The Evolution of Biophilic Design: Past, Present, and Future

Although the term "biophilic design" was coined only in recent decades, its essence has long existed in the architecture of ancient cultures. In centuries past, buildings were conceived not in isolation, but in harmony with the environment. Roman villas featured open-air courtyards bursting with greenery. Traditional Japanese homes blurred the line between indoors and out through sliding doors and garden views. Islamic architecture reflected nature’s geometry with intricate, repeating patterns that mirrored the order of leaves, flowers, and stars. In these early expressions, nature was not decorative, it was foundational.

However, as industrialization gained momentum, this balance began to shift. The architecture of the 19th and 20th centuries often favored steel, glass, and concrete over natural materials. The emphasis turned toward efficiency, scale, and uniformity, distancing people from the organic forms and sensory experiences of the outdoors. Nature became something to be visited on weekends, rather than an integrated part of daily life.

The resurgence of biophilic design in the modern era reflects a growing desire to correct this disconnection. In the early 2000s, researchers and designers began to understand the measurable benefits of nature-integrated spaces. From lowered stress levels and improved cognitive function to greater creativity and well-being, the evidence became impossible to ignore. Today, biophilic design is a global movement that extends far beyond potted plants and green walls. It asks us to reimagine the way we shape interiors, incorporating natural light, textures that feel alive, spatial layouts that mimic ecosystems, and materials that engage our senses.

At Naturalist, we approach biophilic design not as a feature, but as a foundation. Our preserved moss walls offer a way to bring the beauty of nature indoors without the maintenance of living systems. We use organic forms, eco-conscious materials, and a deep respect for artistry to create immersive environments that spark calm, creativity, and connection. Whether we’re designing for hospitality, wellness, or workplace interiors, our goal is to reintroduce nature as a quiet, grounding presence in people’s lives.

Looking to the future, biophilic design is poised to move from restorative to regenerative. Technology will likely play a role in shaping this future, allowing for dynamic lighting systems that mimic the rhythms of sunlight, or adaptive greenery that responds to environmental cues. Sustainability will move from an option to an imperative, with materials that not only reduce harm but actively restore ecosystems. Cultural narratives will become more prominent as designers turn to local traditions, indigenous knowledge, and regional landscapes to inform their work. And as we lean further into multisensory design, biophilic spaces will evolve into immersive environments that speak not just to the eye, but to the body and mind as a whole.

Ultimately, the evolution of biophilic design tells a larger story about the human desire to belong, not only in buildings, but in the world around us. As the pace of life accelerates and cities become denser, our need for stillness, connection, and beauty becomes even more urgent. Biophilic design meets that need with grace and intelligence. It reminds us that nature doesn’t have to be far away—it can live on our walls, shape our spaces, and bring us back to ourselves.