24 Mar Biophilic Design for a Healthy House
Biophilic Design for a Healthy House: Bringing nature into the space for better health
The biophilic design philosophy is derived from an inherent need for humans to connect with nature in order to stay in physical and mental balance. Housing is recognised as an important determinant of human health. For example, a living room that promotes relaxation (e.g., through biophilic features, soundscapes for music, furniture to foster relaxation and meditation) and physical activities (exercise, meditation or yoga practice) can support mental and cardiovascular health. Since quality sleep impacts mental, cardiovascular, neurological and immune functions, the design of a bedroom that supports sleep hygiene, resting and relaxation (e.g., through biophilic elements, using clean lines, calming colours, cultivating a feeling of intimacy, providing dimmable lighting using “zero-blue” bulbs) can further support people living with chronic diseases.
What is biophilic design?
Biophilic Design is a concept that encourages us to bring nature into our built environments, with the aim of creating a more natural environment. By incorporating elements of nature in the space, such as plants, natural light, and natural materials, Biophilic Design helps us to create a space that is closer to the natural world. Additionally, it encourages us to consider the nature of the space itself, and how to use natural analogues in its design. We’ll explore the different ways that we can use Biophilic Design to create a more comfortable, calming, and healthy environment. For example, a living room that promotes relaxation (e.g., through biophilic features, soundscapes to deliver music, furniture to foster relaxation and meditation) and physical activities (exercise or yoga practice) can support mental and cardiovascular health. Since quality sleep impacts mental, cardiovascular, neurological and immune functions, the design of a bedroom that supports sleep hygiene, resting and relaxation (e.g., through biophilic elements, using clean lines, calming colours, cultivating a feeling of intimacy, providing dimmable lighting using “zero-blue” bulbs) can further support people living with chronic diseases.
The three aspects of biophilic design
1. Nature in the space is creating a visual connection with nature; using vegetation (plants, flowers and trees) both outside and inside a residential space (drooping or luscious indoor plants, framing nature from inside the house).
2. Nature of the space (creating a reading nook to give a sense of refuge, safety and peace when you’re in nature. Slow your natural rhythm and vibration to nature’s)
3. Natural analogues (textures, geometries, materials, shapes and patterns found in the natural world that provide an indirect sense of the great outdoors) round rocks, spirals, round shrubs, pools or paths for instance.
The benefits of biophilic design
The therapeutic interior design concept for people with chronic pain includes biophilic elements and features supporting chronic pain self-care. One of the key features is the room’s natural light and focus on natural surroundings; for example, shade trees with a vista to foster a connection with nature. Other biophilic features consist of natural woods, indoor plants, biomorphic shapes and fresh flowers. The architectural design mimics symmetry and the use of repeating patterns as found in basic nature structures. Artificial smart lighting supports natural circadian rhythm cycles.
A room that provides the opportunity for, and encouragement of, exercise fosters the self-management of chronic diseases. Physical activities are supported by the presence of exercise and wellness equipment while facing a natural landscape and vista, thus integrating exercise and exposure to nature. Multiple yoga mats foster stretching and yoga practice with a companion, bridging physical activity and social support. To enrich this therapeutic environment, an integrated sound system serves as a high-quality music delivery system. Direct sunlight is an important part of designing for chronic pain, while providing exposure to nature and a vantage point can lead to faster stress recovery. The design also includes ambient lighting that holds the capacity to emulate the blue light of the morning sun, and the yellow light of the evening sun, as well as narrow-band green LED light, shown to reduce pain in people with fibromyalgia
Implementing biophilic design in your space
Ask yourself which natural elements brings you peace, calm, happiness and connection to nature and bring those into your house design. Ask your house designer to use these elements in your home design.
Extracts from Dorothy Day Huntsman Healthy Dwelling: Design of Biophilic Interior Environments Fostering Self-Care Practices for People Living with Migraines, Chronic Pain, and Depression