Nature and ecology as design inspiration

We are increasingly aware of the need to reduce our impact on the environment and to fight global warming. This resulted in a ecological commitment among designers who develop concepts inspired by natural systems and use recycled or compostable materials. In many ways, the design pays homage to flora and fauna as much to benefit humans as to preserve the natural world, explains.

The best design ideas come from the natural landscape

Ecological design is based on a conviction: nature is a model and a guide for our way of life. Nature is for him an example to follow, which pushes us to adopt more ecological and more respectful attitudes towards the environment, especially in the field of design.

The influence of landscape and nature images on design

We have previously explored the relationship between interior design and psychological well-being and there we mention the positive effects of natural influences on morale. Depending on the desired effect, designers use the different qualities of natural elements (colors, shapes, brightness and textures) to encourage rest, introspection. Who hasn't noticed photos of a sunset landscape, a photo of the beach and soft colors in a place intended for well-being? Other design concepts are precisely thought to provoke anxiety or strong reactions to certain shapes. Sharp angles, spikes or thorns, for example, imply aggressive or threatening environments.

What is biomimetic design?

Biomimetic design is a discipline that draws inspiration from nature to create amazing and innovative objects, or even artistic performances, using natural principles and materials. Biomimetic design uses scientific methods to create objects that stick to the reality of nature. For example, the designer Chao Chen trained in industrial design at the Royal Academy of Art in London, was inspired by the structure of the pine cone to develop a material capable of reacting to water.

It also happens that biomimetic design responds to ecological imperatives. This is the case of the ArtScience Museum in Singapore which looks like a huge lotus flower and was designed to collect rainwater, in a country subject to heavy rainfall, it is rather practical!

Design elements inspired by nature

You could say that nature trumps designers. Indeed, it is able to adapt to its environments, the needs of the inhabitants and on many other levels. Nature is a great creator and that's why she is a great source of inspiration. for artists and designers since the dawn of time.

Colors found in nature photography

Colors have a key place in design, whether of a space or an object. The choice of bright and pleasant colors can be used to attract the eye while neutral and cold tones, more restful, let the texture and shape of an object or piece of furniture express themselves. Finally, dark colors can be used to emphasize strong lines or a silhouette. note that we each have a very personal appreciation of colors according to our culture or our experiences.

Here are some examples of communicative colors:

• shades of blue dark recall the classic sea photo or can evoke the mystery of the seabed. Light blue, sometimes called glacier, evokes a mountain landscape, while lagoon blue is more reminiscent of an image of a paradise beach.
• The orange color reminds us of the fruit, its smell, and by extension, vitamin C and the energy it provides.
• The pink recalls the flower of the same name, its fragrance and the romanticism that accompanies it.
• Green, the emblematic color of ecology, often conveys an ecological message.

Shapes

Organic shapes are drawn from nature, such as leaves, waves, shells, etc. They are often used in design to combine functionality and aesthetics. From the shape of a leaf to its water-repellent texture, everything inspires a designer! They can be seen as much on the Corinthian columns of Antiquity as in the vegetal chair Bourroulec brothers in recyclable polyamide.

Inspired by cocoon shapes, the hugging chair OTO, winner of the 2021 James Dyson Award, was designed by Alexia Audrain to help people with autism. The chair inflates from the inside to gently hug and soothe people who are overstimulated by their surroundings.

Textures and materials

Touch matters a lot in design and natural textures in interior design have become a must. The use of natural materials provides access to quality and durable products. Materials such as mycelium developed from mushrooms, which looks like leather, or cassava, which can replace plastic, allow designers to create objects and interiors that can be somehow "returned" to nature in the end. of life.

Ultimately, the design did not stop drawing inspiration from the surroundings, from the color of a wild bird to the structure of terraced rice fields in an aerial view. By drawing inspiration from the systems developed by animals and plants, designers can combine utility, aesthetics, sensory experience and remind us of our ecological duty. Nature can only surprise us and inspire creative minds if it flourishes!