In a world of brilliant architecture and interior design, a concept that’s been
gaining real momentum over the last few years is biophilic design. Integrating
natural elements in a bid to connect with nature and the outside, is this a fad or
is there a genuine shift in how we approach our surroundings?
gaining real momentum over the last few years is biophilic design. Integrating
natural elements in a bid to connect with nature and the outside, is this a fad or
is there a genuine shift in how we approach our surroundings?
At the core, biophilic design acknowledges our desire to connect with nature and
replicates this in constructed spaces. Beyond the living walls and natural
materials, it encompasses a holistic understanding of how natural light, greenery
and even patterns found in nature can enhance our overall wellbeing. So, is there
a genuine science behind this?
replicates this in constructed spaces. Beyond the living walls and natural
materials, it encompasses a holistic understanding of how natural light, greenery
and even patterns found in nature can enhance our overall wellbeing. So, is there
a genuine science behind this?
The answer is a resounding YES! Scientific research has shown there is a
profound impact on human health and productivity directly linked to their environment.
Exposure to natural elements can reduce stress, enhance cognitive function and
enhance overall mood. Incorporating biophilic elements in workplaces,
offices and schools has been proven to increase
employee satisfaction, boost creativity and productivity, and ultimately benefit
the bottom line. All positive factors, boosted further by the promotion of
sustainability and environmental awareness.
employee satisfaction, boost creativity and productivity, and ultimately benefit
the bottom line. All positive factors, boosted further by the promotion of
sustainability and environmental awareness.
So, if adding biophilic elements into a built-up environment can lead to such
benefits, what’s the best way to incorporate this into our office spaces? While we
don’t all have the budgets of the likes of Amazon and their glass-domed
greenhouse offices (pictured below), there are things we can do to get the ball rolling.
benefits, what’s the best way to incorporate this into our office spaces? While we
don’t all have the budgets of the likes of Amazon and their glass-domed
greenhouse offices (pictured below), there are things we can do to get the ball rolling.
- Plants, flowers and living walls are a great choice if space is at a premium.
Preserved moss walls are becoming more popular as they require no
maintenance once installed.
- Enhance or even increase the amount of natural light that streams into the
building with larger windows, skylights or mirrors placed opposite the
natural light source. Remove curtains, blinds or any other elements that
may block the light and arrange furniture to work with this.
natural light source. Remove curtains, blinds or any other elements that
may block the light and arrange furniture to work with this.
- Use different textures and shapes throughout your space. Zone spaces
with different colours, wood shades and greenery.
- Choose artwork that reflects your theme and incorporates the
natural world.
- Separate spaces using large indoor planters, create walkways, line walls or
even zone a whole area.
It looks like the biophilic era is here to stay, propelled by its scientific foundation
and the vast array of benefits it offers. By harboring the connection between us
and the natural world, biophilic design has the potential to revolutionise our
living and working spaces and beyond.
