FAQ: Biophilic

Biophilic design is an approach to architecture and interior design that seeks to reconnect people with the natural world within our built environments. It incorporates elements like natural light, plants, water features, natural materials, and views of nature to create healthier, more inspiring spaces.

Research shows that biophilic design offers numerous benefits including:

• Reduced stress and improved mental well-being
• Enhanced productivity and creativity
• Improved air quality and physical health
• Increased connection to nature and environmental awareness

Yes! Biophilic principles can be incorporated into homes, offices, schools, hospitals, commercial spaces, and more. The scale and specific strategies will vary based on the building’s purpose and location.

There are many ways to accomplish this. Here are a few ideas:

• Maximize natural light: Arrange furniture to optimize daylight and views.
• Bring in plants: Houseplants improve air quality and add a touch of nature.
• Natural materials: Use wood, stone, and natural textiles.
• Nature views: Frame windows to highlight outdoor greenery.

Biophilic design doesn’t have to be costly. Simple strategies like adding plants or repositioning furniture for better light can be budget-friendly. Larger-scale elements like green walls or skylights might involve more investment, but the long-term benefits can offset the costs.

Look for architects and interior designers like SBD who specialize in biophilic design. 

Biophilic design strategies fall into categories like:

• Direct experience of nature: Light, air, plants, water, views.
• Indirect experience of nature: Images of nature, natural colors, natural materials.
• Experience of space and place: Organic shapes, spatial configurations that evoke natural environments.

Yes! Certifications like the WELL Building Standard and the Living Building Challenge prioritize biophilic principles and provide frameworks for creating healthy and restorative spaces.

Studies show that biophilic elements can reduce stress hormones, improve attention, increase focus, and promote feelings of calmness and well-being. Scientific articles explain this include:

• Asim, F., Rai, S., & Shree, V. (2021). Biophilic architecture for restoration and therapy within the built environment: a review. http://orcid.org/0000-0001-9424-9445
• Ryan, C. O., Browning, W. D., Clancy, J. O., Andrews, S. L., & Kallianpurkar, N. B. (2014). Biophilic design patterns: emerging nature-based parameters for health and well-being in the built environment. ArchNet-IJAR: International Journal of Architectural Research, 8(2), 62. https://earthwise.education/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Biophilicdesign-patterns.pdf

Biophilia and sustainability are complementary. Biophilic design focuses on human connection to nature, while sustainability aims for responsible resource use. Ideally, both are integrated into a holistic approach to building design.

Real plants offer the most benefits for air quality and psychological well-being. However, high-quality artificial plants can still contribute to an overall biophilic atmosphere, especially in locations where maintaining real plants is difficult.

Yes! It depends primarily on the space and the project. In dense urban areas, biophilic design might focus on key elements such as these:

• Green roofs and vertical gardens: To bring nature into limited spaces.
• Views of parks or urban greenery: Even limited views of nature can be beneficial.
• Natural light design: Strategically placed windows and skylights to maximize daylight.
• Natural ventilation: To improve air quality and create a sense of connection to the outdoors.