Designing with Nature: Elevating Spaces with Biophilia
“It’s human nature to be drawn to nature.”
-Dr. Caresse Spencer
What do we mean by “Biophilia” and “Biophilic Design”?
Biophilic design is one of the gateways to wellness and healing. Why? Because our surroundings impact us more than we realize, from our physical health to our mood to our productivity to our creativity. Therefore, when we think about creating environments for optimal health and wellbeing, we should design with biophilia in mind. But, what does that really mean?
“Biophilia” describes our human affinity and love for life, while biophilic design translates that love into tangible aspects of our surroundings that connect us to nature.
“Biophilia (n). - The human desire or tendency to connect with other life forms and commune with nature”
“Biophilic Design (n). - An approach to architecture, interior design, and planning that focuses on connecting humans with nature and natural surroundings”
Principles of Biophilic Design
According to Terrapin Bright Green, here are three universally accepted principles of biophilic design:
1. Nature in the space
This principle involves the concept of bringing the outdoors in and using specific design elements like plants and/or flowers to allow people to organically connect with an environment. Additionally, the presence of water, sensory stimuli, and varying lighting intensities are examples of ways to incorporate nature in the space.
2. Nature of the space
This principle relates to the intentional design of spaces for prospect and refuge, which may include a quiet, reading nook or calm resting place with a view of the surroundings.
3. Natural analogues
This principle includes the imitation of forms, geometries, colors, patterns, textures, shapes, and materials that naturally occur outdoors. Examples include lines or texture in wallpaper mimicking those on a leaf or the subtle curvature of a bannister made out of natural wood.
Biophilic Design in Action: Real World Examples
In the home
Open layout kitchen, dining room, and living room
Mixing and matching decor made of natural materials can enhance the feeling of home and provide a sense of comfort and wellbeing.
In the workplace and office
Lobby of an office building in Washington, DC
Use of biophilia in office spaces can boost productivity and creativity while providing a sense of calm.
In healthcare
New inpatient building completed in March 2023 at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) in Boston, MA
Designs that provide ample natural light through oversized windows and access to courtyards and outdoor spaces enhance patient experiences by reducing stress and lengths of stay.
In travel, leisure, and hospitality
Lobby of Santa Monica Proper Hotel in CA
Social spaces that use elements of biophilic design are more inviting and aesthetically pleasing to guests.
In community
The Beltline in Atlanta, GA
Community designs that seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor architecture and incorporate spaces for exercise can boost mental and physical health, as well as overall individual and community wellbeing.