Biophilic Design and Lighting

Biophilic design and lighting: when light brings spaces closer to nature

In recent years, the way we think about spaces has changed. It is no longer only about aesthetics, functionality or energy efficiency. Increasingly, architecture and interior design seek to answer a fundamental question: how can spaces improve the well-being of the people who use them?

It is within this context that biophilic design has gained prominence. An approach that aims to bring the built environment closer to nature, creating spaces that feel more balanced, comfortable and healthy.

When we think about biophilic design, images of plants, indoor gardens, natural materials or large windows that allow daylight to enter immediately come to mind. However, there is one element that often goes unnoticed and plays a crucial role in this relationship with nature: light.

And not only natural light.
Artificial lighting can — and should — contribute to creating spaces that feel more human, natural and balanced.

What is biophilic design?

The concept of biophilic design is based on a simple idea: human beings have an innate connection with nature. Throughout evolution, we have been shaped by natural environments — by sunlight, by the cycles of day and night, by the textures of wood and stone, and by the shadows of trees.

When we spend most of our time indoors, that connection tends to weaken.

Biophilic design seeks to restore that relationship by integrating natural elements into architecture and interiors, such as:

• natural light

• vegetation

• organic materials

• natural ventilation

• views to the outside

• textures and patterns inspired by nature

The result is environments that are not only visually appealing but also promote comfort, productivity and well-being.

Light as a central element of spatial experience

Among all the elements of biophilic design, light occupies a special place.

In nature, light is never static. Throughout the day it changes in intensity, direction and colour. In the morning it is softer and cooler, at midday it becomes brighter and clearer, and towards the evening it turns warmer and more atmospheric. These natural rhythms directly influence our bodies, regulating what is known as the circadian rhythm — the biological clock that controls sleep cycles, energy and concentration.

In interior spaces where lighting is designed only to meet minimum illuminance levels, this dimension is often lost.

On the other hand, when lighting is considered as an integral part of architecture, it can help recreate sensations closer to natural light, contributing to more comfortable and balanced environments.

(Image of Tromilux offices with indoor garden and Cobra luminaire)

At the Tromilux offices, the presence of indoor vegetation, abundant natural light and architectural lighting contributes to a more balanced and comfortable working environment. The Cobra luminaire, awarded with an international design prize, follows the architecture of the space in a fluid and organic way.

How artificial lighting can reinforce biophilic design

Although nothing truly replaces natural daylight, artificial lighting can play a fundamental role in how spaces are perceived and experienced.

Respecting natural light rhythms

One of the most interesting approaches in contemporary lighting design is adapting light to the rhythm of the day. Neutral or cooler colour temperatures during periods of activity and warmer tones during moments of relaxation help create environments that are more aligned with the natural functioning of the human body.

Enhancing natural materials and textures

Materials such as wood, stone, ceramics or natural fabrics gain an entirely different dimension when illuminated correctly. Carefully directed light can reveal textures, depth and details that reinforce the sense of naturalness within a space.

Creating contrast and depth

In nature, light is rarely uniform. There are shadows, highlights and surfaces that reflect light differently. Spaces illuminated in a completely homogeneous way tend to feel flat and less engaging. Introducing different layers of light — general, accent and ambient lighting — allows spaces to feel richer and more dynamic.

Extending the perception of daylight

A well-designed lighting strategy can visually extend the presence of daylight within a space, balancing interior and exterior areas and ensuring smoother transitions between different moments of the day.

Lighting and well-being: an increasingly evident relationship

The way we illuminate spaces has a direct impact on how we feel within them. Recent studies show that well-lit environments can help improve concentration, reduce visual fatigue and even positively influence mood.

In a context where we spend a large part of our lives indoors — whether at home, at work or in commercial environments — the quality of lighting becomes more than just a technical issue. It becomes a matter of comfort and health.

This is precisely where biophilic design and lighting design meet.

Thinking about lighting as part of architecture

More than simply illuminating a space, the real challenge lies in integrating light into the architectural concept. When lighting is considered from the very beginning of a project, it becomes possible to create environments that are more balanced, coherent and closer to the way we experience nature.

Light can guide movement, highlight materials, define atmospheres and completely transform how a space is perceived.

In an increasingly urban and technological world, this connection between architecture, nature and lighting is becoming more relevant than ever.

When thoughtfully designed, artificial light does not replace nature — it brings us closer to it. Because ultimately, good lighting design is not just about seeing a space better — it is about feeling better within it.