Nature Is Your Friend In A New Kitchen Design
Want a kitchen that feels like a breath of fresh air? We’d argue that the principles of biophilic design are an important thing to consider, especially in a city like Ottawa that experiences all 4 seasons – particularly winter. It brings nature indoors, to create a space that’s calming, functional, and stylish. In a kitchen, it creates a serene, productive space by incorporating elements like wood, stone, or plants. Studies show biophilic spaces reduce stress by 15-30% (Metropolis) and improve air quality. It can also help increase your property value.
How do you do it, though? Let’s examine.
1. Maximize Natural Light
Flood your kitchen with sunlight using large windows or skylights. In condos, where space is tight, opt for glass doors or reflective surfaces to amplify light. Natural light cuts energy costs by 10-20% (HGTV) and brightens your mood.
2. Add Greenery
Incorporate plants like herbs (basil, mint) or succulents on countertops or vertical gardens. A small herb wall improves air quality by 20-50% (Livingetc) and adds flavor to your cooking.
3. Use Natural Materials
Choose wood cabinets, real wood flooring, or natural stone countertops like granite, marble, or quartzite. Consider natural stone backsplashes and wall accents. Even a nice waterfall edge on an island can be a biophilic touch when done the right way.
4. Embrace Organic Patterns
Add biomorphic shapes—think leaf-like tiles or curved islands—to mimic nature. Pulls and knobs are a great place to incorporate these too. The Autore Collection by Richelieu features some gorgeous selections that fit into this concept. Earthy tones (greens, browns) or natural textures like Vermont Danby Marble create a cohesive, calming vibe, ideal for Ottawa’s urban aesthetic. Another tip – if you’re incorporating natural stone into your kitchen based on the aforementioned suggestion, do a vein match for your surfaces. Vein matching is a technique used in stone fabrication to align the natural veins of stone slabs so that the pattern appears seamless across seams when multiple pieces are joined. This creates a cohesive and visually striking effect, especially in materials with strong veining patterns.
5. Create Open, Inviting Spaces
To create an open design plan that incorporates biophilic design, focus on blending spaciousness with natural elements to foster a seamless connection to nature. Start by removing non-load-bearing walls to craft an airy, open-plan layout that maximizes natural light through large windows or sliding glass doors, offering views of outdoor spaces like a balcony or park. Ensure a prospect and refuge balance by pairing an expansive kitchen island with cozy nooks, like a cushioned bench. Add a vertical herb garden or potted plants to enhance air quality and greenery, while using biomorphic patterns in tiles or curved furniture to mimic nature’s forms.
Biophilic design is gaining popularity, with 72% of respondents to the NKBA’s 2025 Trends Report noting that homeowners are seeking kitchens that better connect with the outdoors. Incorporating these principles into your new kitchen design is a transformative choice that harmonizes style, wellness, and sustainability.
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