Theres more to Biophilia than plants and green walls
Living elements, a natural view and natural forms can prevent fatigue, increase performance, increase the feeling of wellbeing, increase productivity and creativity and reduce absenteeism.
Did you know that it is estimated that up to 11 million work days are lost through absenteeism every year at a cost of €1.5bn to the Irish economy (ESRI) and that Irish people spend 90% of their time indoors. (Irish green building council).
Biophilic Design is a human centered approach aimed at improving our connection to nature and natural processes in the buildings that we live and work in. This improved connection can benefit our wellbeing by reducing stress and improving productivity. IN our infographic you can see how we have integrated Biophilia into our office designs.
We as humans have an innate and genetically determined affinity with the natural world. Using curves and circles in furniture and lighting, natural timber materials on floors and features such as a real log wall can connect us to the soothing effect of nature. Textured variations in flooring, fabrics and wall surfaces and random exposed ceilings subliminally remind us of the randomness of nature.
We can zone spaces using colour, pattern and texture while lighting can create a dynamic or diffused atmosphere reflecting different functions and time of day. Sound too can play a role for example the sound of trickling water.
Some of of the ways we have used biophilia are as follows: green carpet to represent grass, tables in irregular shapes- unexpected like in the natural environment , trailing ivy overhead, stools handcrafted from timber logs, a river view, an atrium view , daylight in abundance, artwork depicting local habitat, glass boards creating natural reflections and curved cork stools which rock forward and back – soothing as you sit!
Biophila is certainly a top priority for positive human centred spaces.
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