Biophilic Design: What Is It and Why Do You Need It in Your Life?
Ok what’s the deal with Biophilic Design?
Have you ever wondered why you might be soothed by the sound of birds or the scent of fresh earth after rain?
Let me offer another thought: Imagine standing in the woods, when suddenly the birds stop chirping. What feeling might that trigger? Concern? Alarm?
Think about it. Birds chirping and fresh rain signal signs of life and the health of our ecosystems. These experiences evoke a sense of calmness and trigger positive emotional responses. Why? Simply put, it’s ingrained in our human psyche. This phenomenon can be attributed to our evolutionary history as beings deeply intertwined with the natural world. Over hundreds of thousands of years, our ancestors relied on nature for sustenance, shelter, and survival. As a result, our brains and bodies have developed a deep-rooted connection to the natural world. Makes sense, right?!
In contrast, we now spend about 90% of our time indoors. Let that sink in.
Spending the majority of our lives being stimulated by technology and highly artificial built environments doesn’t come without its consequences. Countless studies show the inherent connection between nature and our mental and physical well-being. (TLDR: Nature = good for us. Nature depletion = bad for us). And with upwards of 70% of the global population projected to be living in cities by 2050, we need to be taking this into serious consideration- for the sake of our health, and for the sake of the planet. The results are in folks: We are in desperate need of reconnecting with nature.
That’s where biophilic design comes in. Biophilia (a term coined by biologist E.O. Wilson in 1984) refers to the innate human desire to connect with nature. Using decades of research in environmental psychology, Biophilic Design recognizes this affinity and seeks to incorporate natural elements, patterns, and principles into the built environment to increase well-being. It is not simply about adding a few plants or natural materials to our surroundings. It goes far beyond that- infusing our built environments with elements that evoke feelings of comfort, harmony, and connection. By integrating the understanding of our relationship to nature, biophilic design brings the essence of the outdoors into our indoor spaces, creating environments that promote healing and rejuvenation.
What are the benefits?
Oh, there are PLENTY. Here we go:
Stress Reduction. Being in nature or in environments that mimic nature has been scientifically proven to reduce stress levels, lower blood pressure, and promote relaxation. Biophilic design brings the calming effects of nature into your daily life, helping you find balance amidst the chaos of modern living.
Enhanced Healing. Biophilic design has shown positive effects on healing processes. In healthcare settings, patients surrounded by natural elements and views of nature have reported reduced pain, decreased recovery time, and improved overall well-being.
Enhanced Well-being. The presence of nature-inspired elements promotes feelings of happiness, contentment, and emotional well-being. It can also help reduce symptoms of depression and improve overall life satisfaction.
Improved Cognitive Function. Studies have indicated that biophilic environments can enhance cognitive function, including improved concentration, attention span, and problem-solving abilities. Being in spaces that mimic nature can enhance overall mental performance.
Boosted Productivity. By incorporating biophilic elements into workspaces, productivity can significantly increase. Natural light, greenery, and views of nature can improve focus, motivation, and job satisfaction, leading to higher levels of productivity and efficiency.
Increased Creativity. Biophilic design stimulates creativity and innovation by fostering a sense of inspiration and connection to the natural world. Natural elements and patterns can spark imaginative thinking and encourage fresh perspectives.
Improved Physical Health. Biophilic design can have physical health benefits. Access to natural light helps regulate circadian rhythms, promoting better sleep quality and overall health. Additionally, exposure to nature and green spaces has been linked to increased physical activity, reducing the risk of sedentary-related health issues.
Better Air Quality. Integrating plants, natural ventilation systems, and natural materials can enhance indoor air quality by filtering out pollutants, improving oxygen levels, and lowering exposure to toxins. This can lead to a healthier indoor environment, reducing the risk of respiratory problems and allergies.
Increased Connection to Nature. Biophilic design allows individuals to reconnect with nature in urban or indoor settings. This connection promotes a sense of environmental stewardship and a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
Sustainable Living. Biophilic design aligns with sustainable practices by prioritizing the use of natural materials, energy-efficient solutions, and ecological balance. It supports a more sustainable and environmentally conscious lifestyle.
Creating healing spaces is a journey…
If you’ve read this far, I hope I’ve planted a seed or two - that I’ve sparked some curiosity and interest in the harmonious relationship we have with nature. It’s my mission to harness the power of nature to create healing oases for people and to foster connection to the natural world..
Stay tuned for more!