Biophilic Design in Spokane Homes: Bringing the Outdoors In

Spokane’s natural beauty is more than just scenery—it’s a way of life. Whether the morning mist rolls off the South Hill or the golden afternoon light filters through evergreens, our region’s landscape offers endless inspiration for bringing nature into our homes. This connection to the outdoors can transform interior spaces, making them beautiful, healthier, calmer, and more vibrant.

Biophilic design, a concept rooted in the idea that humans thrive when connected to nature, bridges the gap between the indoors and the outdoors. Here’s how Spokane homeowners can embrace this design philosophy to create modern, naturally inspired homes.

Practical Ways to Integrate Biophilic Design

1. Maximize Natural Light

Spokane’s sunny summers and crisp winters make light a crucial design element. Use large windows, skylights, or strategically placed mirrors to bring in as much daylight as possible. South-facing windows help maximize light exposure during shorter winter days.

2. Bring Plants Indoors

Houseplants like ferns, snake plants, and fiddle-leaf figs thrive indoors and provide natural air filtration. Consider incorporating evergreens like small potted cedars or pines for a Spokane-inspired touch.

Native Plant Spotlight: Spokane’s native plants, such as dwarf Oregon grape and Western sword fern, are hardy, low-maintenance choices that thrive in our climate. These plants not only look beautiful but also support local biodiversity.

3. Simple DIY Biophilic Projects

Biophilic design doesn’t have to be expensive or complex. Here are a few easy projects to get started:

• Create a small indoor herb garden on your kitchen windowsill.

• Repurpose wooden pallets into vertical plant walls for outdoor spaces.

• Build a tabletop water fountain using natural stones and a small pump for a calming effect.

4. Create Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Transitions

Blurring the line between indoors and outdoors creates a flow of energy and space. Folding glass doors (like NanaWalls) or covered patios allow for an open-air connection during Spokane’s warmer months. Add cozy natural materials—wooden furniture, stone accents, or soft textiles like linen and wool—to maintain that organic vibe.

5. Add Natural Sounds

Nature’s sounds are often overlooked in design but can make a significant impact. Just as the rustling maple leaves in Spokane’s South Hill create a soothing symphony, you can strategically place indoor plants near breezy windows to invite subtle natural sounds. Alternatively, indoor water features can mimic the calming flow of a nearby stream or waterfall.

6. Integrate Smart Technology

Modern technology can effortlessly complement biophilic design. Automated blinds can optimize natural light throughout the day, while plant care monitors track soil moisture and light levels to keep greenery thriving. Intelligent lighting systems can mimic natural sunlight patterns, enhancing your connection to nature even after dark.

Adapting Biophilic Design for Spokane’s Seasons

One of the unique challenges—and opportunities—of implementing biophilic design in Spokane is dealing with our distinct seasonal changes.

Winter: Snowy winters may seem stark, but evergreen indoor plants and warm natural materials like cedar or reclaimed wood maintain a cozy connection to nature. Layering natural textures—like wool throws and stone decor—adds warmth and visual depth.

Spring and Summer: Maximize Spokane’s gorgeous warmer seasons by incorporating seasonal flowers, rotating indoor plants, or extending living spaces outdoors. NanaWall-style folding glass doors or covered patios create flexible spaces that evolve with the weather.

Fall: As colors change outside, consider complementing the palette indoors with earth tones in decor, such as clay pots, wooden shelving, or copper accents.

By adapting your home to Spokane’s seasonal shifts, you ensure the connection to nature is alive and vibrant all year.

The Science Behind Biophilic Design

Biophilic design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s backed by science. Studies have shown that incorporating natural elements in living spaces can:

Reduce stress and anxiety: Natural elements trigger the brain’s relaxation response, counteracting the effects of urban stressors.

Boost productivity and creativity: Having greenery or natural light in your workspace can increase focus and innovation for those working from home.

Improve air quality: Plants act as natural air purifiers, reducing indoor pollutants.

Enhance physical and mental health: Exposure to natural elements indoors supports circadian rhythms, which regulate sleep and energy levels.

This is an opportunity for Spokane homeowners to create homes that look good and support overall wellness.

Common Challenges and Solutions

While biophilic design is transformative, it does come with some challenges—especially in regions like Spokane. Here’s how to overcome common barriers:

Limited winter light: Use mirrors and reflective surfaces to amplify natural light during shorter days. Artificial grow lights can also support indoor plants.

Temperature fluctuations: Avoid placing plants near drafty windows during winter or hot spots in summer. Use insulated window treatments to stabilize indoor temperatures.

Balancing efficiency with natural materials: While wood and stone add natural beauty, ensure they’re used sustainably and paired with modern insulation and energy-efficient solutions.

By tackling these challenges head-on, you can enjoy a biophilic design that works year-round.

In Spokane, where we experience the drama of all four seasons, biophilic design isn’t just about bringing nature inside—it’s about creating spaces that adapt to our climate while keeping us connected to the beauty we cherish. From the gentle rustling of indoor plants to the soft light filtering through large windows, this design philosophy turns homes into living, breathing sanctuaries. Contact Wall & Co. today to get on our schedule this season!

Want to learn even more about biophilic design? Head over to Thermory.

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