Bring nature indoors with a biophilic design

Biophilic design, a concept rooted in our intrinsic connection to nature, will always be a popular choice for home interiors. By incorporating natural elements and themes into your living space, you can create a serene and rejuvenating environment. We’ve got five designs and some top tips for using Resene paints and wallpapers to easily achieve this harmonious design.

Moody motifs

Create a sophisticated and refined space with Resene Wallpaper Collection 38738-3.
Create a sophisticated and refined space with Resene Wallpaper Collection 38738-3. 

Take inspiration from this living room, where the dark and moody floral wallpaper - Resene Wallpaper Collection 38738-3 - sets a dramatic yet calming tone. The hints of dark blue and green mimic the depths of a forest, creating a lush, inviting atmosphere. The look is then accentuated with sophisticated furniture and vibrant touches, like the bright yellow chair, to add a pop of colour reminiscent of nature’s diversity.  

Try adding mid or dark toned wood stains on furniture and accessories to further this moody nature theme. Resene Colorwood tinted to shades like Resene Deep Oak, Resene Dark Oak, Resene Walnut and Resene Matai will do the trick.

 
Tranquil textures 


Mother Nature isn't perfect and it's often the irregularity of nature which makes a space feel relaxing. This rear textured wall and bedside stool are finished in Resene Sandtex Mediterranean effect tinted to Resene Concrete, with front wall in Resene Ravine. The floor is finished in ReseneColorwood Whitewash, large planter in Resene Half Tasman and vase inResene Ravine. Cushions from Warwick Fabrics, lampshade from Città, rug from The Ivy House. Project by Kate Alexander, image by Bryce Carleton. 

Bedrooms should be sanctuaries of peace, so it makes sense to explore a biophilic design in this space. This serene feature wall behind the bed brings a sense of calm and renewal. Explore different textures, like you would find in nature. We’ve chosen to paint a textured wall using Resene Sandtex in a neutral shade, and also incorporated some real plants. Add comfy bedding or nature inspired fabrics to take your design further, or try adding shiny accessories like our gold pendant to introduce a touch of elegance. 

Try other serene greens such as Resene Paris White, Resene Pumice, Resene Haven and Resene Spanish Green 


Golden embrace
 

Curl up and read a book under the golden canopy of Resene Wallpaper Collection 103809274.
Curl up and read a book under the golden canopy of Resene Wallpaper Collection 103809274. 

To make your living room cosy, yet vibrant, consider using warmer shades of reds, oranges, yellows and golds – these can be particularly inviting in winter when everything seems a bit grey and gloomy outside. The golden leaf pattern in Resene Wallpaper Collection 103809274 exudes warmth and comfort, with the neutral couch and orange and yellow pillows creating a balanced, inviting space – a bit like walking into a sunlit forest glade.  

Try using warmer shades that lift you up in the colder months, but also work all year round, such as Resene Cashmere, Resene Canterbury Clay, Resene Pendragon and Resene Stinger 


Forever foliage


Embrace the hues of nature with a complete palette of deep greens, teals and browns. Resene Wallpaper Collection 38720-2 will transport you straight into the forest where you can breathe with ease.  

Incorporating greenery, both real and depicted, is essential in biophilic design. In this room, the lower wall panelling is painted in a soothing blue-green shade, complemented by a vibrant green leafy wallpaper - Resene Wallpaper Collection 38720-2 - on the upper wall. Almost every element in this space reinforces the connection to nature, making the room feel fresh and alive.  

Try adding touches of shimmery shades from the Resene FX Metallic range to add luxury and refinement, and if you’re looking to replicate these gorgeous greens, try shades like Resene Sea Nymph, Resene Cutty Sark,Resene Stromboli and Resene Hallabaloo.  


Earthy
elegance

Welcome the softer side of nature with an office space like this, featuring Resene Wallpaper Collection A54801.
Welcome the softer side of nature with an office space like this, featuring Resene Wallpaper Collection A54801. 

Transform your home office or nook into a productive yet calming space with earthy tones. The gentle browns, light greens and neutrals in Resene Wallpaper Collection A54801 create a backdrop that is soothing and inspiring. Neutral walls and a light-stained wood table, combined with draping curtains, complete the look, ensuring this workspace promotes well-being and focus.  

Pair earthy toned designs like this with lighter neutrals in similar shades for a clean and harmonious look. Try shades like Resene Double Blanc, Resene Ash, Resene Quarter Cougar and Resene Tea 


 Our top tips for creating a biophilic design: 
  • Choose Resene paints and wallpapers in shades of green, blue, brown and other earth-inspired tones to mimic natural environments. 
  • Incorporate textures and patterns that reflect natural elements like leaves, flowers and water. The Resene Wallpaper Collection offers a wide range of designs that can bring these elements into your home. 
  • Use real plants to enhance the natural feel. They improve air quality and add a living, dynamic component to your décor. 
  • Maximise natural light in your rooms where possible, and choose a paint colour to create the warm, or cool, feeling you’re after. Have a read of Understanding warm and cool colours for some advice.  
  • Use decor items and furniture that complement your natural theme, such as wooden furniture, stone accents and natural fabrics. 
  • Bring in accents of timber and rejuvenate their colour with Resene Colorwood timber stain, or if you love the wood colour already, clear finish with Resene Aquaclear or Resene Woodsman Cedar Natural Wood Oil (walls) or Resene Qristal ClearFloor (floor) to protect it. 
  • Try taking your Resene wall paint colour up on to your ceiling to soften the edges of the room and create a more cocooning vibe. 


By embracing the biophilic design you can create a home that not only looks beautiful but also promotes your health and well-being. Whatever room you’re designing, let nature guide your choices and enjoy the serenity and balance it brings. 
 

For more inspiration, browse through Natural healing from the habitat plus – decorating and colour trends. To view the full range of Resene paints and wallpapers head in to your nearest Resene ColorShop or get colour help with the Ask a Resene Colour Expert service online.   

Published: 03 Jul 2024

Do you have a home full of wonderful Resene paint and colour? Send us some snaps by emailing [email protected].

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Resene Half Tasman

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Resene Paris White

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Resene Spanish Green

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Resene Canterbury Clay

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Resene Double Blanc

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Resene Quarter Cougar

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