Design that enables us to be better at our jobs, feel connected and more in tune is particularly intriguing. Biophilic design challenges thinking and stimulates design exploration. A space shines and comes to life when natural elements like wood and water are introduced. Central to biophilic design are the 14 foundational patterns of biophilia, and these patterns can be implemented in countless ways. Rooted in science, implementation of the 14 patterns can reduce stress, improve cognitive function and creativity. A mixing of biophilic elements creates a multi-sensorial experience that will maximize the benefits of biophilia.
3 Examples of Nature Indoors
Khoo Teck Puat Hospital in Singapore is an unforgettable example of commercial biophilic design. Thanks to the abundance of greenery and natural light, the building feels less like a hospital and more like a forest. This is a prime example of what biophilia looks like when several patterns are working together and is an inspiration for anyone interested in the possibilities of biophilic design.
Allegro Group headquarter in Warsaw, Poland: The presence of plant life is an essential aspect to biophilic design. Plants make a big difference and improve indoor environmental quality. Combining daylight with greenery is especially effective. Daylight not only illuminates plant life but also has numerous biophilic benefits of its own, including mood improvement and increased productivity.
Variety in plant life is also key. Potted plants, hanging plants, and living walls can all work together to help an indoor environment resemble the outdoors more closely.
From The Small Garden.com in Australia: “Lush trees and living wall/garden combination transform this minimalist hallway into a natural paradise.”
This approach has long been adopted by some of the world’s top architects and designers, including Perkins+Will’s Ken Hudson and renowned designer Oliver Heath. Many experts consider biophilic design to be the future of interior design, and given the many benefits that biophilia provides, it’s easy to see why.
Originally published: https://medium.com/@InteriorElegan