If I were to ask you to close your eyes right now and place yourself in your mind’s eye, in a setting you find calm and peaceful – where would you be? Many of us would imagine ourselves surrounded by nature – in a lush woodland, on a sandy beach with the sound of waves gently crashing onto shore, or lying back in the warmth of the sun in a fragrant meadow. Very few would picture a cityscape, an office, or a local high-street.

The instinctual automatic intake of breath upon looking out over a grand vista, or the mental clarity that can reside as you ramble into the countryside, even for the briefest of moments, are examples of biophilia.

Biophilia, first educated by Edward Osborne Wilson in his book “Biophilia” in 1984, is the idea that humans are innately drawn to connection with nature.

Research has shown that outdoor settings feel intuitively good and can have profound healing effects on our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This research became the basis of my Masters Degree and the intricate connection to the design of wellness spaces.

Studies have demonstrated that being in nature can increase the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter responsible for regulating mood, and lower levels of cortisol, a hormone associated with stress. When enveloped with spa treatments, these benefits can be truly powerful.

Even if you can’t get outside, research suggests that merely looking at the natural world can have health-boosting benefits. Patients recovering from surgery with a window view of nature have faster recovery rates than those with a blocked view of the outdoors. Even in hospital rooms containing plants, patients recorded lower blood pressure, heart rate, and anxiety levels.

Whether observing a delicate flower, listening to the gentle breeze, or feeling the earth beneath our feet, nature encourages us to slow down, embrace stillness, and forge a deeper connection with ourselves and our environment.

One possible explanation for this is that our man-made built environment and objects tend to be created with straight edges and right angles. In contrast, the natural world exhibits repeating patterns called fractals, which the human brain seems to find soothing. Studies suggest that looking at fractals can reduce stress by up to 60%.

Simply spending time in nature has also been linked to improved sleep patterns. Sunlight helps to calibrate our circadian rhythm, our natural sleep/wake cycle. Absorbing natural light in the morning can keep our energy levels stable throughout the day, while settling into dusk with the setting sun prepares our bodies and minds for sleep.

Our minds are often overstimulated, and our senses are overloaded with fast-moving images, sounds, and information. Nature offers a much-needed respite, allowing our minds to unwind and slow down.

It is this quiet disconnection from our hurried everyday lives that is at the heart of Folde + Sonder. Offering time in captivating natural surroundings, Folde + Sonder’s grounding treatments provide permission for stillness and quiet – a space for clarity.

With the benefits of biophilia undeniable, it was integral that Folde + Sonder’s Studio design and aesthetic provide not only a retreat and backdrop to quietly view the landscape beyond but to bring in biophilic design solutions to calm and connect with the user.

The choice of natural materials such as timber and earthy colors establishes a harmonious relationship with the surrounding landscape, blurring the boundaries between indoors and outdoors. The use of internal arches adds a sense of rhythm and flow to the space, reminiscent of organic forms found in nature.

Panoramic windows play a crucial role in biophilic design, facilitating a strong connection with the natural world outside. By incorporating framed views into the Studio’s design, Folde + Sonder provides guests with uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape, allowing them to immerse themselves fully in the beauty of their surroundings.

These windows not only frame picturesque views but also flood the interior space with natural light, creating a bright and airy atmosphere that promotes a sense of well-being. This influx of daylight not only reduces the need for artificial lighting but also enhances the mood and productivity of all individuals.

Moreover, they serve as a visual link between the indoors and outdoors, blurring the boundaries between the built environment and nature. This seamless integration allows guests to feel connected to the natural world at all times, fostering a deep sense of calm and relaxation.

By embracing biophilic design principles, Folde + Sonder not only creates a visually stunning environment but also cultivates a sense of wellbeing and serenity for guests. This thoughtful approach to design serves as a reminder of the intrinsic relationship and benefits between humans and nature.