Natural patterns in interior design have a great influence on the appearance of the space, but also on the well-being of people. Shapes, forms, and even colors can have a significant impact on our mental state, motivation, productivity, and emotions. This is precisely where the importance of natural patterns lies, and their influence on the mental and emotional aspects of our well-being is widely documented in psychological literature.
The physiological benefits of observing the natural environment have been extensively studied for some time. Research shows that being in nature has positive results, such as reduced stress, improved mood, and increased attention and cognitive functioning, among other beneficial effects. Through the natural patterns we can apply these benefits to interior design. Exposure to such surrounding can reduce stress levels in people by as much as 60%.
What are natural patterns?
Different shapes and forms appear in the natural environment, such as waves, clouds, stripes, and cracks, but also regular forms such as hexagons, flowers, or spirals. Mathematicians have been studying patterns for years in an attempt to understand the order in nature. Thus it was discovered that spirals are very often seen in nature. The very source of life, DNA is of course in the form of a spiral, and it is found in plants and animals in different sizes. It is no coincidence that spirals were used in many religious and sacred architectures.
It has also been proven that people respond better to organic patterns in art, architecture, and landscapes. In such built environments, we tend to feel less stressed and anxious, and more relaxed and engaged.
In design, incorporating organic and biomorphic patterns does not necessarily mean using actual living things, but instead seeks to mimic and reference nature. Forms and patterns should avoid the sharp edges of right angles and straight lines and instead, turn to a symmetrical moments, high density of curved edges and a high frequency of contrast changes.
This approach, especially in combination with plants in the interior, improves cognitive performance and at the same time helps reduce stress.
In addition to these patterns, the use of natural materials is also important. Human receptors have been proven to always prefer real over synthetic materials and can tell the difference between the two either through visual or tactile cues.
Wood, stone, and even dried grass in a harmonious combination with the interior leads to relaxation and restoration of our inner environment.
The influence of the natural environment on people is so significant that even the natural patterns and materials we use for interior design provide immense well-being.
By using the features found in living and natural forms, there are enormous opportunities to create healing built environments.
Image: Ivan Bandura
