Science has a wonderful way of confirming what we inherently know. Our ability to be outside with nature, whether it’s as simple as feeling the earth between our fingers or windswept walks through dramatic landscapes, improves our mental wellbeing.
The benefits range from stress reduction, emotional regulation, cognitive function, boosted immune system and improved sleep. Why? It’s based on what is called Biophilia Hypothesis which suggests that as humans we have an innate, biologically driven need to be connected with plants, animals and the naturalistic environments that we evolved from throughout human evolution.
Whether someone is classified as neurodivergent or not, we know that a taking time out, to sit outside in greenery, or to take a walk, leaves us in a calmer and more grounded state.
Herein lies our challenge though, over the last five decades the design or our workplaces and homes have been driven by practicality needs and the availability of cost-effective materials, in some cases moving us completely away from our connections with nature. How do we overcome this challenge?
Biophilic design
From the Biophilia Hypothesis, Biophilic design has emerged within Architecture and Interior Design. Biophilic design is rooted in recreating our connection with nature indoors thought a variety of approaches and applications, from the use of natural resources (light, water, ventilation), through to the use of natural materials, colours, textures and patterns.
Designing for neurodiversity
Whilst we may all benefit from Biophilic design in our homes, social spaces and workplaces, the benefits are amplified for those with neurodivergences, offering a wide range of ways to introduce spaces that meet the needs of those individuals, aiding them to feel safer, calmer and more at peace with the world around them.
Of course, the key here is that neurodivergent individuals will each have their own preferences and aversions, so it is important (depending on the space to be designed) to either consult with the individual or their guardians, or to provide simple choices in environments, so an individual may select the one that delivers what they crave.
Space
When looking at the overall space consider that individuals may feel more comfortable in open spaces or in an enclosed place where they can escape to.
To create an illusion of bigger space:
- Declutter using tailored storage
- Allow as much natural light, with the ability to regulate it. Keep drapery to simplistic sleek designs and consider the use of sheers to filter bright sunlight
- Consider the use of wall mounted antiqued mirrors to help amplify the illusion, although never place mirrors in direct sunlight due to fire risk
- Use lighter neutral colours, in matt finishes
- Avoid high shine surfaces
- For flooring, opt for smoother finishes such as natural wood
- Adding a few larger plants softens the edges
A place to escape:
- Supply a range of seating options and if possible a place to lie down, with a variety of different textured cushions and throws
- Ensure daylight can be filtered or removed using sheers and black out drapery.
- Provide a range of individually controlled ambient lighting sources, using warm toned bulbs
- Sound proofing can be achieved through a range of attractive wall coverings and surface finishes.
- Provide a large rug or carpeted flooring to help soften noise.
- Consider providing a way to play soothing nature inspired music options (water, birdsong etc).
- It is possible to configure movement sensors within a space that trigger signage showing the space is occupied
Light, colours and noise
These three things may be the biggest factors to consider and are the most common cause of overwhelm for neurodivergent people.
Light
- Select a range of lighting sources, independently controlled and where possible dimmable
- Balance choices between task (practical), ambient (mood) and accent (pinpoint) lighting, separately controlled for the natural zones in the space
- Avoid fluorescent lighting and look for bulbs that have a Kelvin (warmth) range of between 2000 to 4000 (warm tinted) to create cosy spaces, with some practical 5000-6000 Kelvins for activities requiring brighter illumination
Colour
- Colour has a phycology impact, for example yellow used sparingly may induce feelings of positivity and optimism, but too much yellow may induce anxiety and fear
- Consider mid-neutrals, soft blues and soft greens which most closely imitate nature.
- Avoid bright hues and instead opt for tones where the pure colour is mixed with grey. This produces a soft colour that is peaceful and naturalistic
- Keep the overall palette relatively simplistic avoiding lots of colour combinations, for a cohesive and visually calming scheme
- Naturalistic flooring compliments this well, whether it’s wood, stone or carpeted in fibres reminiscent of nature. This could include wool, or even modern PET carpet that mimics sisal but with a softer texture
Noise
- Assess the wider location, if it is in a busy town or with passing traffic, consider triple glazing
- Research acoustic panelling, these range in design and price from simple easy to install slatted panels to beautiful organically textured materials made from a variety of bi-products from other industries (such as alpine meadow flowers). Large acoustic pictures are also a practical solution
- Upholstered furniture and soft furnishings help to absorb noise along with soft floor coverings
Patterns and textures
- Patterns should be soft, inspired from nature. Delicate and subtle are best and kept to just a few objects or soft furnishings within a space
- Consider texture as well, whether this is through textured wall coverings, upholstery, cushions, throws and rugs, ideally layering textures for visual interest but also to allow an individual choice in what they wish to use
- If practical, the use of a few larger houseplants adds the finishing touch
Safety
The final and most important aspect to consider is safety, especially for individuals who experience differences in coordination or mobility. This ranges from furniture types, soft flooring, reduction in sharp corners or items hung on walls, even down to the pull chains used for window blinds. Always ask regarding child safety credentials, whatever the age of the future occupants.
Biophilic design wrapped up
In summary, beautiful and peaceful spaces are easily achieved by using the textures, materials, colours and patterns that we come across frequently, when outside with nature. Stay true to these principles and you will emerge with a biophilic design, reconnecting the occupants with their evolutionary roots and grounding them within a peaceful environment.
Written by Samantha Fleming
Samantha Fleming Interiors Ltd – Sustainable nature inspired design
#birdseyeviewondesign
samanthafleming.co.uk
About Samantha
Samantha is the founder of Samantha Fleming Interiors Ltd, where she brings her passion for sustainable, nature-inspired design into homes, workplaces and community spaces. With a focus on wellbeing and connection to the natural world, her work blends creativity, functionality and environmental responsibility. Samantha’s approach is rooted in the belief that thoughtful design has the power to calm, restore and uplift.
If you’d like to learn more about how we support neurodivergent individuals and their families, get in touch – we’d love to hear from you.