What is biophilia and why it is important
Although the concept of biophilia was born in the 1970's, only recently more and more people are learning about this nature-based design ethos to create happier and healthier spaces for both people and the planet.
Biophilia is our love of nature on a deep and fundamental level.
As Stephen Kellert, Yale University professor, describes it, “people possess an inborn need for contact with nature essential to their physical and mental health, productivity and wellbeing. This is something we have called BIOPHILIA.
Satisfying this need for contact with nature in the modern built environment is something we are calling BIOPHILIC DESIGN
PEOPLE's biological need for contact with nature originates in our long history as species, we evolved in a natural environment so our senses, emotions and even our intellect developed in close association with nature.
This biological need for contact with nature continues to be important, even in our highly built and increasingly urban society [...] where we're spending an alarming 90% of our time indoors.
Unfortunately, most of our cities have become places of extensive environmental damage and increasing separation from nature.”
Biophilic design
The recent trend in green architecture has decreased the environmental impact of our buildings but it does not address how to reconnect humans to the natural world, the missing piece in the puzzle of sustainable development.
Biophilic Design addresses this void, it is an innovative way of designing the spaces with a visual connection with nature that improves our wellbeing.
Interior designers and architects around the world are embracing this concept, introducing natural materials, textures and shapes not only in the architectural building but also as botanical wall art, natural home decor and interior accessories with a cool mix of art and design that promote indoor wellness and connect people to the natural world.
Benefits
In simple terms, biophilic design makes people happier, healthier, it increases productivity in employees, which is why green walls and moss art are becoming more and more popular as office decor.
The use of natural materials as home accessories also plays a fundamental part in the overall look and feel of our space. Fake plants and plastic have a very
different effect on our mental health than real plants and botanical elements... every single aspect of our surroundings plays a role in our wellbeing.
The elements of a BIOPHILIC SPACE
A biophilic interior has plenty of natural light, ventilation, a natural landscaping visible from within the building as well as introduced into the building through plants and botanical art on the wall (also called "plantscapes").
Studies have shown that even looking at natural landscapes induce relaxation, clear our minds and increase our wellbeing, so the concept behind biophilic design is that wherever you are, you are exposed or surrounded by nature.
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