Environments influence the brain, emotions and overall well-being; biophilic elements such as textiles and wall coverings can positively impact well-being and productivity
MULTISENSORY ENVIRONMENTS THAT SUPPORT WELL-BEING AND COGNITIVE PERFORMANCE
Interior architecture and design is evolving. Today, there is a growing focus on how environments influence the brain, emotions and overall well-being. This shift has led to the rise of neuroaesthetics — a field that explores how form, colour, pattern, texture and spatial experience shape our nervous system.
At the same time, biophilic design is gaining momentum. Both approaches recognise that humans are deeply connected to nature and that natural environments support emotional regulation, reduce stress and improve cognitive function. Together, they are shaping the future of interior design.
Sampling for the Nature Collection of rugs and Axminster broadloom, designed by Miranda Brown, that connect us to nature to support well-being
NATURE IS A MULTISENSORY EXPERIENCE
One of the key insights from neuroaesthetics is that nature engages all the senses, not just vision. In the natural world, we experience pattern, movement, texture, sound, scent and rhythm simultaneously.
Research shows that multisensory environments produce stronger restorative and cognitive benefits than visual design alone. This highlights the importance of layered sensory design in interior spaces. Materials such as carpets, textiles and finishes play a critical role because they shape how we see, feel and experience a space every day.
SIX NEURO-AESTHETIC PRINCIPLES FOR DESIGN
- Biomorphic and fractal patterns
Nature’s repeating yet varied forms help reduce stress and support visual comfort. - Multisensory layering
Combining visual and tactile elements enhances emotional and cognitive outcomes. - Natural materials and texture
Warm, tactile surfaces increase comfort and perceived safety. - Colour and emotional balance
Nature-derived palettes support calm, focus and wellbeing. - Dynamic visual interest
Variation and depth reduce fatigue and support attention. - Connection to natural rhythms
Design that reflects natural cycles supports circadian health and mental clarity.
Seed rug and textiles by Miranda Brown at Auckland Design Week immersive biophilic spaces exhibition in 2025. Photography by Luke Foley-Martin
THE MEASURABLE BENEFITS
Integrating neuroaesthetic and biophilic principles has been shown to:
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Improve mood and emotional resilience
- Enhance focus, memory and productivity
- Support creativity and innovation
- Improve recovery and patient experience in healthcare environments
- Increase long-term satisfaction in workplaces and homes
HOW HERITAGE CARPETS WITH MIRANDA BROWN DESIGNS SUPPORT NEUROAESTHETIC WELL-BEING
Miranda Brown’s nature-inspired collections are grounded in a place-based, sensory and research-informed approach. Rather than simply replicating nature, her work translates the emotional and ecological intelligence of natural environments into interior surfaces.
Through biomorphic patterns, natural colour, layered complexity and tactile warmth, these designs create environments that are both beautiful and restorative.
WHY THIS MATTERS
As we spend more time indoors, design plays a powerful role in supporting mental health, cognitive performance, and well-being. Neuroaesthetics and biophilic design represent a shift toward environments that actively nurture the nervous system and reconnect people to the living world.
Engaging Miranda Brown’s design and consulting services enables architects, healthcare providers and homeowners to create spaces that are future-focused, evidence-based and deeply human-centred.
Emerald Garden hand-tufted, 100% New Zealand wool brings nature inside to create this restful space. From the Nature Collection designed by Miranda Brown.
Read more about Neuroasthetics, and why designers should care, here:
Learn more about Miranda Brown soft flooring, wall coverings and textiles here:
https://www.heritagecarpets.co.nz/miranda-brown-partner/
Contact us to arrange a time to chat with Miranda.
https://www.heritagecarpets.co.nz/contact-us/
Heritage Carpets is proud to be the sole distributor of Miranda Brown soft flooring in New Zealand.
