How does it feel to be in the midst of nature? A walk on the beach or a stroll through a rainforest, smelling flowers or feeling the soil between our fingers can awaken the innermost feelings of happiness and peace.
Today, we spend an estimated 11 hours a day on technology and up to 93% of our time is spent indoors. Can you find the missing piece of puzzle that can set things right? The answer is human connection with Nature.
How would you feel if you would be at work while being in the midst of nature? Biophilic Design incorporates the elements of nature into the built environment with the objective to promote human health and wellbeing by reconnecting with nature.
Origin of Biophilic Design
The term "biophilia" was coined by the biologist Edward O. Wilson in his 1984 book Biophilia: The Human Bond with Nature. Wilson opined that humans have a deep-seated need for connection with nature, and that this need can have a profound impact on our physical and mental health.
Components of Biophilic Design
Biophilic design can be branched into 3 broad parts:
Nature in the Space- It takes into account the direct physical contact with nature from within an interior. This workplace design includes stimulating views to elements of nature, living systems and natural processes, such as a window with a garden or sea view, potted plants, flower beds, courtyard gardens, green walls and green roofs. It also incorporates Non visual connection with nature such as the senses of sound, touch, smell and taste to remind us of our connection to nature.
Natural Analogues- This workplace design establishes an indirect connection to nature by incorporating nature in design elements such as artwork, furniture etc. that create a cue to the brain that sparks the same sense of well-being as the natural world.
Credit: MyFresko
Nature of the Space- As humans, we are fascinated with the unknown and wish to see beyond our immediate surroundings. Nature of the space takes into account Obscured views, design revelations, installations and moments of mystery, risk or peril. For example, an infinity pool or a glass floor can provide a balance between a sense of risk and the feeling of protection. Another example would be a glass wall overlooking a city skyline triggers the rush of living and working on the edge!
Source: Freepik Patterns and Examples of Biophilic Design
The concept of biophilic design has been gaining popularity in recent years, as more and more world renowned architects and Architecture firms have started using the concepts of Biophilic design.
Research Studies supporting Biophilic Design
Various studies have supported the use of Biophilic design to enhance the wellness of employees:
A study by the Human Spaces research firm, found that employees who worked in offices with biophilic design elements were 6% more productive than those who worked in offices without Biophilic design elements. The study also found that employees who worked in biophilic offices reported feeling more relaxed and inspired, and they were less likely to experience stress or fatigue.
University of Exeter, found that employees who worked in offices with plants were 15% more productive than those who worked in offices without plants. The study also found that employees who worked in offices with plants reported feeling more comfortable and less stressed.
A study by the University of Pennsylvania found that call center employees who worked in a biophilic environment had a 15% increase in productivity and a 30% decrease in stress levels.
About Vanguard Design
Established in 2010, Vanguard Design is a firm that focuses on urban design, architecture, and interior design. Our expertise lies in crafting inspirational, functional, and sustainable designs with a futuristic touch for a wide range of projects, encompassing product design, architecture, and urban planning. Our creations are guided by a blend of aesthetic and functionalist innovation.
very curious. great points on a better design and usefullness for general joy
Love these designs,
The nature in a work space, the positive energy, the greenery are all amazing features of biophilic design, I love it...
I like the openness of these choices. If I were living outside a city, they would be perfect.
I love being in nature and I wish my office was surrounded by the forest! However, I will be adding a plant to my desk.