Biophilic design – the architectural approach that seeks to connect occupants more closely to nature through careful use of natural organisms, materials and processes – is nothing new. The ancient Hanging Gardens of Babylon are arguably an example of biophilic architecture. However, in contemporary design, the expanding influence of the biophilic approach is certainly noteworthy.
Reflecting the precarious environmental situation we find ourselves in, an increasing number of architects, designers, and specifiers are incorporating biophilic design into their work, and biophilic features are becoming more common. It may mark a radical departure from the architectural forms and movements that dominated the last century, which often prioritised sharp, clean lines and relied on environmentally damaging materials.
Understanding biophilic design
Biophilic design involves more than incorporating plant life into a space (though that certainly is one aspect) and encapsulates diverse design features, processes and practices. It includes the use of natural light, materials, patterns, textures and vegetation, as well as organic shapes that regularly occur in nature, such as arches, curves and fractal designs. At the same time, constructions can appropriate heating and ventilation systems from nature, allow for views of the surrounding environment and provide easy access to outdoor spaces.
While biophilic design and green architecture share some common characteristics, they are distinct concepts. Whereas biophilic design focuses on the way people experience and relate to the built environment and aims to connect individuals to nature through that environment, green architecture emphasises a building’s carbon footprint. It seeks to reduce the environmental cost of construction through the use of sustainable materials and building practices. In other words, the goals and techniques used in biophilic design and green architecture overlap but are not always aligned.
The benefits associated with biophilic design
Research suggests that biophilic design benefits individuals in the built environment extensively.
Our Specification manager Calvin Dalrymple is particularly passionate about biophilic design and states “While we may not give credit to the impact that nature has on us, we all know that being amongst nature makes us feel better. After a busy day/week in the office, being in green space helps to re-calibrate our minds and bodies. The introduction of soft landscaping into terrace and podium design increases the access we have to nature and encourages biodiversity within our built environment. Additionally, it helps to reduce the urban heat island effect and combat climate change.”
Mental health
In general, biophilic environments reduce stress and anxiety and have a restorative effect on individuals with access to those spaces. In many cases, the positive restorative effect is immediate (ScienceDirect). This is backed by numerous studies. For instance, in hospitals, providing access to a view of nature was shown to reduce patients’ perception of depression and pain, cutting the average hospital stay by a day (AIMS). Studies also show that children who have access to residential green spaces are at significantly lower risk of developing psychiatric disorders later in life (PNAS).
Environmental
Biophilic design stresses the use of natural materials, which are often more sustainable than conventional alternatives. It also prioritises energy-efficient systems and passive design strategies to reduce a building’s energy consumption. The emphasis on native plants and wildlife enhances biodiversity and the presence of green spaces is thought to encourage more environmentally friendly habits and behaviours among those with access to biophilic spaces.
Productivity
Early research also suggests that biophilic design impacts employee productivity in workplaces. One influential study reported a 15% improvement in worker productivity when plants were incorporated into the office space. On a more basic level, colours most readily associated with nature – greens and yellows – can positively impact creativity and attention span (SPSP).
Examples of contemporary biophilic architecture
Groundbreaking architects were experimenting with biophilic design long before the approach was formally named. For instance, Frank Lloyd Wright’s spectacular Fallingwater integrates a stream and waterfall into the design, with the natural sound of flowing water intended to fill the building and connect the residents to nature. In Milan, the famous Bosco Verticale – the Vertical Forest – is another excellent example. This distinctive tower design is covered in more than 90 species of tree and plant life, making it a living, breathing shrine to biophilic design. Or, as the architect Stefano Boeri described it, “a house for trees inhabited by humans”.
On a grander scale, the city-state of Singapore has been lauded for its integration of biophilic design principles into the wider city environment. While the striking Khoo Teck Puat Hospital is a single instance of Singapore’s commitment to biophilic architecture, this ‘City in a Garden’ is focused on connecting green spaces, incorporating green roofs and hanging gardens into high-rise buildings, and carefully balancing population expansion, urban development and the natural environment.
Towards a biophilic future
Architects, designers and specifiers can incorporate biophilic design into projects at every level, starting small with bespoke planter systems for outdoor spaces and moving right up to city-wide initiatives. As our understanding of the environmental crisis develops and more information concerning the negative health implications associated with traditional urban environments comes to light, biophilic ideas will become more prominent. While the concept has already had a noticeable impact on modern architecture, its influence is set to grow in the coming years.
Realising biophilic designs with RYNO
At RYNO, we boast unparalleled balcony and terracing expertise, helping construction professionals realise their biophilic designs using innovative technologies and solutions. By ensuring our materials and systems comply with your specifications and legal requirements when it comes to fire rating and wind uplift, we provide the base on which your biophilic designs are built.
Contact the RYNO team to discuss your design needs and how RYNO can make your vision a reality.
