Biophilic design: What is it? Why it matters? And how do we use it?

Have you ever surrendered to nature’s tranquility in search of relief or relaxation? How do you feel hiking in the mountains or running along the seashore? Do the vast ocean, lush forests, and rapid creeks put you in awe or at ease? Does spending a few minutes outside impact your mood?

Nature used to be all around us. Technically, it still is, though the quality of the nature that surrounds us has changed. Currently, 54 percent of the world’s population live in an urban environment. By 2050, it’s estimated that percentage will increase to 66 percent—two thirds of the world’s population! Generally, humans spend 93 percent of our time indoors separated from natural elements.

Edmonton International Airport Terminal mural that depicts natural elements.

This issue represents an unhealthy byproduct of our current societal behavior. As we continue to move toward the city and spend more time indoors, our day-to-day interaction with quality nature is shrinking. Ultimately, this is increasing our potential to experience psychological and physiological harm. How can we work to reverse this trend and improve the overall well-being of our communities?

One contemporary concept is biophilic design, a strategic approach to tap into—and harness—nature in the built environment.

What is biophilic design?

The biophilia hypothesis proposes that most humans have an innate love of nature—we long for it and without connecting with it, our health could suffer. So, biophilic design is an applied solution to appease this desire for nature by integrating natural elements and processes into the built environment.

Biophilic design can be implemented at the community, building, or small-project level. And if done right, the design should trigger a strong positive impact on our health and well-being.

The challenge? Clearly defining biophilic design and how people may or may not respond to its many opportunities. Many researchers have characterized biophilic design and identified what they believe make up a biophilic space. Two thought leaders (Stephen Kellert and Elizabeth Calabrese) recently categorized strategies into three major experiences: direct experience of nature, indirect experience of nature, and experience of space and place. In this blog, I’m going to focus on the first two experiences and how to bring biophilic design into any work environment.

Biophilic design in practice at the BP Lower 48 new office in Denver, Colorado. Plants in the living wall provide a direct experience of nature. (Photo: David Lauer Photography)

Biophilic Design Allows for Direct Experiences of Nature

In the built environment, direct experiences of nature refer to plants, light, water—any aspect that provides direct contact with green elements. It can even include natural air movement! These are features we should bring to our clients’ work environments, whether educational, healthcare, or industrial buildings.

— Plants are beneficial because they are living, breathing organisms. Studies have shown that plants enhance creativity, performance, and productivity—something we want to increase in our office and home environments. 

— Views of direct nature and experiencing daylight also have a strong impact on environmental psychology. In 1984, Roger Ulrich conducted a study that posited that healthcare patients with views of green nature recovered faster than those viewing a brick wall. When designing a new building, do we take our neighbors views into consideration?

— Water and airflow also play key roles in biophilic design. Whether incorporating an indoor river or adding natural airflow to a building, these aspects help round out the natural ambiance.

As our individual buildings form a larger community, I believe we need to start addressing these issues and thinking about how we can help our clients maximize day-to-day experiences with nature.

Specialized Services for Children and Youth in Winnipeg, Manitoba, where outdoor space is enhanced with additional biophilic-design elements.

Biophilic Design Also Allows for Indirect Experiences of Nature

Beyond the obvious—and direct—elements of biophilic design, there are also opportunities to provide indirect experiences of nature. This is where some very exciting strategies come into play, such as natural materials like wood and earth, or even images of nature. Indirect experiences provide excellent solutions to spaces where plants are not desired or views of nature and access to a window aren’t feasible. 

— The prospect and refuge approach that creates a shelter for those who do not want to be seen by others. Simply put, the concept caters to individuals on the most introverted end of the spectrum who like seeing people but may dislike not having a shelter—especially against their backs.

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— Sounds and smells contribute to a multi-sensory, biophilic experience. Though most research has focused on the visual sense, natural sounds and smells also have a role to play in building design and operations.

Whereas sight and touch are very much controlled by the individual, indirect experiences aren’t always as controllable. They can be beneficial, providing the specific location, user group, and duration of use have all been carefully considered. Make sure to run these ideas by your neighbors!

Bringing nature to work

OK, so now that we understand just how important nature is to the built environment, let’s get to work! Here are five tips and tricks to help you easily bring in biophilic strategies to your work environment.  

1. Open the blinds. Although we may experience glare at certain points throughout the day, remember to open your blinds up again after the glare is gone.

2. Buy a plant (or two or three). When you take a break, your eyes are more likely to wander over to your greenery, affording you a mini-restorative experience. (Hint: good plants are peace lilies, snake plants, or orchids.)

3. Decorate with images of nature. Try to include awe-inspiring images, or perhaps nature that evokes curiosity.

4. Listen to natural sounds like running water or airflows, which can be quite tranquil in the workplace. Note: these sounds may be distracting your neighbors, so use headphones!

5. Get outside. Go experience the real deal! While this doesn’t really affect our workstations, many of us fall into the trap of spending the entire day at our desks. Getting outside for even a 20-minute walk will help your performance throughout the day and may help you sleep better at night.