The integration of nature into our built environment is becoming more than just an idea, in fact, more and more property owners and designers are creating nature-inspired spaces as a priority. Bringing nature into design is a philosophic concept, known as ‘biophilic architecture’. Its aim is to help connect more people to nature through buildings, design and furnishings.
The concept of “biophilia,” was first popularized by biologist E.O. Wilson in the 1980s and has gained significant traction in recent years. As cities continue to expand and densify, the importance of biophilic design in creating sustainable, livable urban environments has never been more necessary.
From towering vertical forests to buildings seamlessly integrated with local ecosystems, biophilic architecture is reshaping our cities and our relationship with the built environment. In this article we’ll explore the practices and benefits of biophilic design, looking more closely at how it can transform our urban spaces and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle.
Principles and Benefits of Biophilic Design
The concept of biophilic design is to create spaces which help us connect with nature. This goes a little further than simply putting potted plants in a space. There are in fact 3 principles behind the idea:
- Direct connection with nature – Design elements like plants, water features, and natural light are key contributors to encouraging a direct connection with the outdoors. They each help stimulate multiple senses, giving us a similar experience of being in nature, even though we’re indoors.
- Natural analogues – This principle focuses on using representations or simulations of nature. It can include the use of natural materials, colors, patterns, and shapes that evoke nature without directly replicating it. For example, this could involve using wood finishes, nature-inspired textiles, or organic forms in architectural elements.
- Nature of the space – This principle involves creating spaces that provoke a similar feeling to those we get outdoors. For example, wide open views or warm protected areas – perhaps even obstructed paths which encourage exploration).
Benefits of Biophilic Design
It may seem like quite a strange concept at first, but incorporating just some of these strategies in design and architecture can have a range of benefits. Here are just a few:
Improved well-being and productivity
Biophilic design has been shown to significantly enhance the well-being of those who use the space, boosting productivity in many cases. In office environments, for example, employees working in spaces with natural elements report higher levels of concentration, creativity, and job satisfaction.
Enhanced air quality
Indoor vegetation plays a crucial role in improving air quality within buildings. Plants act as natural air purifiers, absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. Moreover, certain plant species are particularly effective at removing common indoor air pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene. This natural air filtration system contributes to healthier indoor environments, reducing the risk of respiratory issues and allergies.
Increased property value
Buildings incorporating biophilic design principles often have higher property values and rental rates. The unique aesthetic appeal, combined with the health and well-being benefits, makes these properties more desirable to potential buyers and tenants.
Energy efficiency and sustainability
While not always the primary focus, biophilic design elements can contribute to a building’s energy efficiency. Green roofs and walls provide natural insulation, reducing heating and cooling costs. Optimized natural lighting reduces the need for artificial lighting during daylight hours. These features not only lower energy consumption but also contribute to the overall sustainability of the building.
With so many benefits, it makes sense that more property owners and designers should be looking to these principles for inspiration. As we continue to spend more time indoors, on a global scale, it’s important that our environment is as healthy as possible.
Sustainability and Biophilic Design
Biophilic architecture not only enhances our well-being but also plays a crucial role in promoting sustainability. By integrating natural elements and systems, these design choices contribute to energy efficiency, resource conservation, and overall environmental performance.
Energy efficiency through natural cooling and shading
Biophilic designs often incorporate natural cooling and shading strategies, reducing the need for artificial climate control. Green facades and strategically placed vegetation can provide natural shade, lowering indoor temperatures and decreasing cooling loads. For instance, deciduous trees planted near buildings offer shade in summer while allowing sunlight to penetrate in winter, optimizing energy use year-round.
Improved insulation with green roofs and walls
Green roofs and living walls serve as natural insulators, enhancing a building’s thermal performance. These vegetated surfaces reduce heat gain in summer and heat loss in winter, leading to significant energy savings.
Renewable energy integration
Biophilic architecture often goes hand-in-hand with renewable energy solutions, creating synergies that enhance overall sustainability. For example, combining solar panels with green roofs can increase the efficiency of photovoltaic systems. The vegetation helps maintain cooler temperatures, which improves solar panel performance.
Properties can also benefit when they replace a boiler with a heat pump. Air-source heat pumps, which extract heat from the outside air, can be an excellent alternative to traditional boilers. These systems are particularly effective when combined with biophilic elements like green walls, which can help regulate indoor temperature and humidity. They also encourage the use of renewable energy sources as an alternative to heavy emission fuels.
Rainwater harvesting and management
Biophilic designs often incorporate systems for collecting and managing rainwater. Green roofs can retain up to 90% of precipitation, reducing stormwater runoff and alleviating pressure on urban drainage systems. Collected rainwater can be used for irrigation, reducing the demand for potable water.
The Future of Design?
The rise of biophilic architecture represents a fundamental shift in our approach to designing and constructing the built environment. By reconnecting with nature, these design concepts are not just creating more aesthetically pleasing spaces, but are actively improving our health, well-being, and productivity.
As we look to the future, biophilic design has huge potential to reshape our cities. The integration of smart technologies and adaptation to diverse climates may just point to a future where our built environment works in harmony with nature rather than in opposition to it.
