Moving Forward With Biophilia

Biophilic architecture, which incorporates elements of nature into design and construction, is becoming increasingly popular globally.

- Sana Chohan

There is an undeniable, inherent connection that humans have with nature as they seek calmness and peace at the sight and sounds of nature. Nature and its many grand, beautiful offerings have been associated with a decrease in the body’s sympathetic response, and an increase in parasympathetic response, which helps the body relax and function in normal circumstances, commonly known as the ‘rest-digest’ response.

Edward Osborne Wilson (1929–2021), University Research Professor Emeritus at Harvard, in 1984 published ‘Biophilia’ which explored the evolutionary and psychological basis of humanity’s attraction to the natural environment. This work introduced the word biophilia into the language, and has been influential in the shaping of the modern conservation ethic. An innate and genetically determined affinity of human beings with the natural world, Biophilia seems like a very obvious concept.

A few fundamental elements of Biophilic design are incorporation of environmental elements, natural shapes and forms in architecture and landscaping, natural patterns and processes that provide a multi-sensory experience, abundance of natural light and open spaces. These could be implemented with the simplest of actions from addition of plants and other natural features into manmade settings to express a love for nature, right up to the extent of incorporating this into the very core of a building design. Smartly designing buildings to let more natural light in, constructing facades which reflect heat and keep the insides cool, parks and open spaces which embody the spirit of green-scapes and forests, all add up to a more delightful, joyous living experience.