Biophilic design: The flawless blend of handbuilt with nature

A way to balance nature and urban living, whilst improving resident’s lifestyle is conceivable 

Throughout the years, architects have been developing design styles that are innovative in both aesthetics and functionality to improve their work. With sustainability now among the main focuses of most industries, architects have devised a style that incorporates green living into buildings: biophilic design. According to Architecture & Design, this concept involves the integration of nature into construction, providing a way for residents to connect with the natural world.

In this method of blending nature with human construction, the focus is on how people can experience nature. There is the direct natural experience, which allows them to interact with nature first-hand despite being in an urban space. There is also the indirect natural experience, which is concentrated on the improvement of mental and physical health from the exposure to nature. Finally, there is the connection with space and place, which focuses on allowing residents to feel more at home and comfortable within both an indoor and outdoor space.

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There are multiple design trends within biophilic design as well, as enumerated by the National Association of Realtors. There could be a focus on visually going green and adding visual elements of plants. Living walls are a concept many millennials like to experiment with by filling a wall with plants they love. Interiors could be lined with natural materials such as stone, wood, quartz, or any element that could reflect its environmental surroundings. Areas could be put aside specifically for meditating and relaxing, and an emphasis could be put on the landscape surrounding the infrastructure. 

This type of design is not just aesthetically pleasing or connects people to nature, it also comes with mental and emotional benefits. Architectural design platform Alvarez-Diaz & Villalon revealed that this design reduces stress and anxiety, promotes physical health and activity, encourages social interaction, enhances productivity, and boosts energy.

Biophilic design is the architect’s way of integrating sustainability into buildings, while connecting people to nature and improving their wellness.

The Property Report editors wrote this article. For more information, email: [email protected].