In the heart of a busy city like Dubai, it’s easy to feel disconnected from nature. That’s where biophilic design apartment tips come into play. Whether you’re living in a sleek high-rise or a cozy urban loft, bringing elements of nature into your home can completely transform the atmosphere.
At Sierra Contracting, we believe great design should not only look good but also feel good—and biophilic design is the perfect bridge between aesthetics and well-being. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to create nature-inspired interiors using indoor plants, natural materials, and more, even in the most compact apartment.
What Is Biophilic Design?
Before we dive into the “how,” let’s understand the “what.”
Biophilic design is an approach that connects people with nature through design and architecture. It’s not just about tossing a few potted plants into a room—it’s about creating a holistic environment that enhances wellness, reduces stress, and increases happiness by embracing the natural world.
Why Biophilic Design Works
Studies have shown that adding natural elements into living spaces can:
- Improve mood and concentration
- Reduce anxiety and stress levels
- Enhance creativity and productivity
- Support better air quality and sleep
This makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to refresh their apartment and lifestyle.
For an in-depth look, check out our guide on Biophilic Interior Design: Bringing Nature Indoors.
Biophilic Design Apartment Tips: Where to Begin
Let’s break it down into manageable steps. Here are our top biophilic design apartment tips to help you bring nature into your everyday life—even if you’re living in a studio.
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Use Indoor Plants Strategically
A Breath of Fresh Air
Nothing says “nature” like plants. But the key is choosing the right indoor plants that thrive in apartment settings.
Easy-to-maintain plants for apartments:
- Snake Plant
- Pothos
- Peace Lily
- ZZ Plant
- Spider Plant
Place them in areas that receive natural light or use artificial grow lights where sunlight is limited.
Tip:
Go vertical! Use hanging planters, wall-mounted pots, or ladder shelves to conserve floor space while adding lush greenery.
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Choose Natural Materials Over Synthetic
Bringing nature indoors isn’t just about live plants—natural materials make a huge difference in how your space feels.
Try incorporating:
- Wooden furniture or accents (oak, walnut, teak)
- Linen and cotton textiles (sofas, bedding, curtains)
- Rattan or jute rugs
- Clay, stone, or terracotta accessories
These materials introduce texture and warmth, reinforcing that natural vibe without overwhelming the room.
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Maximize Natural Light
Let the Sunshine In
Natural light is a cornerstone of biophilic design. Sunlight not only highlights textures and greenery but also helps regulate your circadian rhythm, making you feel more balanced and awake.
Tips to boost natural light:
- Use sheer or light-colored curtains
- Add mirrors to reflect light deeper into the room
- Keep windowsills clear of clutter
If you’re low on sunlight, consider layering in warm white lighting to mimic daylight and enhance your nature-inspired interiors.
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Bring in Nature-Inspired Art and Decor
Can’t build a living wall or have large potted trees? No problem. You can still channel nature-inspired interiors through visual elements.
Decor Ideas:
- Botanical prints or artwork
- Nature photography
- Earth-toned cushions, throws, or vases
- Wooden picture frames or art made from natural fibers
Keep it subtle but consistent—stick with earthy palettes like greens, browns, beiges, and terracottas to unify the look.
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Create a Sensory Experience
Biophilic design is multi-sensory. Your space should not only look natural—it should feel and smell that way too.
Tactile Elements
Introduce variety through:
- Textured cushions
- Raw wood furniture
- Soft wool or shag rugs
These tactile elements make a space feel more welcoming and immersive.
Natural Scents
Use essential oil diffusers with eucalyptus, lavender, or cedar to add a calming layer to the space.
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Design Your Layout with Nature in Mind
Flow Matters
A biophilic apartment should have a sense of natural flow and calm. This means decluttering, using open layouts where possible, and allowing each element space to breathe.
Bonus tip: Place seating areas near windows or plants to subconsciously connect yourself with the natural world, even when indoors.
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Add a Water Feature (Yes, Even in an Apartment!)
Small indoor fountains or tabletop water features can add soothing soundscapes to your home. This mimics the relaxing sounds of nature, turning your living room into a mini-retreat.
The trick? Choose small, plug-and-play models designed for tabletops or corner spaces. Low-maintenance and high impact!
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Go for Biophilic Colors
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of color psychology. Earth-inspired palettes can immediately make your space feel grounded and inviting.
Try these tones:
- Soft sage or moss green
- Sand beige
- Sky blue
- Terracotta or clay
- Charcoal or stone grey
You can incorporate these through paint, upholstery, or even kitchenware!
Final Thoughts: Urban Living Meets Natural Calm
Designing a biophilic apartment is all about balance. It’s about being thoughtful with your layout, materials, and visual choices to reflect the calming effects of nature—even when you’re living in the middle of the city.
Here at Sierra Contracting, we help Dubai residents transform urban interiors into cozy, inspiring spaces using the power of biophilic design. Whether it’s a single-room refresh or a complete renovation, we’ll help you create a home that feels more alive—because nature belongs everywhere, even in your apartment.
Need help bringing nature indoors?
Explore more on Biophilic Interior Design: Bringing Nature Indoors or contact Sierra Contracting for personalized design solutions.
