How can biophilic design practices increase equity in architecture?

3 The opportunities of biophilia

Despite these challenges, biophilic design also offers many opportunities to increase equity in architecture. One of the ways is to promote social inclusion and cohesion, by creating spaces that foster a sense of belonging, connection, and community among the users. Biophilic design can also enhance the cultural and aesthetic diversity of the built environment, by reflecting the local identity, history, and values of the people and the place. Moreover, biophilic design can empower the users to participate in the design process, by engaging them in co-creation, feedback, and stewardship of the biophilic features.

4 The examples of biophilia

There are many examples of biophilic design projects that demonstrate how it can increase equity in architecture. One of them is the Khoo Teck Puat Hospital in Singapore, which is designed as a healing garden that integrates nature into every aspect of the hospital, from the landscaping, to the ventilation, to the art. The hospital not only provides a therapeutic and comfortable environment for the patients and staff, but also serves as a public park and a community hub for the residents. Another example is the Via Verde affordable housing complex in New York, which features a series of green roofs that provide outdoor spaces, gardens, and amenities for the residents. The complex not only improves the environmental performance and livability of the building, but also creates a sense of pride and ownership among the residents.

5 The principles of biophilia

How can architects apply biophilic design to their projects, especially in urban contexts where access to nature is often limited or unequal? There are some principles and guidelines that can help them achieve this goal. One of them is to use nature as a source of inspiration, by observing and mimicking its forms, patterns, and processes. Another is to use nature as a material, by selecting and using natural or recycled materials that have a low environmental impact and a high aesthetic value. A third is to use nature as a performance, by optimizing the natural systems and cycles that regulate the energy, water, and air quality of the building. A fourth is to use nature as a experience, by creating spaces that stimulate the senses, emotions, and memories of the users.

Biophilic design is a powerful and promising approach to architecture that can increase equity in architecture, by improving the well-being, health, and productivity of the people who use the spaces, as well as reducing the environmental impact of the buildings. By incorporating elements of nature into the built environment, architects can create environments that support the physical and mental well-being of the occupants, as well as the ecological sustainability of the projects. By following some principles and guidelines, architects can also overcome some of the challenges and seize some of the opportunities that biophilic design offers, especially in urban contexts where access to nature is often limited or unequal.