Staircase and Metal Tread Biophilic design prefers natural over synthetic materials, as human beings innately feel more at ease with the former. In this house in Israel, the limestone walls are recycled from dismantled houses in the region. The stone staircase is original.  Photo 2 of 7 in A 250-Year-Old Stone House in Israel With a Surprisingly Modern Interior from A 250-Year-Old Stone House in Israel with a Surprisingly Modern Interior

A 250-Year-Old Stone House in Israel With a Surprisingly Modern Interior

2 of 7

The walls are made of recycled limestone sourced locally from dismantled houses. The stone staircase, original to the home, was kept intact and wrapped in tin boards. Though it used to lead to the home’s roof, it now connects the kitchen and dining area with a new addition above. The door frame of the guest unit is fabricated in varnished steel to complement the natural beauty of the surrounding stone.