In current discussions concerning architectural and interiors design, it can be difficult to escape the trend around ‘Biophilic’.

In honesty and maybe you were the same, this was a new word and a new concept for me, a new ‘buzz word’ that I was supposed to understand. By definition, it is about ‘how to increase occupant connectivity to the natural environment through the use of direct nature, indirect nature and space and place conditions’.

Behind this drive, in addition to environmental improvement, is the continuing and real need to get people back into offices and public places and to make these places so attractive, that they interact with fellow workers, family, friends and new people that they have never met before.  In offices for example, if you create a wonderful environment where people can perform at their best, and want to stay longer, business performance improves. In hospitality, customers stay longer, eat and drink more and leave mentally and physically revitalised, with a high chance of returning. Design has to stimulate all senses!

With experience in architectural and interior design globally, including the Gulf for many decades now, I am fascinated to see how new concepts are developing, though I currently struggle with the idea of putting people in Pods in buildings, as this seems contradictory to me. Maybe I am just getting old?!

While interiors are ‘biophilically and environmentally changing’ there are some ways of expediting people’s experiences positively and very quickly.

As textile and soft furnishings designers and makers based in the UK, we specialise in using pure wool that is soft to the touch, yet can both feel warm when needed and provide cooling when hot, both indoors and outdoors.  Our experiences suggest that concentrating on colour trends is not the complete answer, as the latest ‘shade of green’ fails to generate as many thoughts and mental comfort and ‘escapism’ as country themes, wildlife and animals and seaside and marine themes.  ‘Cuddling cushions’ and ‘Tactile throws and blankets’ stay in everyone’s arms, around shoulders and more, as they stimulate memories, encourage relaxation and connect with the environment and nature. These can be incorporated quickly into any interior or exterior and changed easily, to vary themes and generate interest. 

We really must get round to including the word ‘Biophilic’ in our marketing materials hadn’t we?!

So, if you are an interior designer or want the best solutions for your home, restaurant, hotel or any hospitality, let’s start a conversation, as we are sure we can help.  We can even create furnishings and textiles that started in our mutual imaginations. Hang on, will that make us trend setters?!

www.jjtextile.co.uk   info@jjtextile.co.uk  tel: 01283 296053