Biophilic Design
What even is that?
Ever wondered what about an ocean view makes it so valuable that people will literally pay hundreds of thousands more for a property so they can simply stare at it? Why do we do that?
“Biophilia,” by it’s Latin root word definition translates as "bio," meaning life, and "philia," meaning love or attraction. Biologist Edward O. Wilson coined the term in his 1984 book of the same name. He describes a belief that humans are genetically predisposed to be attracted to and need nature.
Recognizing this fundamental human disposition, biophilic design aims to enhance well-being, productivity and overall quality of life by reconnecting people with nature through architecture and interior design.
What are its Benefits?
Improved
Well-Being
Biophilic design has been shown to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and promote overall mental and physical health by providing access to natural elements such as greenery and sunlight.
Increased
Productivity
Spaces designed with biophilic principles tend to enhance cognitive function, creativity, and focus, leading to higher levels of productivity and performance in work and educational environments.
Enhanced
Sustainability
By incorporating natural materials, passive design strategies, and energy-efficient systems, biophilic design can contribute to reducing environmental impact and fostering sustainable living practices
Elevated
Mood
Incorporating natural elements in the built environment has documented perceived improvements in mental health, comfort, safety and overall happiness
Key Patterns of Biophilic Design*
Direct & Indirect Nature
Visual and non-visual (auditory, haptic and olfactory) stimuli offered by nature, living systems and natural processes.
Biomorphic Forms & Patterns
Symbolic references to contoured, patterned, textured or numerical arrangements that persist in nature.
Prospect and Refuge
Providing spaces that offer both a sense of openness (prospect) and security (refuge), mimicking the environments where humans evolved.
Thermal & Airflow Variability
Subtle changes in air temperature, relative humidity, airflow across the skin, and surface temperatures than mimic natural environments.
Dynamic & Diffused Light
Leverages varying intensities of light and shadow that change over time to create conditions that occur in nature
Material Connection
Materials and elements from nature that, through minimal processing, reflect the local ecology or geology and create a distinct sense of place
Rediscovering
the Intuitively Obvious *
Sara enjoys educating people about biophilic design because it provides an innately understood human connection to nature, gives it a name and outlines strategic design principles to promote the intrinsic wellness attributes nature provides the human experience.
There is a strong body of research documenting stress reduction, cognitive performance, and emotional mood enhancement in the built environment through exposure to biophilic design patterns. Find more resources at the bottom of this page.
Biophilic Design in Action
State & Laurel Cowork
This quaint 900 SF shared office space provided Lush an opportunity to showcase biophilic design in action. Unified with a deep green and terracotta color palette, and clear finished maple throughout, few walk into the office for the first time without commenting on the serenity and welcome enjoyed by its occupants.
Lake Stevens Residence
Blessed with a client similarly inspired by and drawn to natural materials, Lush had the pleasure of beautifying this lakeside residence with an abundance of organic textures, materials and colors to sooth the mind and soul amid an otherwise bustling family energy.
Interested in learning more about Biophilic Design?
Resources
Explore a curated list of resources to learn more about biophilic design and its ubiquitous presence, from urban landscapes to interior spaces. Discover how architects, designers, and researchers are integrating nature-inspired elements into buildings and public areas to enhance well-being and sustainability. Enjoy a mix of scientifically researched reporting and biophilia in pop culture.
14 Patterns of Biophilic Design
Biophilic design can reduce stress, enhance creativity and clarity of thought, improve our well-being and expedite healing; as the world population continues to urbanize, these qualities are ever more important. Theorists, research scientists, and design practitioners have been working for decades to define aspects of nature that most impact our satisfaction with the built environment.
The Economics of Biophilia, 2nd Ed.
In The Economics of Biophilia, we share several examples of small investments involving very low or no up-front cost, such as providing employees access to plants, natural views, daylight, and other biophilic design elements. These measures provide very healthy returns. Integrating views to nature into an office space can save over $2,000 per employee per year in office costs, whereas over $93 million could be saved annually in healthcare costs as a result of providing patients with views to nature.
Get in touch
Curious how Biophilic Design can enhance wellbeing in your living or working environment? Let's dive in and discuss how we can capture the myriad of benefits and exciting possibilities in this health focused discipline.