designing a biophilic bathroom to connect your space with nature

what is a biophilic bathroom?

a biophilic bathroom is a design concept that integrates natural elements to create a soothing, nature-inspired living space that promotes well-being. this style emphasizes the use of materials like natural stone, wood and lush greenery, as well as ample natural light to mimic the feel of an outdoor oasis.

elements such as living walls, skylights, earthy colors and flowing water features help connect the bathroom with nature, making it a restorative, refreshing environment. biophilic design in the bathroom aims to reduce stress, improve mood and enhance the overall sensory experience by bringing the calming presence of the outdoors inside.

key elements of biophilic bathroom design

natural elements

natural elements play a vital role in creating a calming, earthy atmosphere that feels connected to the outdoors. key materials like wood, stone (or even brick) and bamboo bring warmth and texture to the space, while live plants add vibrancy, can help purify the air and introduce a refreshing green palette.

incorporating natural light through windows, skylights or frosted glass allows sunlight to fill the room, enhancing mood and creating an open, airy feel. water features, such as a rainfall shower or a small indoor fountain, can add soothing sounds and mimic the peaceful ambiance of nature. together, these natural elements transform the bathroom into a tranquil sanctuary, offering a sensory escape and a daily connection to nature.

organic forms

organic forms are a key element in biophilic bathroom design, bringing the fluid shapes and gentle curves of nature into the space. unlike rigid, geometric lines, organic shapes create a softer, more inviting atmosphere that mimics the natural world.

think of curved bathtubs, rounded vessel sinks or mirrors with asymmetrical, freeform edges that echo the feel of stones and water-worn pebbles. using accessories like smooth river rocks, driftwood accents or undulating tile patterns or tiles with organic shape (a top bathroom design trend in 2024) can further enhance this natural aesthetic. these elements not only add visual harmony but also help cultivate a sense of relaxation and ease, inviting you to unwind in a space that feels connected to the earth.

earthy tones and soothing colors

these are essential in biophilic bathroom design, as they bring a sense of calm and connection to the natural world. colors like soft greens, warm browns, sandy beiges and muted grays echo the hues found in forests, mountains and beaches, creating an atmosphere that feels grounded and peaceful. these tones work well for walls, tiles and cabinetry, while adding subtle color accents like sage green towels or terracotta pots introduces depth without overpowering the space. soft, neutral colors allow natural materials and organic textures to stand out, creating a balanced, serene environment.

living plants

live plants are a cornerstone of biophilic bathroom design, bringing a fresh, vibrant energy that transforms the space into a natural retreat. plants not only enhance visual appeal with their lush greenery but also can help improve air quality and promote a sense of well-being. species like ferns, peace lilies, snake plants and pothos thrive in humid bathroom environments and require minimal maintenance.

for a dramatic effect, consider a vertical garden or hanging plants to create a “living wall,” adding depth and a touch of the rainforest to your space. smaller potted plants on shelves or near the sink add bursts of green that soften the room’s edges.

natural light

natural light is a fundamental element in biophilic bathroom design, enhancing both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the space. by maximizing the influx of natural light, a bathroom feels more open, airy and connected to the outdoors. incorporating large windows, skylights or light wells allows sunlight to flood the room, creating a sense of warmth and tranquility.

natural light not only improves mood and well-being but also helps regulate circadian rhythms, promoting better sleep patterns. in a biophilic design, light is carefully considered to balance privacy and exposure, often utilizing frosted or tinted glass, or strategically placed plants to create a harmonious, bright and inviting atmosphere.

water as a sensory element

water is a key sensory element in biophilic bathroom design, fostering a deep connection to nature and enhancing the overall experience of the space. the sound of flowing water, whether from a shower, bathtub or a water feature, creates a calming atmosphere, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. the visual presence of water, such as a waterfall showerhead or a sleek, minimalist basin, can also evoke a sense of tranquility and harmony with the natural world.

in biophilic design, water is integrated not just as a functional element but as a sensory experience that engages sight, sound and touch, enriching the bathroom environment with a soothing, refreshing ambiance that aligns with nature’s rhythms.

nature-inspired bathroom ideas

create a spa like atmosphere with natural stone

creating a spa-like atmosphere in a nature-inspired bathroom with natural stone is a wonderful way to bring an earthy, luxurious feel to the space. natural stone, such as marble, granite, limestone or river rock, adds rich textures and unique patterns that make the bathroom feel like an extension of the natural world. for bathroom floors, you have a lot of options for tile types and layouts that can further evoke the feel of nature.

for floors, walls or countertops, stone surfaces provide a cool, calming aesthetic that resembles high-end spas. a stone-tiled shower, pebble flooring or a freestanding stone basin can evoke a sense of relaxation and escape. paired with neutral colors, soft lighting and organic textures, natural stone transforms the bathroom into a rejuvenating sanctuary where one can unwind and connect with nature.

bring in wood for warmth and texture

incorporating wood into a nature-inspired bathroom brings warmth, texture and an organic feel that enhances the space’s connection to the natural world. wood adds a cozy, inviting element to the bathroom, softening the atmosphere while creating a visually striking contrast against materials like stone or tile.

wooden vanities, shelving or even a wood-framed mirror introduce rich tones and natural grain patterns, while bamboo (technically a grass) or teak, known for their water-resistant properties, are ideal for humid environments. reclaimed or raw wood can add a rustic charm, while smoother, polished finishes offer a more contemporary look.

design a shower that feels like an outdoor oasis

designing a shower that feels like an outdoor oasis brings a refreshing, nature-inspired vibe to any bathroom. start by choosing earthy materials, like stone tiles or pebble flooring, to mimic the feel of a natural landscape (check out these coastal shower ideas). large-format glass panels or a partially open ceiling can create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces–or consider adding a skylight above the shower for natural light and a view of the sky.

incorporating lush, humidity-loving plants like ferns or hanging greenery around the shower area helps build a tropical, immersive atmosphere. a waterfall or rain-style showerhead enhances the sensation of standing beneath a gentle stream, adding to the outdoor-inspired experience. (need design ideas for a small shower? look no further.)

add small details that reflect nature

adding small details that reflect nature can transform a bathroom into a soothing, nature-inspired retreat. consider using organic materials and textures, like bamboo soap dishes, woven baskets or wooden trays to hold toiletries. stone accents, such as a pebble mat or a soap dish made from river rock, subtly bring in natural elements. (tile that evokes the feel of nature can add to biophilic design–here’s a guide on the best types to use in bathrooms.)

greenery is another simple touch: small potted plants, like succulents or air plants, add life and a fresh touch to the space without requiring much upkeep. natural fiber towels, earthy-colored ceramics and botanical artwork or prints on the walls can also echo the beauty of the outdoors.

engage the senses with texture

texture is a key component of nature-inspired bathroom design, as it creates a multi-sensory experience that draws you closer to nature. try a mix of materials that offer tactile and visual contrast, such as rough-hewn slate tile, smooth river rocks, soft linen towels and reclaimed wood.

textured tiles on walls or in the shower area can mimic the appearance of natural rock formations, adding dimension and a raw, organic feel. consider a woven jute or sisal rug underfoot for a warm, natural fiber touch. bamboo blinds, wicker baskets and hand-woven textiles all contribute to a layered, inviting atmosphere.

tile that enhances the feel of nature in your biophilic bathroom should be one of your biggest considerations. natural stone, nature-inspired patterns and earthy colors will go a long way toward creating a natural setting and soothing, restorative bathroom atmosphere. artisanal, handcrafted tile (our specialty), with its beautiful imperfections (like zellige), brings an organic, wabi sabi vibe to the space. dive into the world of clé tile to discover a mix of nature, practicality and timeless sophistication perfect for a biophilic bathroom.