The Nature of Luxury: How Biophilic Design is Revolutionising the Hotel Industry

At the NoVacancy Hotel + Accommodation Industry Expo , I kept hearing the same question during my speech: “Is biophilic design just about adding pots and hanging plants? Isn’t that a little cheesy?” Even A Room With A View Podcast hosts asked the same question. It’s a common misconception, and I understand why people might think that. When we talk about incorporating nature into spaces, it’s easy to imagine a hotel lobby overrun with greenery. But biophilic design is far more sophisticated than simply adding plants. It’s about creating environments that feel connected to nature, without necessarily looking like a jungle.

Biophilic design goes beyond the obvious. It taps into our deep, subconscious connection with nature, making us feel more relaxed, focused, and content. And this isn’t just a design trend—it’s backed by decades of research and principles, especially Stephen Kellert’s theory of biophilic design.

Kellert’s Theory: The Three Experiences of Nature

Kellert’s framework breaks biophilic design into three key experiences:

1. Direct Experience of Nature: This includes natural light, air, water, and greenery. But this doesn’t mean your hotel needs to be filled with hanging plants. It’s about thoughtfully bringing in natural elements like water features that provide calming sounds or windows that allow natural light to flood the space.
2. Indirect Experience of Nature: This involves using natural materials like stone, wood, and fabrics that evoke the feeling of nature. Instead of thinking “jungle,” think of natural textures and materials that are woven into the design to subtly create that connection—such as natural stone flooring or organic wood furniture.
3. Experience of Space and Place: This is about how spaces are designed to mimic the flow and feel of natural environments. We create open spaces, nooks for retreats, and views that integrate the outdoors. It’s not about plants everywhere—it’s about creating a space that feels like a sanctuary.

It’s About Neuroscience, Not Simplicity

Capella Hotels and Resorts

It’s not as simple as just adding natural light or using organic materials—there is extensive research and neuroscience behind these applications. Biophilic design taps into the reptilian brain, the most ancient part of our mind, which instinctively responds to natural elements. By carefully designing spaces that reflect the natural rhythms of the environment, we trigger deep, subconscious connections that reduce stress, enhance focus, and promote overall well-being. This isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating spaces that are scientifically proven to make people feel better.

Biophilic Design: Different Looks, Same Great Feel

Rixos Hotels

During my speech at NoVacancy, I shared several examples of biophilic design from across the globe. Whether it’s a minimalist urban hotel in Tokyo, a tropical resort in Bali, or a luxurious lodge in Switzerland, biophilic design can look very different from project to project. The key is that no matter how it looks, the feel is always right—it’s about creating spaces that make people feel connected to nature, no matter where they are.

I’ll include some photos of projects we’ve worked on to illustrate how diverse biophilic design can be, yet how each space still maintains a sense of calm and balance.

The Profitability of Biophilic Design

Hilton Hotels & Resorts

Beyond the feel, biophilic design is also profitable. Research by Terrapin Bright Green shows that hotels that incorporate natural elements see higher occupancy rates, greater guest satisfaction, and increased guest loyalty. Natural light, greenery, and even water features have been shown to boost mood, reduce stress, and keep guests coming back.

Moreover, biophilic design can actually reduce operational costs. By integrating natural light, hotels can reduce the need for artificial lighting and lower energy bills. And elements like better ventilation systems that use fresh air not only make guests feel better—they also reduce costs over time. It’s a win-win for both hotels and their guests.

The Swiss Army Knife Approach

Swissotel Purchasing

So, how can hotels maximise the benefits of biophilic design? This is where my companies, Boxareno-custom modular Constructions and Cocoplum-wellness Design, come in. We offer a Swiss Army knife approach to hotel construction and design. Whether it’s modular construction, custom fit-outs, or bespoke furniture manufacturing, we handle every part of the process. We even source natural stone from our own mine and manufacture everything in-house, from tiles to metal fabrication. This allows us to deliver biophilic design elements efficiently and affordably, cutting out the middleman and reducing costs for hotels.

By controlling every aspect of production with seven factories working exclusively on our projects, we can customise and optimise each design to fit your vision, making biophilic design not only beautiful and beneficial but also cost-effective.

Get in Touch

If you’d like to learn more about how biophilic design can transform your hotel and make it more profitable, feel free to reach out to me directly at [email protected]. I’d be happy to discuss how we can help bring your next project to life.

#BiophilicDesign #HotelDesign #SustainableDesign #ModularConstruction #WellnessDesign #HospitalityIndustry #HotelInnovation #ArchitectureAndDesign