The Benefits of Biophilic Design: Exploring the positive impacts of incorporating natural elements into interior design.

A walk in the woods or laying down on the grass on a fine morning or better yet running around in a garden….

We bet you can smell the crisp air that is filled with an earthy texture and lingers with a flowery scent. Congratulations! You are a biophile- someone who has passionate love for life and all that is alive. Now imagine this feeling in your home or workplace!

This is where Biophilic design comes in. It builds on the principles of Biophilia and aims to reconnect the user with nature through intentional, strategic, and innovative approaches in architecture and interior design.?

Throughout human evolution, man has depended on nature, lived in it, and benefited from it. It is only in the past century that we built cities and habitats that started alienating themselves from nature. And its side-effects are seen and felt today.??

You see, humans require to be in touch with nature, either physically or emotionally for their health. Studies have shown that incorporating nature in the urban fabric, both at macro and micro level lead to reduced stress levels, health and social problems, and improved productivity, cognitive function, and recovery from illness.

So, how do we go about incorporating this design philosophy in our built environment??

There are two dimensions of biophilic design- organic (direct) or place-based (indirect). These were put forth by Stephen R. Kellert, a social ecologist and prominent biophilic design advocate. For example, the organic dimension deals with access to natural light, fresh air, and plants while the place-based dimension deals with things that evoke nature, like materials, shapes and patterns found in nature. These two dimensions are broken down into six key aspects of biophilic design.?

We at Cathect have always sought to practice nature-intensive designs through our projects. And we believe that architecture should be a part of the environment, not separate from it. So, applying the principles of Biophilic design becomes our primary intent.?

Let us understand how aspects of biophilic design can be applied through our projects.?

1. The Natural environment: Focuses on bringing elements of the natural world inside. For example, design elements like skylights that provide natural light, green walls, plants, and the element of water with fountains or ponds.

2. Natural shapes and forms:?Shapes like arches and vaults, and organic forms that mimic geology are incorporated in the infrastructure and design.

3. Natural patterns: Natural patterns deal with patterns and processes that occur in nature. Patterns that enhance sensory variability, like honeycomb or the use of bamboo and cork. Processes that age and change over time, like the oxidation of copper or the natural ageing of wood.?

4. Natural light: This emphasizes light and space, be it the interplay of light or its manipulation. For example, sunlight can be filtered in through lightwells or manipulated through the design of fenestrations.

5. Plants: Incorporating greenery throughout and around the structure. For example, a rooftop garden or a balcony that is attached and offers interaction. Or simple use of indoor plants that break visual starkness and keep the air clean. Additionally, incorporating plants into the built environment improves air quality and helps to mitigate the urban heat island effect.

6. The human-nature relationship: This aspect focuses on our fundamental relationship with nature and how it can be represented in design. Nature gives us a sense of safety and protection, variety with regularity, and curiosity and exploration.?

Incorporating biophilic design into a space does not have to be complicated or expensive. Keeping the above key aspects in mind, designers can significantly impact the look and feel of a space. These spaces are not only aesthetically pleasing but also contribute to improved mental health, productivity, and sustainability. Whether incorporating a vertical garden to add a pop of colour and texture while improving air quality, or natural stone or wood accents to create a sense of warmth and texture, there are numerous ways to incorporate biophilic design into any space.