Since sight is the main sense used when we interact with the outside world, the direct experience of nature is one of the most effective attributes in biophilic design. Being surrounded by natural lighting and plants is a sure fire way to have people feel the positive effects that experiencing nature in a space can provide.
Lighting is a big component of the direct experience of nature. It provides an easy way to allow the natural world to affect an inside space. For example if it is sunny outside there will be more light in your space, but if it is cloudy outside there will be less light. This simple connection created when using natural lighting goes a long way to bring a space closer to nature.
One of the most commonly considered aspects of biophilic design is the incorporation of plants in a space. Adding foliage into a space can instantly increase the direct experience of nature in that space, although it is important to note that one potted plant in the corner of a room will not be enough to provide the benefits of biophilic design. To have a positive effect on a space many plants will be needed. This aspect of the direct experience of nature can be harder to incorporate into spaces than other aspects depending on how green your thumb is, and it requires active maintenance.
Water features are another great way to enhance the direct experience of nature in a space. This could be as simple as adding a fountain or a pond, or you might be lucky enough to build next to a natural body of water. Since we need water to survive, it makes sense that water is very calming to us. People commonly use the sound of running water to fall asleep to and find the natural flow of water very meditative. Because of this, adding a water fountain to a space is a great way to directly bring nature indoors.
Fire is also a commonly used aspect of biophilic design. Although fire can be a source of agitation it can also be harnessed to serve as something that can make a space very warm and homey.
The direct experience of nature in a space is a great way to improve your mental and physical health. Wouldn’t you much rather work in a space filled with windows, plants, running water, and a cozy fireplace than a closed off cubical?
