In a world that increasingly lives online and indoors, our homes have become sanctuaries more than ever before.
That’s exactly why biophilic interior design is taking the spotlight. With its natural textures, soothing color palettes, and organic materials, biophilic design doesn’t just look beautiful—it feels good to live in. And if you’re thinking about integrating these elements into your home, Bertch offers the craftsmanship, customization, and natural finishes that make biophilic design easier than ever.
What Is Biophilic Interior Design?
Biophilic design is rooted in the idea that humans have an innate connection to the natural world, a concept backed by both psychology and biology. This design style incorporates nature into indoor environments through direct and indirect means—think plants, daylight, natural materials, organic forms, and even the subtle inclusion of nature-inspired color palettes like earthy browns, leafy greens, and sky blues.
Core biophilic design elements include:
- Natural lighting and ventilation
- Use of wood, stone, and other natural materials
- Indoor plants or green walls
- Nature-inspired textures and patterns
- Views of nature or water features
A Brief History of Biophilic Design
Biophilic design has an interesting and meaningful history that connects people to nature through the spaces they live and work in. The idea comes from the term biophilia, made popular by biologist E.O. Wilson in the 1980s, which means our natural love for and connection to the living world. Although the concept was named relatively recently, the practice of bringing nature into design has been around for centuries—think of lush Roman gardens or peaceful courtyards in traditional Islamic architecture. Some even say the concept goes back to the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, one the seven wonders of the ancient world. As cities grew and people spent more time indoors, designers and architects began to realize the importance of reconnecting with nature for our health and happiness. That’s where biophilic design really started to take shape as a modern approach. Today, it focuses on using natural light, plants, water, textures, and shapes that remind us of the outdoors, helping create spaces that feel more alive and welcoming.
This hand-coloured engraving depicts the fabled Hanging Gardens, with the Tower of Babel in the background. Artist unknown (public domain).
Why Is Biophilic Design Gaining Popularity?
The rise of biophilic interior design is far more than a design fad, it’s a reflection of shifting lifestyle priorities:
- Post-pandemic wellness: More people post-Covid 19 are prioritizing home environments that support mental health and well-being.
- Sustainable living: With a stronger emphasis on eco-conscious living, using sustainable and renewable materials (like those offered by Bertch) aligns perfectly with biophilic principles.
- Work-from-home culture: Natural design elements help boost productivity, creativity, and mood, ideal for the new home office standard.
According to multiple studies, environments rich in biophilic design elements can reduce stress levels by up to 60%, enhance cognitive function, and even support better sleep patterns.
This beautiful kitchen features tons of natural light thanks to the skylights, large windows, and sliding glass door. Several plants and natural wood tones bring mood-boosting vibes to this space.
Shown here is Bertch’s Riverside door style, in Snowbank stain on Maple wood.
The Benefits of Biophilic Design
Embracing biophilic interior design isn’t just about the aesthetics. Here are just a few compelling benefits of biophilic design:
- Improved air quality from plants and materials that breathe and don’t off-gas toxins.
- Enhanced mental health, thanks to calming natural surroundings.
- Increased productivity and creativity, making your home a space where you feel energized and inspired.
- Stronger connection to nature, even in urban environments.
- Sustainability, which promotes conscious consumption and design decisions that are better for the planet
Bring Nature Indoors with Bertch Cabinets
So how can you bring this trending philosophy into your own space? That’s where our Bertch Cabinet Makers come in. With over four decades of experience crafting cabinetry in the Midwest, Bertch has become a go-to for homeowners and designers looking for high-quality, American-made cabinetry with a natural touch.
Here’s how Bertch can help your biophilic design dream come to life:
1. Natural Wood Materials
We offer a wide variety of woods and finishes that emphasize organic texture and authenticity. These materials are not just visually warm—they create a sensory connection to the outdoors.
2. Sustainable Craftsmanship
Sustainability is a core value at Bertch. Our responsible sourcing, eco-friendly manufacturing processes, and commitment to reducing waste support environmentally conscious design—are all essential parts of biophilic living.
3. Customizable
Whether you’re looking for a bold kitchen island or a “Sage Green” vanity with open shelving, Bertch allows for total customization to reflect the natural environments that resonate with you.
4. Well-Integrated Storage
Good biophilic design isn’t just about what’s visible, it’s also about what’s hidden. Check out our innovative storage solutions that reduce visual clutter, allowing natural elements to be the star.
5. Spa-Like Bathroom Solutions
Looking to create a biophilic haven in your bathroom? Bertch’s Bath line includes vanities with open shelving, natural finishes, and serene styling that mirror the tranquility of a forest retreat.
6. Extensive Color Palette
Bertch’s biophilic design-inspired color palette draws from nature’s hues—earthy greens, warm browns, soft sky blues, and muted stone grays—to create calming, organic spaces that foster a connection to the natural world. Bertch’s comprehensive selection of luxurioius factory finishes makes biophilic design a breeze.
