Biophilic design

[1] Fromm's approach was that of a psychoanalyst (a person who studies the unconscious mind) and presented a broad spectrum as he called biophilia a biologically normal instinct.

Wilson defined biophilia as "the innate tendency to focus on life and lifelike processes",[2] claiming a link with nature is not only physiological (as Fromm suggested) but has a genetic basis.

The biophilia hypothesis suggests that humans have an inherited need to connect with nature and other biotic forms due to our evolutionary dependence on it for survival and personal fulfillment.

[3] This idea is relevant in daily life – humans travel and spend money to sightsee in national parks and nature preserves, relax on beaches, hike mountains, and explore jungles.

Each building's architect(s) and project owner(s) must collaborate to include the biophilic principles they believe fit within their scope and most effectively reach their occupants.

Timothy Beatley believes the key objective of biophilic cities is to create an environment where the residents want to actively participate in, preserve, and connect with the natural landscape that surrounds them.

Alvarsson, et al. found that elements such as nature sounds, improved physiological response 9-37% faster than traditional urban noise after introduction of a psychological stressor.

In other words, the direct psychological effects, like changes in positive emotions and feelings, of biophilic design require more study.

The authors posited that the pattern of physiological findings suggested that responses to nature had a Parasympathetic nervous system (which regulates organs and glands supporting the body while at rest) component.

To partly address the potentially confounding effects of daylight on physiological response, the authors looked at the relationship between heart rate recovery (as a measure of recovering from a stressor) and light intensity but did not find a significant correlation.

[19] This suggests that there is a balance to be struck between the introduction of multisensory biophilic strategies to improve working memory, while at the same time keep distractions to a minimum.

[19] A pilot experiment by Sanchez et al. similarly finds that biophilic design in office environments contributes positively to performance and creativity.

[22] Some argue that by adding physical natural elements, such as plants, trees, rain gardens, and green roofs, to the built environment, buildings and cities can manage stormwater runoff better as there are fewer impervious surfaces and better infiltration.

[18] Biophilia may have slightly higher costs due to the addition of natural elements that require maintenance, higher-priced organic items, etc., however, the perceived health and environmental benefits are believed to negate this.

[23] On the urban scale, Timothy Beatley believes that biophilic design will allow cities to better adapt to stresses that occur from changes in climate and thus, local environments.

[24] Given the increased information supporting the benefits of biophilic design, organizations are beginning to incorporate the concept into their standards and rating systems to encourage building professionals to use biophilia in their projects.

[28] Recent findings found a 120-minute threshold for optimal nature exposure per week, demonstrating that significant health and well-being benefits depend on meeting this duration.

These effects are independent of physical activity and apply universally regardless of visit frequency or duration, emphasizing the need for biophilic design to prioritize meaningful exposure to nature rather than only aesthetic incorporation.

[29] Critics argue that biophilic design often prioritizes human benefits, like stress reduction, but overlooks support for biodiversity, as seen in many projects that add greenery for people’s enjoyment without creating habitats or aiding local ecosystems.

[28] However, this approach can lead to “greenwashing,” where natural elements are added superficially without providing meaningful sustainability benefits giving designs the appearance of environmental friendliness without addressing broader ecological or social goals.

[31] Furthermore, although multisensory biophilic interventions can enhance stress reduction, cognitive performance, and workplace satisfaction, they often fall short in sustaining a sense of connectedness to nature, raising uncertainty about their broader psychological impact.

[19] Implementing elements like green walls or water features can be expensive, both in initial setup and ongoing maintenance, which limits feasibility in low-income or cost-sensitive projects.

[33] Inside, the church experiences symmetry and a savannah-like environment through its vaulting and domes – the columns also have leaf-like fronds, which represents images of nature.

[35] In addition, the structure is built around existing foliage and encompasses the local geology by incorporating a large rock in the center of the living room.

[36] The hospital also utilizes natural ventilation as much as possible in common areas and corridors by orienting them in the direction the north and southeast prevailing winds; this has reduced energy consumption by 60% and increased airflow by 20-30%.

After the disaster that struck Sandy Hook Elementary in 2012, a new school was built to help heal the community and provide a new sense of security for those occupying the space.

Southern Ridges), and tree-lined streets that promote the return of wildlife and reduce the heat island effect that is often seen in dense city centers; local governments agree with Kellert and Beatley that daily doses of nature enhance the wellbeing of its citizens.

To increase the immediate presence of nature in the city, Singapore provides subsidies (up to half the installation cost) for those who include vegetative walls, green roofs, sky parks, etc.

This, combined with the construction of aesthetically creative architecture (Barcode Project) on the waterfront and promenade foot trails, is transforming this area into a place where residents can experience enjoyment from the unobstructed views of the fjord.

Completed in 2014, the project was designed by Ateliers Jean Nouvel and features two towers with a distinctive vertical garden set on a common retail podium.