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Sage and olive green color examples
Interior Design Practice

Biophilic Color Influences

IDI Editorial Team3 min read

Introduction

Biophilic color influences draw inspiration from nature's natural color palette, integrating tones that evoke a sense of calm, well-being, and connection to the environment. Colors like soft greens, earthy browns, blues, and neutrals are commonly used to recreate the peaceful atmosphere found in natural landscapes. These colors have been shown to reduce stress and enhance mood, as they subconsciously remind people of the outdoors and natural elements. Green is often associated with growth and renewal, while blues are linked to tranquility and calmness, promoting a serene space for work or relaxation.

The use of biophilic colors also supports cognitive functions and overall health. In settings like offices, schools, or healthcare environments, introducing natural color influences can help improve concentration, creativity, and emotional stability. Studies suggest that biophilic color schemes can lower heart rates and reduce feelings of anxiety, offering a more balanced and restorative space. The incorporation of these colors not only supports our innate connection to nature but also encourages a more sustainable, mindful approach to interior design, aligning with a growing emphasis on wellness and environmental consciousness.

Imagine a room with soft sage green walls that evoke the peacefulness of a forest, complemented by light wood furniture and plants scattered around. A few accent pieces, such as pillows or rugs in rich earth tones like terracotta and deep brown, enhance the natural feel. Large windows let in natural light, and a pale blue hue on the ceiling mimics the sky, adding to the serene atmosphere.

Alternatively, picture an office space where walls are painted in soft neutral tones, like beige or warm taupe, and artwork depicting landscapes with blues and greens lines the walls. A few potted plants and a water feature can provide pops of color, while the overall atmosphere feels calm, inviting, and connected to nature.

Aurora Borealis color palette example

Trending Color Palettes

Greens are continuing to have their moment, although shades of sage and olive are replacing neons and jewel tones. Pantone's Color of the Year, Mocha Mousse, is a soft, muted shade of brown that works well as a statement neutral. Appliances continue their move away from stainless, with many kitchen designs using a range or hood as a colorful focal point in the space. Custom options for everything from appliances to faucets to hardware allow for mixing and matching of tones and materials for a personalized look. Blues continue to be popular for kitchen cabinets, either as perimeter pieces or islands. In the bath, tile and vanities are getting bold in design, with color combinations and textures delivering style statements.

Sage and olive green color examples

Colors of the Night Sky

The newest curated color collection from Elmira Stove Works – Aurora Borealis – is a contemporary series of shades available as custom color options in the company's Northstar and Heritage product lines. The color palette is based on the vibrant colors of the Aurora Borealis, the natural light display in the night sky. Some of the shades in the collection include Helium Halo (deep purple), Charged Atmosphere (bright green), Hydrogen Horizon (icy blue), and Night Watch (rich black-blue).

Mocha Mousse neutral brown color swatch

Additional Notable Collections

BlueStar has introduced a color palette for the 2024/2025 winter season, tones designed to bring warmth to interiors, capturing the essence of cozy seasonal elements. Marazzi's Rhyme and Reason collection of glazed ceramic wall tiles features a deep biophilic color palette, including Indigo, Canvas, Artichoke, Warm Terracotta and Bone. Innovation Cabinetry introduces SAGE, a fresh, earthy green, to its Endura Outdoor Cabinetry collection, blending modern aesthetics with natural beauty. Cosentino's Le Chic Boheme by SilestoneXM Collection features four new low-silica colors that showcase Parisian sophistication and bohemian flair.

Colorful kitchen appliance focal point

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