Biophilic design aims to create buildings and spaces that enable harmonious, naturally enjoyable experiences by promoting the affinity of human beings for the natural world. This design discipline offers numerous benefits for physical and mental well-being, as well as having a positive environmental impact through enhanced sustainability performance.

Biophilic Design: A model for spatial enhancement

Introduction to Biophilic Design

Biophilic design encompasses a broad range of concepts and methods for nurturing the relationship between people and nature by bringing natural features into the built environment. This essay serves as an introduction to the topic for anyone planning to create a space or spaces that incorporate biophilic design elements. We provide some considerations to keep in mind and examples demonstrating its practical applications.

What is Biophilic Design?

Humans have a natural inclination towards nature due to our evolutionary history in the natural environment. Studies have shown that exposure to nature positively impacts our health and well-being. The term "biophilia," introduced by Erich Fromm in 1973 and popularized by Edward O. Wilson in 1984, refers to the idea that humans have an innate affinity for nature. However, the modern built environment often restricts our engagement with nature, resulting in "inadequate contact with natural light, ventilation, materials, vegetation, views, natural shapes, and forms." Biophilic design seeks to redress this balance by introducing natural elements into everyday environments.

The Six Elements of Biophilic Design

Stephen Kellert, a key proponent of biophilic design, identified six fundamental elements:

1. Environmental Features

This element relates to characteristics of the natural world found in the built environment.

2. Natural Shapes and Forms

This includes representations and simulations of the natural world in buildings.

3. Natural Patterns and Processes

This focuses on how the built environment is enhanced by incorporating properties found in nature.

4. Light and Space

There are many ways to incorporate light and space into a design, which is crucial for biophilic design.

5. Place-Based Relationships

People have a strong sense of connection with places, and this element refers to linking culture with ecology.

6. Evolved Human-Nature Relationships

This pays attention to fundamental aspects of our relationship with nature and how they can be reflected in the built environment.

Principles Behind Biophilic Design

Biophilic design seeks to create a naturally healthy habitat within the modern built environment that benefits health, fitness, and well-being. This can be achieved by applying five underlying principles:

· Requires repeated and sustained engagement with nature.

· Focuses on human adaptations to the natural world that have advanced health, fitness, and well-being.

· Encourages emotional attachment to particular settings and places.

· Promotes positive interactions between people and nature.

· Encourages interconnected architectural solutions.

Benefits of Biophilic Design

Biophilic design aims to create harmony between humans and nature within the built environment, benefiting both. Kellert and Calabrese outline the main benefits:

Physical Health Benefits

· Enhanced physical fitness.

· Lower blood pressure.

· Increased comfort and satisfaction.

· Fewer illness symptoms.

· Improved overall health.

Mental Health Benefits

· Increased satisfaction and motivation.

· Less stress and anxiety.

· Improved problem-solving and creativity.

Positive Behavioral Changes

· Better coping and mastery skills.

· Enhanced attention and concentration.

· Improved social interaction.

· Less hostility and aggression.

Implementing Biophilic Design in Practice

The benefits of biophilic design are maximized by a broad ecosystem-focused approach rather than implementing elements piecemeal. Kellert and Calabrese suggest promoting ecologically interrelated design solutions at multiple scales, from interior spaces to urban and bio-regional scales.

Kellert and Calabrese describe three kinds of experiences:

1. Direct Experience of Nature

Direct contact with natural features in the built environment, such as light, air, water, plants, animals, weather, and natural landscapes.

2. Indirect Experience of Nature

Contact with representations or images of nature, natural patterns, or processes, including images of nature, natural materials, natural colors, and biomimicry.

3. Experience of Space and Place

Spatial features found in nature that benefit health and well-being when brought into the built environment, such as prospect and refuge, organized complexity, and mobility and wayfinding.

biophilic design for home: Some key considerations & Benefits

three types of experiences in biophilic design

Biophilic design enhances well-being by integrating natural elements into indoor spaces, fostering a healthier and more harmonious home environment. Research indicates that exposure to nature can reduce stress, improve air quality, and boost cognitive function1. Below are key considerations for incorporating biophilic design in personal living spaces:

Key Considerations for Biophilic Home Design

· Natural Light:

Maximize daylight with large windows, skylights, and sheer curtains to enhance circadian rhythms and energy levels.

· Indoor Plants:

Houseplants such as snake plants and peace lilies improve air quality by filtering pollutants.

· Natural Materials:

Wood, stone, bamboo, and clay create a warm, organic feel while supporting sustainability.

· Water Elements:

Indoor fountains or aquariums add a calming, sensory experience that can reduce stress.

· Biophilic Colors & Textures:

Earthy tones and natural textures like linen, wool, or jute evoke a nature-inspired atmosphere.

· Ventilation & Air Quality:

Open windows, air-purifying plants, and high-quality air filters promote better indoor air quality.

· Outdoor Connections:

Patios, balconies, and large windows with garden views strengthen the connection to nature.

· Nature-Inspired Art & Décor:

Botanical prints, landscape paintings, and nature-themed sculptures reinforce a biophilic ambiance.

Benefits of Biophilic Home Design

· Reduces stress and enhances relaxation.

· Boosts air quality and overall health.

· Improves focus and productivity.

· Enhances emotional well-being and creativity.

· Promotes a stronger connection with nature.

Biophilic design elements can transform your home into a sanctuary that nurtures both physical and mental well-being.

References

1. Kellert, S. R., & Calabrese, E. F. (2015). The Practice of Biophilic Design. Yale University.

2. Boyce, P. R. (2014). Human Factors in Lighting. CRC Press.

3. NASA Clean Air Study. (1989). Interior Landscape Plants for Indoor Air Pollution Abatement. NASA.

4. Wilson, E. O. (1984). Biophilia. Harvard University Press.

5. Ulrich, R. S. (1984). View through a window may influence recovery from surgery. Science, 224(4647), 420-421.

6. Heerwagen, J. (2006). Psychological Value of Space. Building Research & Information, 34(4), 361-373.

7. Fisk, W. J. (2017). The ventilation problem in homes. Indoor Air, 27(2), 420-429.

8. Kaplan, R., & Kaplan, S. (1989). The Experience of Nature: A Psychological Perspective. Cambridge University Press.

9. Kahn, P. H., & Kellert, S. R. (2002). Children and Nature: Psychological, Sociocultural, and Evolutionary Investigations. MIT Press.

10. Ulrich, R. S. (1991). Stress Recovery during Exposure to Natural and Urban Environments. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 11(3), 201-230.

11. Berman, M. G., Jonides, J., & Kaplan, S. (2008). The Cognitive Benefits of Interacting with Nature. Psychological Science, 19(12), 1207-1212.

Joye, Y. (2007). Architectural Lessons from Environmental Psychology: The Case of Biophilic Architecture. Review of General Psychology, 11(4), 305-328.