Imagine walking into a home that instantly makes you feel calm, refreshed and connected to the outdoors. That’s the power of biophilic design – an approach to architecture and interior design that integrates natural elements to enhance well-being and create a more inviting living space. From large windows that maximize natural light to indoor plants that purify the air, this design trend brings the outside in, making your home feel both beautiful and functional.

At Gerstad Builders, we recognize the importance of thoughtful design that enhances everyday life. Let’s explore how biophilic design can transform your home and provide lasting benefits for both aesthetics and wellness:

1. What is Biophilic Design?

Biophilic design emphasizes the integration of natural elements into living spaces to create deeper connections between individuals and the outside environment. Designers turn to biophilic elements to draw on innate human curiosity toward nature and improve quality of life for homeowners. Biophilic design also reduces stress and fosters creativity, further adding to your physical and psychological well-being.

Recently, this design approach has gained traction due to its ability to breathe new life into your living space. Create a home that is both functional for your needs and nurturing to your mind and body. When you introduce biophilic design, your home leverages nature to enhance your daily life.

2. Maximizing Natural Light and Views

The presence of natural light in your home is so important for your well-being. Large windows and open floor plans invite light in, brightening the interior of your home while improving your overall mood, productivity and energy efficiency.

Designers suggest positioning your furniture near windows to maximize outdoor views. Create a natural flow between indoor and outdoor seating arrangements to connect your family room and outdoor living spaces.

We are pleased to offer four seasons rooms as an addition in many of our homes, a versatile space that combines indoor and outdoor living. The four seasons room brings together elements of a sunroom and screened porch, offering you a year-round space to live large and rejuvenate with natural scenery. Enjoy panoramic views of your property’s landscape with expansive windows and sliding doors leading to the backyard.

3. Incorporating Natural Materials

Looking for a subtle but sleek way to embrace biophilic design? It can be as simple as integrating natural building items such as wood, stone and other organic materials. The textures and colors of these materials bring the warmth and character of nature into your home.

We offer multiple opportunities at our Design Center to include natural materials in your Gerstad home. Whether it’s hardwood floors or stone accents on your home’s exterior or fireplace, we are happy to bring your ideas to life.

4. Bringing Greenery Indoors

Don’t forget about plants! Pick up some small potted plants at your local garden store and experience improved air quality and reduced stress. They can be placed anywhere in your home and often require very little maintenance. If you are feeling creative, consider designing a living wall or indoor garden that puts the refreshing properties of nature at your fingertips.

Some popular indoor plants include:

• Aloe Vera: This nifty succulent is very easy to care for! Place it in indirect sunlight and add water when the soil is completely dry. The best part? Once the plant is developed, you can reap its healing properties and enjoy refreshing aloe vera when you need it most.
• Dracaena: If you are looking for a beginner-friendly plant, a dracaena is the way to go. It thrives on bright, indirect sunlight but can also live in low light. Be careful not to overwater this plant since it’s very sensitive to moisture. It is recommended to water once the top inch of soil feels dry.
• Parlor Palm: Add some tropical flair to your family room or four seasons room with a parlor palm. It prefers low to moderate light and requires watering when the top of the soil is dry.
• Spider Plant: This leafy plant is known for its air cleansing properties as well as easy care instructions. Additionally, spider plants are pet-friendly and don’t require much watering.

5. Outdoor Living Spaces that Connect with Nature

As the weather warms up again, it will be the perfect time to spruce up your outdoor living area. When designing your space with biophilic tendencies, try to position outdoor seating and other items around any existing trees and shrubbery.

Want to add some green to your front patio? Plant flowers or shrubs along the exterior of your home to breathe new life onto the face of your home.

In the backyard, laying down a stone walkway or adding furniture made of natural materials can foster connections to nature. Include a stone fire pit for cozy nights around a warm fire or embrace natural landscaping that keeps your yard neat without losing its green appeal.

Water features are another way to bring nature to your backyard. Set up a water fountain by the patio or install a small pond that can easily be filled and drained with changing weather conditions.

Gerstad Builders understands the desire for outdoor living, which is why our homes are a blank canvas that come ready to be transformed with your ideas.

Biophilic design isn’t just a trend – it’s a way to create a healthier, more inviting home that nurtures both the body and mind. Whether through natural light, organic materials or greenery, incorporating elements of nature into your living space can enhance your overall quality of life.

Gerstad Builders takes pride in designing homes that feel warm, welcoming and connected to nature. If you’re looking for a home that blends beauty with well-being, explore our communities in Illinois and Wisconsin. Contact us today to learn more about available homes and personalization options that bring biophilic design to life.