How can you avoid common myths about sustainable and biophilic design for commercial interiors?

1 Myth 1: Sustainable design is expensive and complicated

One of the most prevalent myths about sustainable design is that it is too costly and complex to implement. However, this is not necessarily true. Sustainable design can actually save you money in the long run by reducing energy consumption, water usage, waste generation, and maintenance costs. Moreover, sustainable design can be simple and elegant, as long as you follow some basic principles, such as using natural materials, optimizing natural light and ventilation, and choosing durable and recyclable products.

2 Myth 2: Biophilic design is just about adding plants

Another common myth about biophilic design is that it is only about incorporating plants and greenery into your commercial interiors. While plants are certainly an important element of biophilic design, they are not the only one. Biophilic design is a holistic approach that aims to connect humans with nature in various ways, such as using natural shapes, colors, textures, patterns, and sounds, creating views and access to outdoor spaces, and stimulating the senses and emotions. Therefore, biophilic design requires more than just adding plants; it requires a careful consideration of the human-nature relationship.

3 Myth 3: Sustainable and biophilic design are incompatible

Some people may think that sustainable and biophilic design are mutually exclusive or contradictory. However, this is not the case. Sustainable and biophilic design are actually complementary and synergistic, as they both share the same goal of enhancing the well-being of people and the planet. By combining sustainable and biophilic design, you can create commercial interiors that are not only efficient and responsible, but also attractive and inspiring. For example, you can use renewable energy sources, such as solar panels or wind turbines, to power your biophilic features, such as waterfalls or fountains. Or you can use recycled or reclaimed materials, such as wood or metal, to create biophilic forms, such as curves or arches.

4 Myth 4: Sustainable and biophilic design are one-size-fits-all

Another myth about sustainable and biophilic design is that they are universal and standardized solutions that can be applied to any commercial interior project. However, this is not true. Sustainable and biophilic design are context-specific and customized solutions that depend on various factors, such as the location, climate, culture, function, and users of the space. Therefore, sustainable and biophilic design require a thorough analysis and evaluation of the site conditions, the client's needs and preferences, and the user's behavior and expectations. By doing so, you can create sustainable and biophilic commercial interiors that are relevant, appropriate, and meaningful.

5 Myth 5: Sustainable and biophilic design are trends that will fade away

The last myth about sustainable and biophilic design is that they are just passing fads that will soon lose their appeal and relevance. However, this is not true. Sustainable and biophilic design are not trends, but rather paradigms that reflect the changing values and demands of the society and the market. As the awareness and concern for the environmental and social issues increase, so does the demand for commercial interiors that are sustainable and biophilic. Moreover, as the research and evidence for the benefits of sustainable and biophilic design grow, so does the recognition and appreciation for these design approaches. Therefore, sustainable and biophilic design are not trends that will fade away, but rather principles that will guide the future of commercial interior design.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?