What is Biophilic Design and Why It’s Trending

I’m sure like me, some of you have been hearing the term “biophilic design” or biophilic architecture” being talked about. And probably like me, had no clue what they meant.

After I did a bit of research, I immediately gravitated towards this concept which essentially means connecting people to nature through architecture - specifically through layout, lighting, natural materials and just a seamless connection to the outside with sustainability in mind.  Not a new concept, but it seems to have resurfaced again to hone in on the impact an environment has on a person’s wellbeing and mood.

According to an article written by the National Association of Realtors, bioliphic design is meant to trigger our senses and mood by making our home an extension of nature. Trends include creating living walls, landscaping, using natural materials such as stone and wood, relaxing color schemes found in nature, sliding glass doors/glass walls to connect the outside to the home, etc. 

We are also starting to see bioliphic design in public spaces – for example Singapore is often noted as an innovator in incorporating nature within their dense public spaces.   And for those who have worked in major U.S. cities, office buildings over the last few years have included rooftop work spaces or courtyards as a part of their architecture (based on my time in talent acquisition, it was an amazing selling point for employers when recruiting for talent – who wouldn’t want to feel they are in a park while at work?).  

Terrapin Bright Green, LLC writes in 14 Patterns of Bioliphic Design, “Biophilic design can reduce stress, enhance creativity and clarity of thought, improve our well-being and expedite healing; as the world population continues to urbanize, these qualities are ever more important.” 

It’s a win-win and I personally hope to continue to see this movement grow.