Picture a tranquil vacation. What do you see? I'll wager a guess that your daydream involves the great outdoors in some way. Be it sandy toes with waves gently lapping at your feet, or standing amidst towering pines in the mountains, the connection between relaxation and nature is undeniably profound. Enter biophilic design - a concept that's not just a passing trend, but a powerful tool to create unforgettable guest experiences. By incorporating elements of nature into your space, you can create a serene, rejuvenating environment that will have guests raving and rebooking. Let's dive into how biophilic design can transform your vacation rental.
What is Biophilic Design?
Biophilic design is like a breath of fresh air, literally. This innovative approach is all about reconnecting us with nature, even while we're indoors. It's not just about aesthetics, either. The idea is rooted in our natural affinity for the great outdoors and the belief that this connection can actually boost our mood, productivity, and overall zest for life. Who knew interior design could be so... well, outdoorsy?
Why Use Biophilic Design in Vacation Rentals?
1. Creates a Unique Experience:
In a sea of cookie-cutter accommodations, a space that brings nature indoors stands out. In fact, an analysis done by Human Spaces found that “guest reviews of biophilic hotels mention “experience” twice as often as reviews of conventional hotels.” Most short term rental owners would agree that creating an experience is a desirable way to attract attention and garner more reviews. Biophilic design is a sure-fire way to do just that.
2. Reduces Stress:
Natural elements have been shown to lower cortisol levels, helping your guests truly unwind. Who wouldn't feel at ease imagining themselves lounging on a hammock by the sea? Biophilic design can evoke that same sense of relaxation within your space.
3. Improves Air Quality:
Science tells us that plants naturally remove carbon dioxide from the air and replenish the oxygen so it should come as no surprise that live plants can naturally purify the air. Incorporating biophilic elements such as live plants into the home are not only mentally beneficial, but physically beneficial as well.
4. Boosts Mood:
Exposure to nature, even indoors, can increase feelings of happiness and contentment. According to global architect and design firm Gensler, “Vegetated spaces can improve an individual’s self-esteem and mood, while the presence of water can have a relaxing effect.” Furthermore these effects have been shown to take place in as little as 5 minutes. The power of biophilic design is in it’s quick and effective mood boost - as if being on a vacation wasn’t mood boosting enough!
5. Enhances Instagram-ability:
Biophilic designs are inherently photogenic, encouraging guests to share their stay on social media. Even something as simple as mentioning nearby landmarks in your listing can help increase your reach, so imagine what biophilic design can do for amplification of your space and thus your bookings.
Implementing Biophilic Design in Your Vacation Rental
1. Incorporate Live Plants:
From small potted herbs in the kitchen to large statement plants in living areas, greenery is a must. There are several plants in various sizes that can thrive indoors with very little care and adding a quick “water plants” to housekeeping tasks is easy to do.
2. Use Natural Materials:
Opt for wood, stone, and other natural textures in your furnishings and decor. Not only are these a way to incorporate biophilic design, but is just good design in general to layer materials and natural textures.
3. Maximize Natural Light:
According to the biophilic design research carried out by Human Spaces, the number one element requested in the work space is natural light. While your guests may or may not be working in your space, the same principles can be applied to homes. Begin by removing heavy curtains and opting for sheer or adjustable window treatments that let the sunshine in. We recommend layering shades and light curtains both for the depth of design it adds to the space as well as the ability to filter the light as needed.
4. Install a Living Wall:
A vertical garden can be a stunning focal point in any indoor or outdoor room and is often easy to maintain if done correctly. It makes for a stunning and inviting space perfect for amplifying your space on social media or within your guest’s spheres of influence.
5. Add Water Features:
The sound of flowing water can create a calming atmosphere.The goal is to create a multi-sensory experience that helps guests feel connected to nature and promotes relaxation. Consider a small indoor fountain or water wall: a well-chosen water feature can become a talking point for your rental and a key factor in those five-star reviews!
6. Use Nature-Inspired Patterns:
Incorporate leaf prints, floral patterns, or nature-inspired artwork. Beware of using this instead of live plants as it is meant to complement biophilic design, not entirely replace it.
7. Create Outdoor Living Spaces:
Blur the lines between indoors and outdoors with a well-designed patio or balcony. Extending the living spaces into these areas not only increases seating options, but creates more space and makes your rental feel more live-able.
8. Choose Earth Tones:
Use a color palette inspired by nature - think greens, browns, and blues. And don’t forget to incorporate the desert where appropriate! According to Gensler, “desert species and terrain can be equally important in supporting a biophilic connection to place.”
9. Bring in Natural Scents:
Go for nature-inspired essential oils or reed diffusers. Choose light, pleasing scents that won't overpower your guests. Keep it harmonious by using matching scents, or keep it simple with a single scent throughout!
10, Add Tactile Elements:
Biophilic design incorporates all the senses including touch, which is why we encourage using different textures that mimic nature, like rough stone or smooth wood. Feeling these textures beneath your fingers or even feet have been shown to have positive neurological benefits as well.
Conclusion
Biophilic design is more than just a trend - it's a way to create spaces that resonate with our innate connection to nature. By incorporating these elements into your vacation rental, you're not just decorating; you're creating an experience. You're offering your guests a chance to reconnect with nature, even in the heart of a busy city.
It's crucial to understand that design, especially in the context of vacation rentals, goes far beyond selecting pretty furniture or eye-catching colors. Doctor Claudia Miller of the University of Texas even says "Architects and designers have a greater ability to improve public health than medical professionals" (Metropolis). As designers, we delve deep into the psychology of spaces, considering how each element affects mood, behavior, and overall well-being. We think about flow, functionality, and the subtle ways that design can enhance a guest's experience.
"Architects and designers have a greater ability to improve public health than medical professionals." -Dr. Claudia Miller, University of Texas
When we implement biophilic design, we're not just making a space look good - we're considering how natural elements can reduce stress, improve air quality, and create a sense of harmony. We're thinking about the sensory experience: the feel of natural textures, the sound of water features, the scent of essential oils, and the visual impact of greenery and natural light.
This holistic approach to design is what sets professional interior design apart. We're not just asking "What works in this space?" but "How can this space work to improve the guest's experience, comfort, and enjoyment?" It's this level of consideration that can transform a simple stay into an unforgettable experience.
Remember, the goal isn't to turn your rental into a greenhouse, but to thoughtfully incorporate natural elements that enhance the space and the guest experience. Start small if you need to - even adding a few plants and natural textures can make a big difference.
Cheers,
Ready to bring the outdoors in and see your bookings soar?
Let's chat about how we can infuse your vacation rental with the beauty
and benefits of biophilic design- creating a space that doesn't just look good, but feels good and functions beautifully for your guests.
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