How Biophilic Design and Colour Psychology Transform Our Homes and Health
In today’s fast-paced world, reconnecting with nature is essential for our wellbeing, yet it can feel increasingly elusive as we spend more time indoors. This week on The Healthy Home Show Podcast, I chat with Nicla Diceglie from Nicla D Interiors, a passionate advocate of Biophilic design and colour therapy. She shares her journey and insights on how these elements play a profound role in enhancing mental and physical health.
What Is Biophilic Design?
Biophilic design isn’t just about tossing a few plants into a room or setting up an indoor garden. As Nicla points out, it’s a holistic design philosophy based on scientific research, which aims to reconnect us with nature to improve cognitive function, productivity, and mental health. Studies have shown that exposure to nature can significantly reduce stress and anxiety. It’s worth noting that today, many people spend over 90% of their time indoors, missing out on nature’s restorative benefits. Here’s where Biophilic Design becomes transformative.
Key elements of Biophilic Design include:
Natural Materials: Incorporating wood, stone, and other natural textures fosters a sense of the outdoors inside.
Indoor Plants: Not only do plants connect us to nature, but they also purify indoor air by filtering out toxins found in many furnishings and finishes.
Natural Light: Maximising natural light can improve mood and energy levels, so consider using mirrors to reflect light or arranging seating to face windows.
Botanical Patterns: Incorporate nature motifs through wallpaper, cushions, or wall art for a subtler approach to Biophilia.
Colour Psychology: How Colours Influence Our Moods
Colour psychology goes beyond aesthetics; it’s a science about how colour impacts mood, behaviour, and even physical wellbeing. Nicla explains that when designing for her clients, she first explores how they want to feel in each room. For instance:
Blues and Greens: These cool hues are soothing and ideal for restful spaces like bedrooms. Dark blues, in particular, have a cocooning effect, encouraging deep relaxation and helping with insomnia.
Warm Tones: Colours like red, yellow, and orange inspire energy and warmth, making them great for social spaces like kitchens and living rooms. Warm tones can enhance connection and make people feel more at ease and expressive.
Nicla shares a story of a client with insomnia, where painting the bedroom a deep blue created an instant sense of calm and relaxation. By also using natural fabrics and heavy drapery to block light, she created an atmosphere that encouraged restful sleep. As Nicla says, “The choice of colour wasn’t just about preference; it was about designing a space that supported my client’s mental health.”
Sustainable and Non-Toxic Design Choices
Biophilic design and sustainable design often go hand in hand. Nicla highlights that when we bring natural materials into our homes, we should be conscious of their environmental impact, especially regarding indoor air quality. Many materials in our homes release harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds) that can trigger respiratory issues and headaches. Surprisingly, indoor air is often more polluted than outdoor air, as pollutants accumulate in closed spaces.
Some key tips for reducing indoor toxins include:
- Choose Natural Materials: Opt for untreated wood, organic fibres, and natural stone.
- Consider Non-Toxic Furnishings: Mattresses, for instance, are a major source of chemicals; choosing non-toxic options can make a big difference.
- Add Air-Purifying Plants: Plants like spider plants, snake plants, and Boston ferns naturally filter indoor air, making your home healthier over time.
Designing for Climate and Location
The climate plays a crucial role in colour choices, as Nicla discovered when working in Spain. In hot climates, interiors lean toward lighter tones like whites and pastels, which feel fresher and more airy, essential for maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. In the UK, however, deeper, warmer colours are preferred, enhancing coziness during colder months.
Building a Community and Course for Wellness in Design
Nicla recently launched an online course aimed at interior designers and enthusiasts, guiding them in creating “Biophilic vibrant sanctuaries” that blend nature with colour psychology. Her course includes insights on designing with nature, sustainable practices, and a strong focus on creating sanctuaries that leave the stresses of the world outside.
Final Takeaways: Biophilic Design and Colour Psychology
As we strive to create homes that support our health and happiness, Biophilic Design and Colour Psychology offer a path forward. Key takeaways include:
Incorporate Nature: Natural materials, indoor plants, and maximising natural light foster a healthy environment.
Use Colour Intentionally: Design with colour to support wellbeing—whether it’s deep blue for sleep or warm hues for social spaces.
Choose Sustainable Materials: Be mindful of the impact of materials on both the environment and indoor air quality.
Our homes should be more than just a space to live; they should be sanctuaries that reflect our needs and nurture our wellbeing.
For more details on the work of Nicla Diceglie, please check out the links below:
I hope you have enjoyed hearing about how Colour and Biophilic Design can affect our MIND and Mental Health in this week’s episode. If you are interested in diving into the other 12 main concepts that create a Healthy Home and Lifestyle, there’s loads more info on my website – www.charlielemmer.com
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Be WELL
Charlie x
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