natural processes. This can include a window with a garden or sea view, potted plants, flower beds, courtyard gardens or artwork of natural scenes.

Experience: Stimulating or calming.

Conveys a sense of time, weather and living things.

2. Non-visual connection with nature: Focuses on the nonvisual senses. Listening to the singing of birds, the trickle of water flow, the crackling of a fireplace. Scent elements can include naturally fragrant plants or essential oils. Touch can be stimulated by using natural or artificially-textured materials or the opportunity to interact with an animal, and taste by a kitchen herb garden or edible plants.

Experience: Fresh and well-balanced. Sounds, smells and textures that are reminiscent of being outdoors in nature.

3. Non-rhythmic sensory stimuli: The rich sensory stimuli of nature, inconsistent yet unpredictable motion, such as the movement of a cloud, the flicker of a flame, the sway of grasses, leaves in a breeze or ripples on water.

Experience: A brief but welcome distraction that is interesting, stimulating and energising.

5. Presence of water: Water enhances the built environment experience since it can be seen, heard and touched. This can be achieved by including a water wall, an aquarium or simply by playing water sounds.

Experience: Stimulating, powerful, fascinating and looks attractive. 4. Thermal and airflow variability:

Changes in temperatures and airflow that occur in natural environments. This can naturally occur when the sun passes through a window or airflow across the skin. Subtle changes in air and surface temperatures can be introduced to mimic natural environments. It is common practice to keep the temperature at the same level all day but this is not recommended.

Experience: Invigorating, refreshing, active and alive, but also comfortable.

6. Dynamic and diffuse light: Provide varying intensities of light and shadow that change over time, to create conditions that appear in nature. This may naturally occur through sunlight, moonlight or firelight. It can be mimicked with dimming features and accent lighting.

Experience: Displays signs of time and movement and causes feelings of drama and intrigue.

7. Connection with natural systems: Awareness of natural processes and the changes that occur during natural life cycles such as seasonal changes, reminding us of the process of healthy ecosystems. Create consciousness of seasonality and cycles with native plantings that grow and die with the seasons.

Experience: Creates awareness of seasonality and cycles of life. Can be nostalgic, profound and enlightening.

02 Natural Analogues

Introducing non-living evocations of nature to include objects, materials, colours, shapes, sequences and patterns. These can be in artwork, ornamentation, furniture, décor, and textiles. The three biophilic design patterns that make up this category are:

8. Biomorphic Forms and Patterns: Symbolic references to contoured, patterned, textured or numerical arrangements that exist in nature. These can be incorporated through natural colours, organic shapes, curves and other geometrical forms. Introduce fabrics, carpets or wallpapers with floral patterns, or sculptures that mimic natural elements.

Experience: Interesting, fascinating, attractive but also comfortable. Can provoke abstract thinking and creativity.

9. Material Connection with Nature: Materials and elements from nature that, through minimal processing, reflect the local ecology or geology and create a distinct sense of place. Examples include indigenous materials such as specific types of wood, clay, leather, stones or wool.

Experience: Rich, warm, authentic and comforting, and can sometimes stimulate touch.

10. Complexity and Order: Rich sensory information that adheres to a spatial hierarchy similar to those encountered in nature. Repetitive and symmetrical shapes can be introduced in wallpaper, carpet design and flooring. Fractal patterns can be found in classical art and ancient Mayan and Egyptian art. Embracing this concept satisfies a psychological need that everyone strives for, namely wholeness, integration and order.

Experience: Engaging and information-rich. Makes for an intriguing balance between boring and overwhelming.

03 Nature of the Space

Addresses spatial configurations in nature. This includes our innate and learned desire to be able to see beyond our immediate surroundings and our fascination with the slightly dangerous or unknown, but also the provision of a place for withdrawal, providing a feeling of safety. The strongest Nature of the Space experiences are achieved through the creation of deliberate and engaging spatial configurations commingled with patterns of Nature in the Space and Natural Analogues. The four biophilic design patterns that make up this category are:

11. Prospect: A space that feels open and free with an unimpeded view over a distance, for surveillance and planning. Displaying a piece of art at the end of a long hallway will highlight the open space while keeping a focus. Consider open plan and transparent materials.

Experience: A feeling of openness and freedom but also stability and safety.

12. Refuge: A place for withdrawal from environmental conditions or the main flow of activity, in which the individual is protected from behind and overhead. Examples include incorporating high-backed chairs, reading nooks, booth seating or canopy beds. Experience: Feels safe and provides a sense of retreat and withdrawal for work, protection, rest or healing. Separate or unique from surroundings but not necessarily disconnected.

13. Mystery: The promise of more information, achieved through partially obscured views or other sensory devices that entice the individual to travel deeper into the environment. This can be achieved by incorporating curved edges, winding paths and obscured views.

Experience: A sense of anticipation that makes one want to investigate further, understand or explore.

14. Risk/Peril: An identifiable threat coupled with a reliable safeguard. Art that seems to defy gravity using magnets, life-sized photography of feared animals or a transparent railing or floor panel are all examples of how to introduce this concept.

Experience: Exciting, intriguing, even irresistible but with a suggested threat that may be a little harmful or negative. Creates an urge to explore.

Jackie Tyrrell Design is an award-winning interior designer who specialises in biophilic design. Her experience also embraces interior and graphic design, product branding and project management. She formerly lectured at the Dublin Institute of Design. For further advice, contact Jackie at +353 86 277 87 96 or jackie@jtd.ie

WILD INSIDE

Ten practical tips to infuse the built environment with biophilic design for improved wellbeing

words jackie tyrrell

The places where we work and live can have a huge impact on our health and happiness. Following the concept of biophilic design, we can bring a little of nature’s magic back into our everyday lives.

Here are some suggestions for easy and accessible ways to start introducing elements of biophilic design into your home or office:

1. FRESH AIR Open up windows widely to let the fresh air and the sound of nature into your home and your mind. Listen to the sound of birds, rain or wind. Breathing in fresh air improves both the immune system function and the mood. It will also flush out stale air and balance moisture levels.

2. MAXIMISE NATURAL LIGHT Try to make the most of available natural light by keeping windows clear and clean. Reposition furniture, blinds, curtains or anything that’s blocking the full potential of sunlight.

3. INCORPORATE PLANTS The natural and random patterns created by plants add texture and visual interest. Add greenery in pots or trailing plants hanging from the ceiling. Introduce plants that captivate the sense of smell, such as rosemary and lavender. Plants are also natural air purifiers and mood boosters.

4. USE NATURAL MATERIALS Use natural materials like bamboo, cork, sustainable timber, stone and rattan. Organic materials not only add texture and provide a connection to nature, they also offer positive effects such as good moisture management, thermoregulation, odour control and antimicrobial properties.

5. EMBRACE SHAPES OF NATURE Play with organic

shapes such as soft curves, abstract forms that mimic the shapes found in natural objects. Organic shapes can create a calming, flowing atmosphere and help soften sharp lines in other parts of the room.

6. COLOURS OF NATURE From lush forests to

bright flowers and fiery sunsets, nature is brimming with colour inspiration. Channel the calm and beauty of the outdoors with palettes that can include fresh greens, watery blues and warm earth tones.

7. PLAY WITH FIRE Fire provides a direct experience of nature offering colour, warmth and movement. The flames of an open fire are cosy and inviting. The flickering of a candle is a simple but impactful way to add a spark of light and will make any space glow.

8. GO WITH THE FLOW Many of us feel strong connections to water, and water sounds create a soothing atmosphere. Modern water features can be adapted to suit virtually every type of space, regardless of size or shape. Indoor options include rain curtains, waterfalls, water walls and fountains. Aquariums are also an excellent choice as watching fish can help reduce stress and anxiety. If short on space, a table-top fountain is a wonderful way to tap into the interior water features trend.

9. VARY HEIGHTS AND SCALE Perfectly straight

lines and symmetry rarely exist in nature and the same goes for height. Trees, flowers and plants in different shapes and sizes live side-by-side. Having items of similar size, shape, and scale can feel contrived and man-made whereas varying the height and scale of decor mimics the randomness of nature and is more visually interesting.

10. CREATE A COSY NOOK Create a cosy space to read, meditate, enjoy some ‘me time’ or to simply relax and de-stress. Having a designated place for refuge is known to enhance our wellbeing and give us a sense of safety.

INSPIREDby Nature

Carol Cronin Artist – Dingle, Co. Kerry

Based in Dingle, Kerry, artist Carol Cronin’s seascapes capture the power and ever-changing moods of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged West Kerry coast

There’s something about water that delights us and inspires us. The beckoning quality of the ocean has an amazing power to captivate and enthuse artists and viewers alike. Tranquil, peaceful and relaxing but also mighty, capricious and relentless are all words we traditionally associate with the sea and its representations. We draw energy and vitality from the ocean, we draw sustenance from it and we learn to respect its power.

Carol’s unnerving ability to capture the movement of the sea on canvas is what draws us in, making it impossible to separate ourselves from her paintings. To view her seascapes is to embark on an adventure into the sea. carolcronin.com

The ZINZAN replica Little Petra Lounge Chair

A chair design that became associated with the Danish Funkis Style, a functionalist design aesthetic popularised in Scandinavia in the 1930s. It was a gentler, more opulent and organic aesthetic that challenged the minimalistic approach of Bauhaus.

‘Little Petra’ is famous for its inviting design: the deep seat and the wide, curved backrest invite you to luxuriate and provide exceptional comfort. The curved ears gently embrace, making you feel safe and welcome. Four rounded wooden legs form the basis of the chair and their shape underlines the organic design.

A true statement piece that will get the conversation flowing in your favourite place.

Height: 75 cm, Depth: 83 cm, Length: 81 cm, Material: Sherpa Boucle, Price: €725.00. zinzan.ie

The Tahiti Porcelain Tile at Regan Tile Design

Tiles can be a great solution for those who aspire to bring the outside in and enjoy the colours, shapes and tranquillity of nature in a practical way. There are now an increasing number of tile designs that take their inspiration from and incorporate the beauty of nature. One such design that is ideal for a feature wall in a bedroom, a conservatory or indeed a bathroom is Tahiti, a porcelain tile depicting the shapes and colours of tropical vegetation. Sized 60 cm by 120 cm, it is available from Regan Tile Design in Dun Laoghaire. regantiledesign.com

INSPIREDby Nature

Deborah Joyce Artist – Achill Island, Co. Mayo

The visually arresting and emotional paintings created by Deborah Joyce are all about natural rhythms, movement and energy. Her inspiration is derived from the ever-changing aspects of nature, which are known to improve vitality and mood. She works across all disciplines of art and design, including interior design. Her innovative works are known for their power, vibrancy and natural verve.

Living up a mountain surrounded by views of the Cliffs of Benmore, wild hares, sea birds, the Atlantic Ocean and the magnificent Keem Bay, Deborah’s work is very much a reflection of her surroundings.

Achill Island can be mysterious and eerie with unpredictable and harsh weather conditions. This experience is echoed in Deborah’s work as she draws from her journeys along the coastline and through the mountains, capturing moments in time, with Mother Nature providing constant inspiration. deborahjoyce.art

June McIntyre – Dingle Artworks

A celebrated artist, June McIntyre has captured just about every beautiful corner of the Dingle Peninsula over the thirty-five years that she has lived there.

Her unique style is a result of years of observation and experimentation with silk paints on silk using the batik wax-resist method. June was a teacher of art for many years, hence her competence in working with rich and varied media.

A visit to her gallery, Dingle Artworks, is truly inspirational for both artists and art lovers. June’s artwork is to be found in homes and collections all over the world. Shipping worldwide can be arranged. When visiting Dingle, all are welcome to drop in and say hello. Check out the new and wonderful website dingleartworks.com

Egan Stone, Kilbeggan, County Westmeath

Granite countertops are favoured for a good reason; they’re durable, elegant and easy to maintain, and each piece is unique! Granite’s timeless appeal, environmentally friendly nature and grained appearance adds a touch of quality and luxury, and it’s available in so many different shades that it will suit the design needs of any project.

Choosing a slab of granite for your interior décor is like adding an original piece of art to your home to enjoy every day.

Egan Stoneworks and Egan Granite & Marble, based in Kilbeggan, County Westmeath, are a well-established family business spanning an amazing six generations. They specialise in high quality granite and pride themselves in quality and service. eganstone.ie

Eco-Friendly Peppermint Grove

An exquisite collection of Australian soy candles, diffusers and bath and body products to bring luxury and timeless sophistication to modern-day contemporary living. Each of the ten luxurious and captivating fragrances from the range has been carefully created to encapsulate a unique part of the beautiful and immense Australian landscape. These scents will lift your mood and bring a feeling of tranquillity and serenity to your home.

All candles are made with natural soy wax lead-free wicks which lend themselves to a longer, cleaner, environmentally friendly burn.

All products are paraben-free and contain no animal-derived products. All outer packaging is fully recyclable. peppermintgrove.ie

Explore the world of the finest in home design at

The Victorian Company, Dundalk

The recently opened Victorian Company interiors shop in Dundalk, Co. Louth, set in a converted factory, has already established itself as a destination store where locals, tourists and day-trippers can enjoy a comprehensive selection of unusual and unique furniture and home accessories.

The beautiful old building is unique, with its own identity and distinctive visual character. Being specialists in period building restoration and supply was a distinct advantage for the owners, Mark and Brona McDonagh, as they set about restoring the building.

Under the same ownership as the Victorian Kitchen Company in Swords, Dublin, both stores can supply their own signature handmade kitchens and furniture, custom bathrooms, salvaged flooring and Arroll cast iron radiators.

The mix of antique and contemporary furniture and accessories offer unique inspiration on how to add a visually intriguing sense of balance to your home interior.

Here you will find a thoughtfully curated selection of lighting, kitchen accessories and cookware. There is also an exquisite collection of sofas, coffee tables, lamps and mirrors as well as outdoor furniture and planters.

Additionally, the Victorian Company provides a platform for local artists to exhibit their work. This chic design store offers a really enjoyable shopping experience and is well worth a trip to Dundalk. If you can’t visit in person, there is lots to browse through on their website.

www.victoriancompany.ie Victorian Company, Castle Road, Dundalk, Co. Louth