Part 1 of 3: Bringing the Outside In Through Biophilia
One of the most intriguing trends in bathroom design today is connecting with nature to improve our overall well-being. This idea is called biophilia, and it can help us feel calm, centered, and refreshed. By incorporating natural elements into bathroom functionality and décor, we get the benefits of being outdoors in nature—reduced stress, enhanced creativity, and improved physical and emotional health—even when indoors. The natured-inspired principals of biophilic design might influence the use of Walnut cabinetry, a copper soaking tub, and hanging plants in your primary bathroom to transform your space into a healing oasis in the heart of your home.
According to a National Kitchen and Bath Association kitchens survey, 52% of the respondents agree that cabinets will be a primary place for incorporating statement colors. This is true for bathrooms, too, and a great way to begin adding natural elements to create a calming space. Which brings us to looking at ways to do that.
Natural Materials & Restorative Colors
Design your space with wood, stone, and natural fibers such as cotton or bamboo towels. Hang linen curtains or hemp wall coverings that look and feel natural. Mother-of-pearl tile and a pebble shower tile are other ways to bring in nature. You may not be surprised that NKBA reports 2025 color trends skew toward earthy tones such as browns, soft blues, and healing greens to evoke the feeling of being outdoors. If not painted finishes, doors made of beautiful woods or wood alternatives replicating the look and touch of natural or weathered wood easily bring the calming elements of nature indoors.
The Versatility of Light
Natural light is one of the most transformative elements in any space. It enhances mood, supports circadian rhythms, and makes a bathroom feel comfortable and inviting. Windows, of course, are ideal for daytime lighting and lighting fixtures can set the mood at night. Today’s energy-efficient LED light options enhance functionality and create ambiance. Light bars, light ribbons and puck lights can be placed above, beneath or inside cabinetry with adjustable intensities and color from a soft, warm glow to a crisp, cool bright.
Here are other lighting ideas:
- Recessed ceiling lights with adjustable brightness and color
- Frosted glass panels for privacy while still allowing light in
- Backlit mirrors that mimic natural daylight
- Sconces or pendant lights for tasks
- Uplights and spotlights to highlight plants and decorative art
- Skylights that let in the sun, moon and stars
You can also keep candles on hand for evening relaxation. A candlelit soak is a great way to calm your mind before going to bed.
Relax, Release, Restore
Biophilia design transforms bathrooms into restorative spaces—perfect for starting the day, unwinding in the evening, and rejuvenation every time in between. Bringing our natural world indoors makes it easy to stay connected to Mother Earth for better health and well-being.
Stay tuned for Part 2 of our series, where we’ll explore the power of water and plants, two additional elements that can elevate your bathroom into a truly immersive retreat.
Be sure to download the Designing a Bathroom for Restoration and Wellness ebook from our website!
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ultracurrent : an energetic flow of premium design ideas.
Here we’ll explore current design trends and ideas, look at UltraCraft products in ways they’ve not been presented before, and celebrate spaces created by UltraCraft kitchen and bath designers. We’ll build a reference library of ideas and information to inspire homeowners and professional designers to think outside the cabinet.
We’ll also introduce new products at least twice each year. We’re committed to living on the leading edge of fashion and function, and offering uncompromising quality, fit, and finish. Our in-house designers, engineers, and new-product developers are always searching for and creating better ways to bring you your dream kitchen…or even better than you can dream!
Hey UltraCraft kitchen designers…
Do you have professional-level photography of your outstanding kitchen designs? You can upload them to MasterBrand’s Media Hub and get them the recognition they deserve! Having your images on our Media Hub allows other designers to be inspired by your projects and your photos have the potential of being highlighted in our literature and on our website and social media posts. Other dealers (only those NOT located in your state) would be allowed to use your photos as long as they credit you and your photographer every time they use your image. Please share your pictures. We love your work!
