Biophilic design now plays an important role for reintegrating nature into our rapidly urbanized world. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s us human beings trying to meet our psychological and physiological needs.
This is based on the idea of biophilia, put forth by esteemed biologist E.O. Wilson, that humans have an inherent connection with nature.
Benefits of biophilic design:
- Stress reduction. There has also been shown exposure to nature, even in simulated form, can lower cortisol levels and lessen stress.
- Improved cognitive function. Research had proven that biophilic environments can improve focus, memory and problem solving.
- Enhanced creativity. Views of natural elements can be inspiring, encouraging us to think more creatively and more innovatively.
- Better air quality. Improvement of indoor air quality can be achieved by plants and natural ventilation systems.
- Increased well-being. Biophilic design has been associated with greater sleep quality and higher job satisfaction in workplaces.
You can trace the history of its existence to the buildings of ancient civilisation geared with nature. It got its formal recognition in the 1980s, and it has since developed as a seminal part of sustainable and human oriented architecture.
Future of biophilic design
- The integration of technology with biophilic design, such as circadian lighting systems and AI-controlled indoor climates that mimic natural conditions.
- Biophilic design is increasingly being combined with green building practices to create structures that are both environmentally friendly and human-centric.
- Biophilic cities could help combat urban heat islands, improve air quality, and increase biodiversity in urban areas.
Examples of excelent application of biophilic design:
- Amazon Spheres, Seattle. These glass domes house 40,000 plants from over 30 countries. It is creating a unique workspace that boosts employee well-being and productivity.
- Khoo Teck Puat hospital, Singapore. This hospital integrates gardens, green roofs, and water features. Throughout its design, contributing to faster patient recovery times and improved staff satisfaction.
- Bosco Verticale, Milan. These residential towers feature trees and over 900 plant species on their balconies. It is creating a vertical forest in the heart of the city.
Biophilic design is a powerful way to reconnect humans with nature in our built environments. If we can bring its principles into our houses, workplaces and public places, we can make healthier houses and workplaces and public places. Now, as traditional development patterns feel the constraints of rising urbanization and ecological crisis, biophilic design offers a way to establish spaces that thrive for human health and ecological health simultaneously.
Interesting sources of knowledge that are worth reading:
Books:
- “Biophilic Design: The Theory, Science, and Practice of Bringing Buildings to Life” by Stephen R. Kellert, Judith Heerwagen, and Martin Mador
- “Nature Inside: A Biophilic Design Guide” by William D. Browning and Catherine O. Ryan
Websites:
- Biophilic Design Initiative www.biophilicdesign.net
- International Living Future Institute www.living-future.org/biophilic-design
Organizations:
- The Biophilic Institute
- Green Plants for Green Buildings
