Our challenging times have propelled new discussions about how to incorporate wellness into home design, and bringing greenery indoors continues to be an important part of the conversation. A key aspect of biophilic design, a direct connection with nature helps us stay healthy, relaxed, and focused.

In 1984, Harvard naturalist Edward Wilson published Biophilia, meaning “love of life,” in which he described humans’ innate connection with nature and our tendency to suffer in hermetic, urban environments where it’s largely absent. Biophilic design focuses not only on plant life, but also daylight, ventilation, water, and natural materials. Together, these elements can increase our immunity, boost natural circadian rhythms, regulate temperature, and inspire a sense of tranquility. The biophilic homes below incorporate these principles to promote balanced, peaceful living.

Living Grid House by L Architects

House in Kyoto by 07Beach

Since the compact site and programming left little room for a backyard garden, the living area was developed as an interior courtyard situated around an indoor ficus tree. The house also features plenty of Hinoki wood, which is soft to walk on and has good heat insulation properties." layout="" credit="Yosuke Otake" photoUserId=""/>

Casa de Vidro by Lina Bo Bardi

Am House by AmDesign Architects, Time Architects, and CTA | Creative Architect

Combining neutral tones, natural materials, and indoor/outdoor living, Am House is a reprieve from the bustle of Ho Chi Minh City. A moat with koi fish cools the interiors, and the thatched roof reduces solar heat gain." layout="wide" credit="Hiroyuki Oki" photoUserId=""/>

El Camarin by IR Aquitectura

Manhattan Town House by Lubrano Ciaverra Architects

Duplex in Venice by Don Dimster

Island Bay House by Andrew Simpson

250-Year-Old Stone House by Henkin Shavit Architecture

Melbourne Home by Jost Architects

Sky Pool House by Guz Architects

Presidio Residence by Geremia Design

Jacek Perkowski’s House by KWK Promes

Heine Residence by Fabian and Dorothee Heine

Lantern House in Timmins + Whyte

Shell House by Tono Mirai

Brillhart House by Brillhart Architecture

Compound House by Linghao Architects

Dwell Home Venice by Sebastian Mariscal

Tom Lloyd-Butler’s Beach House by Adlin Darling Design

Related Reading: Ask an Expert: What Is Biophilia, Really?