I've been obsessed with a design philosophy that's quietly revolutionizing hospitality.
Let me introduce you to biophilic design, the idea that our spaces should actually connect us with nature instead of isolating us from it.
We've swung so far toward cold, sterile minimalism in design that we've forgotten something fundamental: humans crave connection with nature.
Now there's a movement bringing that back in a big way…
And it's reshaping how we think about creating spaces that guests genuinely want to experience.
What Is Biophilic Design?
Think of it as designing spaces that intentionally connect people with nature. But it's not just adding some plants to a lobby and calling it a day.
Biophilic design uses natural light that changes throughout the day, water features you can hear and feel, organic materials that invite touch, views of greenery and landscapes, and spaces that create that feeling of refuge we all seek.
The core idea is simple: humans have a deep, instinctive connection to the natural world. When we design buildings and spaces that honor that connection, people feel better–calmer, more creative, more restored.
It's about bringing the outside in and blurring those boundaries between built and natural environments.
Why I Love This Approach
There's something magical that happens when you step into a space that truly connects you with nature. It's that feeling you get in a treehouse surrounded by a canopy, or sitting in a glass pavilion during a rainstorm.
I love how biophilic design creates these unexpected moments of wonder. A window perfectly framed to capture morning light filtering through leaves. The sound of water trickling nearby. Materials that feel warm and lived-in rather than cold and untouchable.
It taps into something primal.
That sense of refuge that makes us feel both safe and inspired at the same time. When you're designing hospitality experiences, that emotional response is everything.
There's also this authenticity to it that feels refreshing after years of Instagram-perfect but soulless spaces. Biophilic design celebrates imperfection, seasonality, the way things age and patina over time.
Singapore has fully embraced this approach to architecture…
The PARKROYAL on Pickering in Singapore literally doubles its site's greenery through sky terraces, cascading planters, and reflective pools. Walking through it feels like exploring a vertical garden that happens to have hotel rooms.
Gardens by the Bay in Singapore features massive Supertree structures that combine vertical gardens with solar energy collection, creating an otherworldly landscape that's become one of the world's most visited attractions while serving real environmental functions.
Khoo Teck Puat Hospital in Singapore integrated extensive gardens and natural light throughout the facility, resulting in measurably faster patient recovery times and lower staff burnout–proving that biophilic design delivers real health benefits, not just aesthetic ones.
Biophilic design has shaped everything we've built.
While I didn't always realize what it was called, we've incorporated biophilic design into many of our projects. It's simply the design style I'm most drawn to.
Our treehouses, green-roofs, and all of our unique unit designs prioritize connection between guests and the surrounding landscape.
We design units to preserve existing trees and work with natural topography. Floor-to-ceiling windows dissolve the boundary between inside and outside. Private outdoor soaking tubs let guests feel completely immersed in nature while maintaining privacy.
Our experiences extend that connection–nature walks, stargazing experiences, forest bathing–turning the landscape into part of the guest experience rather than just a backdrop.
My next project, Baya in South Florida, will even further embrace this design philosophy with units integrated into an exotic fruit forest and natural grottos tucked into lush palm groves.
The results are stays that feel restorative rather than just luxurious, and guests who remember the experience long after they leave.
Why do I think this is the future of hospitality?
I think we're at a turning point in design.
After decades of pushing toward increasingly minimal, sterile, tech-forward spaces, people are craving something more human and authentic.
Modern travelers are seeking experiences that feel restorative and grounding. They want to disconnect from screens and reconnect with something real. Biophilic design delivers that in a way that cold luxury simply can't.
For properties, it creates differentiation that's nearly impossible to replicate. Anyone can buy the same furniture or hire the same interior designer. But your specific landscape, your local materials, your unique relationship with the natural environment–that's yours alone.
We've been deprived of green spaces and natural materials for so long that properties offering an authentic connection with nature will stand out dramatically.
Does this biophilic approach resonate with you, or are you drawn to a different design philosophy?
Reply and let me know what style you're gravitating toward. I'd love to hear your thoughts.
Exciting news for your hotel!
We’ve expanded the Oasi team to bring you the same strategies and expertise that fueled Onera’s success.
From boosting your social media presence and marketing strategies, to optimizing pricing and offering full-service property management, we’re ready to help your property attract the Modern Traveler and maximize your returns.
Fill out an inquiry here and let’s explore how we can work together.
See you guys next week!
-Ben Wolff
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🎥 Check Out My Podcast with Steve Turk Diving into The Story Behind Baya, Our New Tropical Landscape Resort
🎥 Check Out My Episode on The Bigger Pockets STR Podcast on Redefining Luxury Hotels and Outperforming Traditional Hotel Models
🎥 Check Out My Podcast Episode on the Action Academy about Making Millions Through Direct Bookings
Ben Wolff
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