A bridge back to nature: The essence of biophilic home design
Biophilic design goes beyond merely incorporating greenery indoors; it offers a holistic approach aimed at reconnecting modern living with our innate bond to nature. In this first instalment of a four-part series, architect Fiona Gray explains the origins and key elements of biophilic design.
Welcome to the transformative realm of biophilic home design! In this series we will delve into the essence of biophilic design, examining its core principles and practical applications to create environments that promote wellbeing and are in harmony with the natural world.
The development of a concept
The concept of biophilia has deep historical roots, tracing back to our earliest ancestors who lived in close harmony with nature. This intrinsic connection to the natural world has been a constant throughout human history, influencing our art, architecture, and lifestyles. However, it was not until the 20th century that the term ‘biophilia’ was brought to prominence by German psychoanalyst Erich Fromm. Fromm described biophilia as the “passionate love of life and of all that is alive”. His work laid the foundation for understanding biophilia as a fundamental aspect of human psychology.
The idea was subsequently adopted by American biologist Edward O. Wilson, who suggested that this human inclination to affiliate with natural life forms has a genetic basis. Yale Professor and social ecologist Stephen Kellert further expanded on the concept, exploring how biophilic design can be applied to create environments that support our innate need to connect with nature. Kellert's framework for biophilic design has been instrumental in guiding architects and designers in the creation of spaces that foster a sense of wellbeing and environmental stewardship.
Biophilia as a design solution
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, our connection to nature has been eroded. Urbanisation and technology have cocooned us in artificial environments, distancing us from the natural rhythms and sensory experiences that once grounded us. Building practices have often prioritised function and economy over harmony with nature, resulting in spaces that neglect our inherent biophilic needs. However, biophilic design offers a solution by creating environments that engage our senses and foster a profound connection with nature. This design philosophy aims for a harmonious symbiosis between our living spaces and the natural world, transcending the limitations of a specific architectural style.
The advantages of biophilic design are multifaceted, with significant impacts on both human health and the environment. Research in environmental psychology and related disciplines has provided ample evidence of the positive effects of incorporating natural elements into our built environments. For instance, studies have shown that biophilic design can markedly reduce stress levels in occupants, with natural settings and elements helping to lower blood pressure and heart rate, promote relaxation, and decrease the production of stress hormones. In terms of mental health, integrating aspects of nature into everyday spaces has been associated with enhanced mood and reduced incidence of anxiety and depression. Additionally, biophilic design can positively affect cognitive function, as natural environments stimulate the brain differently to artificial ones, supporting improved memory, creativity, and capacity for attention.
From an environmental perspective, biophilic design principles encourage the use of sustainable materials, energy efficiency, and water conservation. Green roofs and walls, for example, not only improve air quality but also act as natural insulation, reducing the need for heating and cooling. This symbiosis between architectural design and nature promotes biodiversity, supports ecosystems, and contributes to the mitigation of urban heat islands, leading to healthier urban environments. By emphasising local materials and reducing reliance on non-renewable resources, biophilic design helps to minimise the ecological footprint of buildings.
Applying biophilic design ideas
To apply the principles of biophilic design in a practical and systematic manner, several frameworks have been established. The framework developed by Kellert provides a holistic view, encompassing six key elements with around 70 attributes in total. Here's how each of the key elements might manifest in a residential setting:
Environmental features
This includes integrating natural elements like water features, indoor plants, or gardens that bring a piece of the outdoors inside. Natural ventilation and the use of natural materials such as wood, stone, or bamboo can enhance the connection to nature while also contributing to a healthier indoor environment.
Natural shapes and forms
Integrating organic shapes and forms such as curved walls, arches, or botanical motifs can infuse a sense of softness and fluidity into the home. These elements act as visual reminders of the natural world and can be incorporated through architectural design, furniture selection, or decorative elements.
Natural patterns and processes
Embracing natural patterns, like the fractal designs found in the branching of a tree or the structure of a snowflake, can add a layer of complexity and beauty to a home. Allowing the natural ageing and patina of materials to show, or designing spaces for sensory variability, can also enhance the biophilic experience.
Light and space
Maximising natural light through windows, skylights, or light wells can create a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, changing the ambiance of a space throughout the day. Designing spaces with a sense of openness while also providing cosy, enclosed areas can create a sense of spatial variety that caters to different needs and moods.
Place-based relationships
Incorporating elements that reflect the unique history, ecology, or culture of the home’s location can create a sense of belonging and connection to the broader environment. Using locally sourced materials or designs that resonate with the local landscape can deepen this connection.
Human-nature relationships
Designing spaces that are beautiful, offer both order and complexity, and provide a sense of refuge and prospect can nurture the human-nature relationship. This might involve creating quiet, secluded nooks for contemplation, as well as areas that encourage social interaction and connection with the outside world.
By thoughtfully integrating these elements, a home can be transformed into a sanctuary that provides physical shelter while also supporting the emotional and psychological wellbeing of its occupants. But while Kellert's framework is comprehensive, projects don’t need to incorporate all these elements. The specific attributes chosen for each project should be selected with purpose, to align with what residents want to express and support in their home environment. This tailored approach ensures that biophilic design remains a deeply personal and impactful way of forging a connection with the natural world.
A bridge to nature
Biophilic design is not just a trend, but a research-supported approach that enhances human health and productivity while promoting environmental sustainability. It acts as a bridge to nature, acknowledging our deep-seated need for connection with the natural world in our increasingly urbanised lives. Throughout this series, we’ll dive deeper into the specific elements of biophilic design, examining their application in crafting homes that are not only beautiful, but also deeply nurturing and sustainable.
Above: Organic shapes such as curves and spirals add a welcome sense of softness and fluidity to a home.
Above: Indoor plants and small gardens are an obvious and effective way to bring the outdoors in. A visual reminder of the natural world, botanical motifs and patterns also enhance the biophilic experience.
Above: Emphasising the element of water with design features like rain chains creates a connection to nature and the seasons, while adding a soothing visual and auditory dimension to the home.
Above: Natural materials such as rammed earth offer textural interest and connection to the local landscape.
Above: Changing light, shadow patterns and natural ventilation bring a sense of dynamism to an interior.