How can you use emerging tech to improve biophilic design?

1 Virtual reality

Virtual reality (VR) can create realistic simulations of natural environments that can transport you to different places and times. You can use VR to explore forests, oceans, mountains, or even outer space, and feel the sensations of wind, sound, and movement. VR can also help you design biophilic spaces by allowing you to visualize and test different scenarios and effects before implementing them.

2 Augmented reality

Augmented reality (AR) can overlay digital information and images onto the real world, creating a hybrid reality that can enhance biophilic design. You can use AR to add virtual plants, animals, or landscapes to your space, or to display educational or artistic content related to nature. AR can also help you monitor and control biophilic features such as lighting, temperature, or air quality, by providing real-time feedback and suggestions.

3 Artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) can enable biophilic design to adapt and respond to your needs and preferences, creating a personalized and dynamic environment. You can use AI to analyze your biometric data, such as your heart rate, blood pressure, or mood, and adjust the biophilic elements accordingly. For example, AI can change the color, intensity, or direction of the light, the type or volume of the sound, or the fragrance or humidity of the air, to create the optimal conditions for your comfort and health.

4 Internet of things

Internet of things (IoT) can connect biophilic design elements to the internet and to each other, creating a smart and integrated system that can communicate and coordinate. You can use IoT to control and automate biophilic features such as windows, blinds, fans, or sprinklers, or to collect and share data on the performance and impact of biophilic design. IoT can also help you connect with other biophilic spaces and communities, and exchange ideas and feedback.

5 Biometric sensors

Biometric sensors can measure and track your physical and mental state, and provide insights and recommendations on how to improve your well-being through biophilic design. You can use biometric sensors to monitor your stress level, sleep quality, cognitive function, or emotional state, and see how they are affected by the biophilic elements in your space. Biometric sensors can also help you set and achieve goals related to your health and happiness, and reward you with positive feedback and incentives.

6 Haptic technology

Haptic technology can create tactile sensations that can mimic or enhance the natural feel of biophilic design. You can use haptic technology to touch, feel, and interact with virtual or augmented reality objects, such as plants, animals, or water. Haptic technology can also help you experience different textures, temperatures, or pressures that can stimulate your senses and emotions. Haptic technology can also create vibrations or pulses that can synchronize with your heartbeat or breathing, and create a sense of harmony and balance.

7 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?