Being in the presence of nature has been found to have a beneficial effect on the demeanor, health, and contentment of numerous individuals. Months of confinement to indoor environments were further intensified by the pаndemic, which increased the urgency to be outdoors or in surroundings. As the movement is commonly referred to, biophilic design is a style that satisfies this desire by integrating natural light, indoor vegetation, water features, terraces, and indoor-outdoor living spaces, in addition to providing seamless indoor-outdoor access. This architecture with a focus on nature also incorporates perspectives of the ocean, mountains, gardens, and other natural environments.

Edward O. Wilson, a Harvard ecologist and sociobiologist, conceived the concept in the 1980s; his research confirmed that man has a natural need for beauty. Ever since then, architects and designers have sought out inventive ways to bring breathtaking landscapes indoors, whether it be a cozy city condo or a sprawling island mansion. Biophilic design is in greater demand than ever before, as an increasing number of householders seek out new primary, secondary, or tertiary residences that are earth-conscious. Presented below are eight remarkable and aesthetically pleasing seaside residences that skillfully integrate nature in both overt and covert ways—while also promoting your overall health and happiness.

Vιrgιn Gorda, British Vιrgιn Islands

The private island of Oil Nut Bay in the British Vιrgιn Islands is only accessible by helicopter or boat, which makes your arrival to this slice of paradise even more majestic. The lush mountainous island features several ultra-luxurious homes, including Lion Heart, a 12.55-acre clifftop property. On the expansive land, you’ll find two built and furnished homes, Halo and Rainbow. The homes rise organically from the steep verticals and feature living green rooftops covered in tropical flora and a waterfall. The abodes are seamlessly built in harmony with the island’s natural topography and include views of the ocean from every room. The curved design and use of native materials make you feel closer to the essence of the Caribbean island.

Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Costa Rica is known for its lush jungles, verdant nature and eco-friendly living, and the resort community of Costa Elena in Guanacaste has exceptional opportunities to own a biophilic home among the treetops. The Sunset Villas—there are four total, ranging from four to five-bedroom homes priced from $2.35 million—are modern tropical villas made with sustainable materials. With views of the Pacific Ocean from nearly every room, you’re never too far from the outdoors. The villas have private infinity-edge pools and secluded balconies and terraces from every room, plus plenty of space for outdoor dining and lounging.

Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

The residential development Kohanaiki is one of the Big Island’s most exclusive golf communities—and its real-estate offerings are seriously impressive. Kahakai 27 is a $24.5 million, seven-bedroom home from architect Shay Zak that blends Hawaiian style with modern design. With tall ceilings and nearly invisible sliding glass pocket doors—which open directly to the grassy backyard and pool—it’s almost as if you’re living outside. There are panoramic ocean views and views of the Kona coastline from the primary suites. The home also includes outdoor showers, an expansive lanai and native Hawaiian flora at every turn.

Costa Brava, Spain

The seaside home has several terraces and views from many levels.

Engel & Völkers Costa Brava

First built in 1967, this seafront home in Costa Brava, Spain, is timeless. The 12-bedroom home features several incredible terraces that hang off the cliffside with turquoise ocean views beyond. The Bauhaus-style home is built into the rocks and features glass walls from the ground to the roof that span the length of the house. There is a grassy deck with a glass fence, floating walkways, private balconies, and a stairway through the native flora that traverses down the cliff to the beach. It’s both an architectural marvel and a nature lover’s dream.

Nassau, Bahamas

Located in the coveted Ocean Club Estates in the Bahamas, La Ceiba is an oasis surrounded by nature. The sprawling property has waterfalls, many pools, 300 feet of beachfront, and impressive landscaping that makes it feel like your own private resort. The tropical, hоtel-style infinity pool weaves around a side of the home and is shaded with towering palms that sway with the Caribbean breeze. There are also several covered terraces, balconies and patios from which to enjoy the endless ocean views. Amenities include a manicured Bocce court, a beach dune hоt tub and outdoor recreation spaces for those who love to entertain.

Athens, Greece

This newly constructed villa—called Pandora—is located in the heart of Vouliagmeni, a suburb of the Athens Riviera in Greece. Mimicking organic curves found in nature, the stark-white building combines ultra-contemporary design with nature at every turn. The curvatures, which were inspired by soaring wings, provide a tranquil atmosphere and enhance privacy for the 5,381-square-foot villa. The three-level home, listed for just under $7 million, also features many plants and trees that let the outdoors in. There’s also natural exposed rock in the living room and on outdoor decks, which support the structure, and open-air spaces.

Dominica

Sеcrеt Bay has championed biophilic and sustainable design through its resort on the Caribbean island of Dominica, and the development recently announced the Residences at Sеcrеt Bay. Now, you can vacation full-time with a residential property on the lush island. Starting at $1.5 million, the architectural tree house-style residences will range from 1,236 square feet to 5,182 square feet with amenities such as pools, outdoor patios, state-of-the-art technology and access to a wealth of resort amenities. The location of the villas—on the jagged cliff sides overlooking the impossibly blue Caribbean Sea—is the perfect place to reconnect with nature.

Costa Smeralda, Italy

There are many facets to this incredible countryside property, designed by world-famous architect Savin Couelle and renovated by architect Patrick Lesuisse. Called Villa Marem, the rustic home is built into the natural contours of the hillside landscape, making it feel as though you’re traversing through the forest as you maneuver the rocky, tree-lined steps to get to various parts of the property. There is a lovely pool and spacious deck that feels extra secluded surrounded by dense trees. One of the more recent features is a breezy pergola constructed from chestnut and bamboo wood, perfect for enjoying warm Italian afternoons. There are also many natural features like a garden and a real waterfall with a pond, as well as views over Pervero Bay.