Meet Nicole Craanen
Nicole Craanen is a globally recognized professional deeply rooted in world travel and a profound connection to nature.
Vision
To inspire a more interconnected world between humans and nature.
Mission
The Biophilic Design Institute empowers individuals and organizations with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to integrate biophilic design into everyday work. By fostering a community that champions nature connection, we aim to transform spaces into environments that nurture both human well-being and ecological harmony.
About Nicole
My passion for biophilic design is deeply rooted in my connection to nature and my expertise in interior design and human ecology. As the founder and owner of The Biophilic Design Institute (formerly Rooted In Nature), I am committed to transforming our relationship with our environments, guiding architects and designers to integrate our innate connection with nature into core design principles.
My roles on advisory boards for Living Future Europe and WELL Building Standard, along with my journey as a yoga instructor and Nature & Forest Therapy Guide, inform my philosophy of promoting health and well-being while mitigating human impact on the non-human world. I emphasize curiosity, deep listening, and collaboration, and I am passionate about advocating for a reevaluation of current design principles, championing a future where human and environmental interdependence is at the forefront of creative innovation.
I love exploring this world with my husband and young daughter (the cat stays home). I have been lucky enough to experience 24 countries, and have been brought to tears during moments of awe in my own backyard.
Conversations & Contributions
From podcasts to publications, here’s where Nicole has lent their voice, vision, and knowledge.
PODCASTS & WEBINARS
Podcast: The Enchanted Earth
I join Maureen on “The Tip of the Iceberg Moment” to share how a meaningful experience in nature shaped my path. Her podcast explores stories that reconnect people and planet.
Podcast: Journal of Biophilic Design
In the episode “Rooted in Nature – How Biophilic Design Helps Us Flourish,” I speak with Vanessa Champion about how biophilic design can reconnect us with nature and support personal and collective well-being.
Webinar: Elevating Wellbeing Through Biophilic Design
Sponsored by GreenHome Institute, this CEU webinar explores how biophilic design creates nurturing environments that support health, comfort, and connection.
Publications
Journal of Biophilic Design – Issue 10
I authored “Rekindling Our Connection,” a guide for biophilic design practitioners on deepening nature connectedness through personal practice.
White House Invests in Nature: Forest Therapy Report
Contributed to this ANFT report led by Dr. Tamberly Conway, highlighting forest therapy’s role in public health, climate resilience, and community well-being.
Biophilia Locus Playbook
A co-created guide I contributed to, offering regenerative approaches to biophilic design that deepen our relationships with nature, place, and each other.
The Enchanted Earth: Embracing the Power of Nature to Discover the Wild in You
My story is featured in this anthology exploring personal journeys of connecting with nature, meaning, and belonging.
Projects
AnthoFile Design Project (UW–Madison MD+I)
Nicole mentored students in the UW-Madison Masters of Design and Innovation program in developing a toolkit and web app that supports native planting design and pollinator-friendly landscapes.
Podcast Interview
Trudy Watt interviews students about AnthoFile and its impact on pollinators and design. Listen Now
Student Website
Explore the AnthoFile toolkit—app, care sheets, and seasonal guidance for native planting. View Now
UW–Madison Project Page
Overview of the AnthoFile project, its goals, and the team behind the work. Read More
University of Wisconsin–Madison Lakeshore Nature Preserve Frautschi Center – Madison, WI
Biophilic Design Consultant
Architect: The Kubala Washatko Architects
Nicole is guiding the biophilic design process through hands-on planning and collaboration, including an 8-hour stakeholder workshop. Her work supports the development of a sensory-rich, ecologically grounded experience. This transformative Living Building Challenge project aims to become one of the most sustainable buildings in Wisconsin, serving as a gateway for education, restoration, and deepened relationships with the land. Learn More
Armistead Agrihood – Franklin, TN
Biophilic Design Consultant
Town Planning: TPUDC – Town Planning and Urban Design
At Armistead, a 200-acre agrihood rooted in the legacy of a 135-year-old family farm, Nicole is bringing a biophilic perspective to the design of a vibrant, nature-connected community. Agrihoods are residential developments built around working farms, blending food production with daily life. Nicole is helping shape a living environment where agriculture, ecology, and community intersect—supporting spaces that cultivate both human and environmental well-being and honoring the deep connection between people and place. Learn More
Speaking Engagements
As an esteemed international speaker, Nicole shares insights on biophilic design, combining her design proficiency with a deep-rooted commitment to wellness. She draws on 200-hour yoga instructor training and work as a Nature & Forest Therapy Guide to intertwine embodiment practices with her design philosophy. Nicole’s dedication to meditation enhances her holistic approach to well-being, adding a unique perspective to her speaking engagements.
Educational Opportunities
The Biophilic Design Practitioner Certification Program: Biophilic Fundamentals
Deepen your personal connection to nature.
This curriculum will give you the tools to understand who you are as a designer and advocate for biophilic design.