What made these biophilic design projects successful?

Biophilic design is an approach that integrates natural elements, materials, and forms into the built environment to enhance human well-being and environmental performance. It is based on the concept of biophilia, which means the innate affinity of humans to other living systems. Biophilic design can improve health, productivity, creativity, and mood in various settings, such as workplaces, schools, hospitals, and homes. But what are the key factors that make biophilic design projects successful? Here are some examples of biophilic design projects from around the world and what they did right.

1 Green walls and roofs

One of the most visible and popular features of biophilic design is the use of green walls and roofs, which are vertical or horizontal surfaces covered with vegetation. Green walls and roofs can provide multiple benefits, such as reducing heat island effect, improving air quality, creating habitats for wildlife, and enhancing aesthetics. For example, the Edith Green-Wendell Wyatt Federal Building in Portland, Oregon, has a 250-foot green wall that wraps around the facade and a green roof that collects rainwater. The green wall and roof help reduce energy consumption, stormwater runoff, and carbon emissions, while also creating a more pleasant and inviting environment for the occupants and visitors.

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Alexandre Zupka

Solution Architect at Johnson Controls
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The myriad of advantages, from mitigating the heat island effect to fostering biodiversity and improving air quality, showcases the power of sustainable architecture. The commitment to utilizing green infrastructure for energy efficiency, stormwater management, and carbon emission reduction is a beacon of responsible design. Designing such ecosystems not only serves a practical purposes but also nurture a more enjoyable and welcoming atmosphere for everyone. As we continue to explore and implement biophilic design principles, we're not just constructing buildings; we're crafting environments that contribute to a healthier, more sustainable, and aesthetically pleasing future 🌿✨

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2 Natural light and views

Another essential aspect of biophilic design is the use of natural light and views, which can influence the circadian rhythms, mood, and performance of humans. Natural light and views can also connect people to the changing seasons, weather, and time of day, creating a sense of place and orientation. For example, the Khoo Teck Puat Hospital in Singapore has large windows and skylights that allow natural light to penetrate deep into the building, as well as balconies and courtyards that offer views of the surrounding gardens and landscapes. The natural light and views help create a healing and calming atmosphere for the patients, staff, and visitors, as well as reducing the need for artificial lighting and cooling.

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3 Biomimicry and biophilia

Another innovative way of applying biophilic design is through biomimicry and biophilia, which are the imitation and integration of natural forms, patterns, and processes into the design of buildings and products. Biomimicry and biophilia can inspire creativity, efficiency, and resilience, as well as fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of nature. For example, the Eastgate Centre in Harare, Zimbabwe, is a mixed-use building that mimics the ventilation system of termite mounds, which maintain a constant temperature and humidity without mechanical intervention. The Eastgate Centre uses passive cooling and heating techniques that save up to 90% of energy costs, while also creating a comfortable and healthy indoor environment for the occupants.

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Alexandre Zupka

Solution Architect at Johnson Controls
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By integrating nature's wisdom into our creations, we not only optimize functionality but also nurture a deeper connection and appreciation for the world around us. It's a beautiful reminder that, in our pursuit of progress, we can find incredible solutions by looking to the elegant designs offered by our surrounding natural habitats that have evolved over millennia. Hats off to the visionaries who champion biomimicry and biophilia in design, paving the way for a future where innovation and sustainability walk hand in hand. 🌱🏢🍃

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4 Nature-inspired materials and colors

Another simple but effective way of incorporating biophilic design is through the use of nature-inspired materials and colors, which can evoke positive associations and emotions in humans. Nature-inspired materials and colors can also enhance the sensory and tactile qualities of the spaces, as well as the durability and performance of the buildings and products. For example, the Bullitt Center in Seattle, Washington, is a net-zero energy office building that uses natural materials and colors, such as wood, stone, metal, and green, brown, and blue hues. The natural materials and colors help create a warm and inviting atmosphere for the workers, as well as reflecting the local context and culture of the Pacific Northwest.

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5 Indoor plants and water features

Another common but powerful feature of biophilic design is the use of indoor plants and water features, which can improve the indoor air quality, humidity, and acoustics, as well as providing psychological and physiological benefits for humans. Indoor plants and water features can also add visual and auditory interest and diversity to the spaces, as well as creating opportunities for interaction and relaxation. For example, the Google office in Tel Aviv, Israel, has a variety of indoor plants and water features, such as a vertical garden, a cactus garden, a moss wall, a pond, and a waterfall. The indoor plants and water features help create a lively and stimulating environment for the employees, as well as enhancing their well-being and creativity.

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6 Human-nature connection and education

The last but not least factor that makes biophilic design projects successful is the human-nature connection and education, which is the intentional and meaningful engagement of people with nature and its values. Human-nature connection and education can foster a sense of belonging, responsibility, and stewardship, as well as increasing the awareness and appreciation of nature and its benefits. For example, the Brock Environmental Center in Virginia Beach, Virginia, is a LEED Platinum-certified education and community center that connects people to the Chesapeake Bay and its ecosystems. The Brock Environmental Center has various features and programs that encourage human-nature connection and education, such as a living shoreline, a rainwater harvesting system, a solar and wind power system, and environmental workshops and events.

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Alexandre Zupka

Solution Architect at Johnson Controls
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It's not just about creating beautiful spaces; it's about fostering a genuine relationship between people and the environment. The idea that intentional engagement with nature can spark a sense of belonging and responsibility is so empowering. It's not just about designing structures; it's about cultivating a mindset of stewardship for our planet. 🌍

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Marco Caselli

ESG | Nature Based Solutions | Biodiversity | Climate Tech
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Let's not forget direct access to Nature: it has proven health benefits, with studies showing a 13% decrease in stress levels and a 20% improvement in cognitive performance in green environments. Exposure to nature enhances creativity by up to 50%. Hospitals with green spaces report reduced patient stress and faster recovery. In workplaces, access to natural elements correlates with a 6% productivity increase and 15% higher well-being. Green spaces in neighborhoods encourage physical activity. Overall, direct access to nature contributes significantly to mental and physical well-being.

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What made these biophilic design projects successful?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Green walls and roofs

2 Natural light and views

3 Biomimicry and biophilia

4 Nature-inspired materials and colors

5 Indoor plants and water features

6 Human-nature connection and education

7 Here’s what else to consider

Environmental Design

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What made these biophilic design projects successful?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Green walls and roofs

2 Natural light and views

3 Biomimicry and biophilia

4 Nature-inspired materials and colors

5 Indoor plants and water features

6 Human-nature connection and education

7 Here’s what else to consider

Environmental Design

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