The Power of Biophilia: Benefits for Physical and Mental Health

A ‘biophile’ is a person with a deep love for life and an intrinsic desire to connect with nature. This natural affinity can have profound effects on both physical and mental health. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of embracing our biophilic tendencies, the theory behind ‘biophilia’, and how ‘biophilic design’ can enhance our well-being.

Key Takeaways

• Biophilia, the intrinsic desire to connect with nature, is crucial for enhancing human well-being, particularly through biophilic design in urban settings.

• The biophilia hypothesis suggests that our evolutionary history drives a need for natural connections, which positively impacts mental health and emotional well-being.

• Biophilic design benefits physical and mental health by reducing stress, improving air quality, and fostering environments that enhance learning and community engagement.

Understanding Biophilia

Biophilia, a term derived from Greek meaning ‘love of life,’ describes an intrinsic desire to connect with various forms of life. This connection is not just a fleeting preference but a fundamental aspect of human nature. We are naturally drawn to the vibrancy and diversity of the natural world, seeking out experiences that tie us to life in all its forms.

In design contexts, biophilic design recognizes this innate connection to nature to create spaces that enhance well-being. Integrating natural materials like plants, water, and natural light into our built environments highlights the profound impact these features have on our mental and physical health. Beyond aesthetic appeal, it’s about treating nature in ways that allow humans to thrive.

The COVID-19 pandemic has only amplified the recognition of biophilia’s importance. With increased stress and a renewed focus on mental health, the integration of nature into our daily lives has become more critical than ever. As we navigate through these times, biophilic design offers a pathway to healthier, more resilient living spaces.

The Biophilia Hypothesis

The biophilia hypothesis, introduced by renowned biologist Edward O. Wilson, posits that humans have an inherent tendency to seek connections with nature and other forms of life. This theory suggests that our affinity for the natural world is deeply rooted in our evolutionary history. Over millennia, humans evolved in close relationship with nature, and these bonds have shaped our psychological and emotional well-being.

From an evolutionary perspective, stronger ties to nature might have provided significant advantages, such as better access to vital resources and environments conducive to survival. These connections not only helped in physical survival but also fostered emotional attachment and a sense of belonging.

Today’s urbanized settings often leave us disconnected from the natural environments that once nurtured us. This hypothesis underscores the need to re-establish these connections to improve mental health outcomes. Exposure to natural elements reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, and enhances overall well-being, making a strong case for integrating biophilic design into modern life.

Benefits of Biophilic Design

Biophilic design significantly reduces stress and promotes relaxation. Studies reveal that environments enriched with natural elements significantly lower stress levels and improve mental health. Plants, natural light, and other biophilic features create a calming atmosphere, fostering peace and tranquility.

Biophilic design also enhances psychological well-being. Creating environments that nurture mental health helps individuals feel more connected, content, and engaged. This approach is especially beneficial in schools and healthcare facilities where mental health is a priority.

Students notably benefit from biophilic design. Environments incorporating natural elements address the needs of students with complex emotional and behavioral challenges, improving well-being and academic performance. High-quality air ventilation systems and natural light access contribute to a healthier, more conducive learning atmosphere.

Biophilic design promotes eco-friendly practices, benefiting both the environment and human health. Integrating natural landscapes into urban spaces improves air quality and supports physical health, showcasing the holistic benefits of biophilic architecture.

Real-World Examples of Biophilic Architecture

Biophilic architecture emphasizes the integration of natural elements into building designs, enhancing occupants’ connection to nature. Real-world examples abound, showcasing how biophilic design can transform spaces into havens of well-being and sustainability. From corporate offices to residential towers, biophilic architecture demonstrates the potential to promote ecological sustainability and enhance the quality of life.

Consider a few notable examples.

Apple Park – California, USA

Apple Park in California stands as a testament to the power of biophilic design. The campus is home to 9,000 trees and extensive wildlife spaces, creating a lush, inviting environment for employees. The thoughtful incorporation of natural elements within the workspace fosters a sense of tranquility and connection to the natural world.

Natural lighting is fundamental to Apple Park’s design. The Atri, with ample natural light, creates a brighter, more connected workspace, enhancing well-being and productivity. This design approach not only benefits employees’ mental health but also underscores Apple’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.

Bosco Verticale – Milan, Italy

Bosco Verticale in Milan is a striking example of biophilic architecture, featuring two residential towers adorned with approximately 20,000 trees. This vertical forest concept aims to combat urban sprawl and reduce expansion, bringing nature into the heart of the city.

Integrating plants into high-rise buildings, Bosco Verticale enhances urban biodiversity and promotes a healthier living environment.

The Jewel – Singapore

The Jewel in Singapore exemplifies biophilic design in a commercial setting. This architectural marvel integrates a significant number of plants and features an indoor waterfall, creating a serene and aesthetically pleasing environment. These natural elements enhance visual appeal and contribute to a sense of calm and relaxation for visitors and residents alike.

Natural features like indoor waterfalls and vast plant life in The Jewel demonstrate the positive impact of biophilic design on urban settings. Enhancing the connection between people and nature, biophilic architecture in commercial spaces fosters a more engaging and enjoyable experience.

Biophilia and Sustainable Practices

Biophilic architecture goes hand in hand with sustainable practices, emphasizing the use of natural and sustainable materials. Timber, straw, and clay are commonly used in biophilic construction, promoting ecological sustainability. Standards like the International Well Building Institute’s WELL focus on incorporating bio-based materials to enhance indoor air quality and occupant health.

Using local materials in biophilic design reduces transportation emissions and supports local economies, advancing sustainable resources goals. By sourcing materials locally, biophilic projects not only minimize their carbon footprint but also foster community resilience and economic stability.

Biophilic technology balances urban living with nature, encouraging eco-conscious lifestyles and choices. Integrating natural elements and materials from the construction phase, biophilic design aligns with sustainable practices to create healthier, more resilient environments.

Biophilia in Urban Environments

Incorporating biophilia into urban environments significantly enhances the quality of life. Green public spaces improve air quality, reduce noise pollution, offset carbon emissions, and create wildlife habitats. These green spaces serve as oases of calm in bustling cities, offering residents a respite from the urban grind.

Examples like the Amazon Spheres in Seattle show how integrating greenery and natural light into workspaces promotes a connection to nature and enhances employee well-being. These spaces demonstrate the potential of biophilic design to transform urban environments into healthier, more vibrant places to live and work.

Harmoniously integrating technology and natural elements creates urban settings that benefit both people and the environment. Blending the best of both worlds, biophilic cities can lead in sustainable, human-centric urban development.

The Role of Green Spaces in city centres

Green spaces in urban centers play a vital role in promoting physical and psychological health. Higher tree canopy coverage in cities is linked to better health outcomes, mitigating respiratory ailments and enhancing well-being. Well-maintained parks and gardens reduce stress levels among urban residents, providing much-needed relief from the pressures of city life.

Green spaces foster social connections and promote physical activities, enhancing overall quality of life. Access to nature in architectural spaces encourages outdoor activities, enhancing physical fitness and community bonding.

Indoor plants act as natural air purifiers, improving air quality and overall health in urban environments. Incorporating green elements indoors and outdoors, city planners can create healthier, more livable urban centers.

How Biophilia Concepts Influence Modern Education

Biophilic design profoundly impacts educational environments, enhancing cognitive function and creativity among students. Natural elements in classrooms, like plants and water features, lift mood and decrease stress, creating a more conducive learning atmosphere.

Access to natural light in classrooms is linked to improved academic performance and reduced anxiety. Large windows and outdoor access foster a calming environment, helping students focus better and perform well academically.

Outdoor classrooms extend the benefits of biophilic design, providing extensive exposure to nature and fostering better learning experiences. Indigenous perspectives emphasize a symbiotic relationship with nature, highlighting the importance of integrating biophilia concepts into education.

Summary

In summary, biophilic design is more than just an aesthetic choice; it’s a powerful approach that enhances physical and mental health by fostering a deep connection to the natural world. From reducing stress and improving air quality to promoting eco-friendly practices and enhancing cognitive function, the benefits of integrating nature into our built environments are vast and well-documented. Whether through biophilic architecture in urban centers or innovative educational spaces, the application of biophilia principles can lead to healthier, happier, and more sustainable communities.

As we look towards the future, it’s essential to embrace biophilic design as a cornerstone of sustainable development. By prioritizing our relationship with nature, we not only improve our well-being but also contribute to the health of our planet. Let us be inspired by the examples we’ve explored and strive to create living and working spaces that harmonize with the natural environment, fostering a brighter, more resilient future for all.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an example of biophilia?

An example of a biophilia is the Barbican Centre in London, which integrates natural elements like lakes and wildlife within its brutalist architectural design. This harmonization of nature and built environment exemplifies biophilic architecture.

What is biophilia?

Biophilia refers to our inherent tendency to seek connections with nature and living systems. This instinctual bond emphasizes the importance of integrating natural elements into our environments for enhanced well-being.

How does biophilic design benefit mental health?

Biophilic design significantly benefits mental health by reducing stress and enhancing relaxation through the integration of natural elements into our surroundings. This approach fosters improved overall well-being.

Can biophilic design be integrated into urban environments?

Biophilic design can indeed be integrated into urban environments by incorporating green spaces, maximizing natural light, and utilizing sustainable materials. This approach significantly enhances residents' quality of life.

What are some examples of biophilic architecture?

Biophilic architecture can be exemplified by Apple Park in the USA, Bosco Verticale in Italy, and The Jewel in Singapore, all integrating natural elements to enhance well-being. These designs reflect a strong connection to nature, promoting a healthier living environment.

How Biophilic Design Can Enhance Recovery Environments for Addiction Treatment

Biophilic design is an innovative approach that integrates natural elements into built environments to promote wellbeing and recovery. This design philosophy is increasingly recognized for its potential to enhance recovery environments for addiction treatment. By incorporating elements such as plants, natural light, and water features, biophilic design creates soothing and therapeutic atmospheres.

Addiction treatment centers can significantly benefit from these principles, as they help reduce stress, improve mental health, and support overall recovery outcomes. So, let's explore this concept, its positive effects on mental health, and practical steps for integrating these elements into addiction treatment facilities.

Understanding Biophilic Design

Biophilic design revolves around integrating nature into indoor spaces to enhance human wellbeing. The concept of biophilia, introduced by E.O. Wilson, suggests that humans have an innate connection to nature. This design philosophy incorporates natural elements like plants, natural light, water features, and natural materials to create calming and rejuvenating environments.

Originating from the need to bridge the gap between urban living and nature, biophilic design has evolved into a crucial aspect of sustainable architecture. It aims to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall health by fostering a connection with nature. That makes it particularly beneficial in environments focused on healing and recovery, such as addiction treatment centers.

Biophilic design has many benefits.

The Science Behind Biophilic Design

Research shows that biophilic design has significant psychological and physiological benefits. Exposure to natural elements reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, and enhances mood. The presence of plants can also improve air quality and increase oxygen levels, leading to better cognitive function and overall wellbeing.

Natural light is essential for regulating circadian rhythms, which improves sleep quality and mental health. Additionally, water features create soothing sounds that promote relaxation. In addiction treatment centers, all these elements can create a calming atmosphere that supports mental health and aids in the recovery process.

Creating Soothing Environments with Natural Elements

Incorporating natural elements into addiction treatment centers can significantly enhance their therapeutic atmosphere. Plants are crucial in improving air quality and boosting mood, making spaces feel more inviting and peaceful. Natural light helps regulate circadian rhythms, promoting better sleep and mental health. Water features, such as fountains or aquariums, provide calming sounds that reduce stress and anxiety.

Due to this, wellness real estate emphasizes the importance of these elements in creating environments that support overall wellbeing. These elements in treatment centers can create soothing spaces that foster a sense of tranquility and aid in the recovery process. They make patients feel more connected to nature and supported in their journey towards healing.

A soothing atmosphere is necessary in treatment centers.

Enhancing Therapeutic Atmospheres

Biophilic design transforms treatment centers into supportive and healing environments. Natural elements like plants, light, and water create spaces that enhance therapeutic outcomes. For example, treatment centers using biophilic design report increased patient satisfaction and reduced stress levels. Case studies show that incorporating greenery and natural light in therapy rooms improves patient mood and engagement.

Patient testimonials also often highlight the calming effect of these environments, making them feel more at ease during their recovery journey. Fostering a connection to nature, this design helps patients feel more grounded and supported. These elements collectively create a therapeutic atmosphere that promotes healing, making recovery more effective and pleasant for those undergoing addiction treatment.

Positive Effects on Mental Health and Recovery Outcomes

Biophilic design has a profound impact on mental health and recovery outcomes. Incorporating natural elements can significantly reduce anxiety and depression, promoting a more positive mental state. Understanding how external elements influence addiction can help in creating more effective treatment plans that incorporate biophilic design principles to foster better recovery outcomes.

Biophilic environments are linked to lower relapse rates, as the soothing atmosphere helps patients feel more secure and relaxed. Studies show that a connection to nature fosters a sense of hope and renewal, which is essential for recovery. Creating spaces that harness these benefits enables addiction treatment centers to support long-term mental health and provide a more effective, nurturing environment for recovery.

Integrating Biophilic Principles into Treatment Facilities

Practical steps include incorporating indoor plants, maximizing natural light, and adding water features to create calming spaces. Simple, budget-friendly options like using natural materials and artwork depicting nature can also be effective. Collaborating with designers and architects experienced in biophilic design ensures these elements are seamlessly integrated.

These changes can improve mental health and wellbeing by creating a serene and supportive atmosphere for patients. Facilities that embrace these principles report increased patient satisfaction and better recovery outcomes, highlighting the importance of a holistic approach to addiction treatment that includes a connection to nature.

Incorporating this design can be challenging at times, but it’s rewarding.

Overcoming Challenges in Implementation

Implementing biophilic design in addiction treatment centers can present some challenges but can be addressed with strategic planning. Common obstacles include budget constraints, space limitations, and maintenance concerns. Solutions involve prioritizing low-cost natural elements, such as potted plants and natural light, which can be both affordable and impactful. Utilizing vertical gardens or small water features can maximize limited space.

Training staff to maintain these elements is also essential to ensure longevity and effectiveness. Collaboration with experienced designers can help overcome these challenges and create a cohesive plan. Addressing these issues is necessary to integrate biophilic design, enhance the environment, and promote better patient recovery outcomes.

The Future of Biophilic Design in Addiction Treatment

The future of biophilic design in addiction treatment is promising, with emerging trends and innovations continually enhancing recovery environments. As awareness of the benefits grows, more treatment centers incorporate natural elements to support healing. Innovations like virtual reality nature experiences and advanced indoor garden systems are becoming more accessible.

Long-term benefits include:

• Improved patient outcomes.

• Reduced stress for both patients and staff.

• More sustainable, health-focused facilities.

Biophilic design will likely become a standard in the industry, shaping the future of addiction treatment by prioritizing natural connections and holistic wellbeing.

Embracing Biophilic Design for Better Recovery

Biophilic design offers significant benefits for addiction treatment, creating soothing and supportive environments that enhance recovery outcomes. By integrating natural elements, treatment centers can foster mental wellbeing and promote healing. Embracing these principles is essential for creating effective, nurturing spaces supporting patients on their recovery journey.

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Sources:

https://www.nrdc.org/bio/maria-mccain/bringing-outdoors-benefits-biophilia

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412019336347

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7256771/

Green Building Interior Design: Biophilic Design in Sustainable Interiors and Buildings — Biofilico Wellness Interiors

sustainable interiors or biophilic interiors? esports gaming room concept A.I. image BIOFILICO

What contribution can biophilic design and its natural elements make to a sustainable building strategy?

Biophilic design emphasizes the connection between humans and nature. It seeks to create a harmonious relationship between people and their environment by incorporating natural elements into green building strategies.

By doing so, it can help reduce energy consumption, lower the carbon footprint, improve air quality, and create a healthier indoor environment. Through its ability to improve the overall sustainability of a building, biophilic design can be an effective component of any sustainable building strategy.

Biophilic design can help reduce stress levels in occupants by providing calming visual cues and promoting well-being through increased contact with nature.

What is the difference between biophilia and sustainable design?

I see biophilic design as a bridge between the worlds of healthy buildings and wellness, real estate and sustainable interiors.

So biophilic design sits neatly between those two worlds. So nature effectively becomes a bridge between people and planet so it's then both a healthy environment for us as people in an indoor space or within a building or even within a city but also a space that is not negatively impacting the environment around us, so good for us and good for the planet.

I think biophilic design is really one of the very few interior design concepts that can do that. You know, the sustainability piece has now started looping back around to incorporate a more people centric or human centric wellbeing oriented approach.

Healthy interiors have some element of considering the environment too of course but in between lives this fascinating concept that we call biophilic design.

I think it is about interior design that is intended to reconnect us with where we came from, and create a more harmonious relationship between living systems our urban, dense built environments and our evolutionary past.

How does biophilic design contribute to a healthy building design?

When we’re thinking about how biophilic design impacts or contributes to the creation of a healthy interior and healthy building you could divide it schematically into two halves. Selecting products with no or low volatile organic compounds to preserve air quality and respiratory health is crucial.

We have mental wellbeing and our physical wellbeing - the latter is slightly more tangible, for example there are things we can do with technology to improve the indoor air quality, removing dust particles and other PM.25 or PM10 particulate matter from indoor air, upgrading HVAC filter systems to MERV13 or better, introducing air-purifying plants in abundance, and so on.

What is the difference between sustainable interior design and biophilic interior design?

Sustainable interior design focuses on reducing the environmental impact of an interior space by using materials and resources that are environmentally friendly and have minimal waste and environmental impact.

This means looking for products made from recycled or sustainable materials, such as bamboo, cork, and organic cotton. It also involves promoting energy efficiency by reducing energy consumption through the use of efficient lighting and appliances, as well as incorporating natural ventilation.

On the other hand, biophilic interior design is more focused on bringing nature into an interior space to create a healthier environment for occupants.

This could involve adding natural elements like plants, wood accents, and stone features to an interior space to mimic nature in some way.

Additionally, biophilic design emphasizes creating a connection between the indoors and outdoors by incorporating large windows or skylights that get fresh air and offer views of the outside environment.

So while the two concepts are inherently linked they are perhaps like brother and sister rather than twins.

sustainable interiors or biophilic interiors? esports gaming room concept A.I. image BIOFILICO

What are the scientifically proven benefits of biophilic design based on the latest research studies?

One of the most significant benefits of biophilic design is the improvement in mental health and wellbeing. Energy and environmental design principles contribute to these benefits by promoting energy efficiency, sustainable sourcing of materials, and integrating environmental impact considerations into interior design.

Studies have found that biophilic design can reduce stress levels, improve mood, and increase cognitive performance. It has also been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Additionally, biophilic design has been linked to improved physical health, such as lower blood pressure, improved sleep quality, and increased immune system function.

Furthermore, research suggests that people who work in environments with biophilic design are more productive and creative than those who don’t.

Finally, biophilic design can help to create a sense of connection with nature which can lead to a greater appreciation for direct nature of the environment and its inhabitants.

Healthy natural materials in biophilic design strategies

If you look at the different types of healthy materials for interior spaces on the market today, the vast majority of them are in fact natural materials, and as they are not man-made they will likely show some visual trace of their natural source.

They're 'imperfect' in other words, at least compared to synthetic, industrial materials that often have no texture or unique patterns to them. This wabi-sabi concept of beauty is where biophilic design can have most fun.

So there's a huge overlap between healthy materials and natural materials that we might look to deploy in a biophilic interior design project.

That's really the game here, it's about how can we integrate as many of these natural components into an interior space whilst also ticking as many boxes as we can from a wellbeing design perspective.

Mental wellbeing and biophilic design features

Then there's a whole other segment around mental wellbeing. So the tangible data-driven stuff is more to do with what materials we're putting in and how we're impacting the air quality while mental wellbeing is about reducing levels of stress and anxiety, while promoting feelings of positivity and boosting mood.

Studies show that you can improve productivity and concentration levels by being exposed to nature, for example a half hour during a lunch break, for example, and then going back in to work is a healthier alternative to having another coffee or sugary drink to pick you up.

Patient recovery rates in hospitals even improve when there are views out onto nature instead of staring at the inside of a windowless room - no surprises there perhaps but combining these physical wellbeing features with the mental wellness angle is what it's all about.

What industries or sectors are successfully using biophilic design?

sustainable interiors or biophilic interiors? esports gaming room concept A.I. image BIOFILICO

Offices

sustainable interiors or biophilic interiors? esports gaming room concept A.I. image BIOFILICO

If it's an office development, then it is all about improving staff wellbeing and creating a space that is desirable for corporations to spend their days (and sometimes nights) in.

Marijuana dispensaries

In a biophilic marijuana dispensary in North America, you can play on both the mental and physical wellbeing aspects but it's less to do with creating a sense of wellbeing right there and then as it's essentially a transitory space, clients are only there a short while.

So it's more to do with connecting the product and brand image with an interior design that reflects their values as accurately as possible.

Hotels & hospitality

Any hospitality business that has a connection to say sourcing local ingredients, or zero waste kitchen policies has a direct connection with nature and sustainability, making it a perfect opportunity for an interior design concept aligned with that positioning.

In eco-luxury hotels we’re seeing a number of brands who are bringing biophilic design in but also still playing in that five star luxury space, especially but not exclusively in resorts, it’s just a natural fit for that type of environment. Additionally, many eco-luxury hotels are using solar panels to generate electricity for powering lights, appliances, and building systems, enhancing their commitment to sustainability. a resort environments for them to be a kind of synergistic approach between inside and out.

Residential

Wellness real estate is focused on creating energy-efficient spaces in which we spend most of our time - where we live and work, then there are ‘secondary spaces’ such as your gym, cafes, restaurants, hotels and so on.

What are the the challenges of implementing biophilic design and its natural processes?

Definitely one of the big questions is always around maintenance because it does come up and clearly there is an element of ongoing operational responsibility when you when you create something like this because it isn't like putting up a sculpture on the wall and then leaving it there for five years and not worrying about it. living plants do need a little bit of love and care.

But there are always options and so there's a discussion with with the client at some point which is which plants are going to require this and and it just may not be possible in some instances to put plants hanging from the ceiling if there's also wiring and electrics and HVAC systems up there and plants don't want to be right near an air vent, etc, etc.

So you know, the realities are both operational and maintenance base, but also just the practicalities of installing this stuff in certain locations where space is limited, natural light is limited, or there's just other things that are taking priorities and so there's always a crunch time in any project where right Okay, well that's the that's the aesthetic that we're going for.

You end up with the MEP consultants or the mechanical electrical engineer with the cost consultants slash project manager, the architects and interior designers and me around the table trying to hash it out and it's a lot of give and take and that's just the messy reality.

But it's not that far off from any other project. If I'm honest, it's just that there's an extra there's an extra head around the table pushing for as much live natural direct by affiliate as possible.

And my second option, My Plan B is indirect biophilia, the things that represent nature that do a lot of the same things aesthetically without actually being alive. And that's where you can get into all kinds of other stuff.

Direct biophilia vs indirect biophilia - what's the difference?

Obviously there are elements of the natural world and natural processes that we'll never be able to recreate without actually being out in nature, but it seems that we can get pretty close in terms of the brain's reaction to those stimuli, whether that be from certain scents, sounds, visual prompts or textures..

What we have to avoid is any kind of dissonance, we have to make the natural spaces in a biophilic interior as cohesive as possible.

Biomimicry in biophilic design elements

Biomimicry is a relatively new field of study that draws inspiration from nature to create sustainable solutions for humans.

It focuses on studying and emulating natural processes and systems, such as the way a beaver builds its dams or how a spider weaves its web. By doing so, biomimicry can help us develop innovative solutions to human problems.

Biophilic design, on the other hand, is an approach to design which takes into consideration the human connection to nature.

It seeks to bring nature into our built environment in order to create more comfortable and enjoyable spaces that are conducive to better health and wellbeing.

Biophilic design can also be used as a tool for sustainability by creating green spaces that help reduce energy consumption and conserve resources.

sustainable interiors or biophilic interiors? esports gaming room concept A.I. image BIOFILICO

Where does biophilic design go from here? What does the future look like for this design trend?

I think biophilic design is now undergoing a subtle but important shift towards a version 2.0. It's no longer enough just to bring inside elements of the natural world, creating an interior that's inspired by the natural environment, likely full of plants and living green walls. That's version 1.0 right there.

Nowadays there's a new wave coming that is closer to a concept called 'organic design', this is how the trend moves on to its next life phase, opening up a wider palette of colours and materials for itself as well as taking inspiration from a far wider range of other natural elements, in the quest for improved human health benefits.

How did you first begin your career in biophilic design?

I came in via the world of real estate development. So I was initially in the Creative Director role in-house with a mixed-use real estate development in Montenegro called Porto Montenegro.

We had construction , design, operations and project management teams building out a small multifamily residential and superyacht marina destination.

I was in the thick of all of this and started to see how teams could literally pull entire buildings out of the ground for 300 units in two years or build an entire Marina and I thought, well, 'this is this is my industry, for sure'.

I enjoy working in the world of interiors and real estate and started to really understand how that process worked from the initial business case right through design, launch and operational phase.

What first inspired you to work in biophilic design and sustainability?

During an early chapter in my career I was placed in South Africa, Cape Town, an amazingly natural location where the big city kid me was taken out of the urban environment and dropped into this low key, nature-centric location and something awoke inside me while I was living there.

Later I found myself working for this real estate development project in a very small town called Tivat in Montenegro on the Adriatic coast, again completely immersed by nature.

So I've got this these two things happening, which was this combination of real estate interiors, architecture, construction industry, all while diving into the world of living in very natural , environments, having previously grown up in cities my whole life.

There was just this strong internal reaction, I stopped training in indoor gyms and started training outdoors, just connecting in a way that I'd never done with nature.

I started reading into this subject, at first it even took me a little while to come across the term 'biophilia' but I knew that something was happening and that perhaps this space of real estate and interiors, that was already my world, could be integrated with my nascent passion for sustainability and nature....the rest is history!

Carlo Battisti - a vision for biophilic architecture and interiors in regenerative real estate

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An interview with Carlo Battisti, President of Living Future Europe.

Carlo qualified as a Civil Engineer from Milan's prestigious Politécnico University and now specializes in sustainable innovation and project management.

He is certified with LEED for green buildings, and WELL for healthy buildings and natural systems, amongst a host of other professional accreditations.

Biophilic Architecture - a Regenerative real estate vision

Here we discuss the the connection to nature between biophilic design, beauty and wellbeing from the perspective of the International Living Future Institute.

We also look at the concept of restorative real estate developments, and even at how the Bolzano area of Italy that he is in has carved out a role for itself as a sustainable innovation hub within Italy.

This is a dense but extremely dynamic conversation advocating for going beyond merely sustainable buildings.

I really felt I was in the presence of someone who has completely mastered his art and is now committed to giving back to society by sharing that knowledge through a range of different mediums, including but not limited to podcasts!

• https://www.living-future.eu/biophilic-society/

• https://www.living-future.eu/biophilia-summit-2023-call-for-abstracts-is-open/

• https://www.instagram.com/lfeurope/

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Full transcript follows courtesy of Otter.ai - please excuse any typos errors!

International Living Future Institute - biophilic design and regenerative real estate leader

Matt Morley

Carlo thank you so much for joining us on the show. I'm looking forward to our conversation, it's going to cover a lot. But I know you'll, you'll have the expertise to make it succinct, and also to help make it manageable for people to understand, because there's a lot for us to cover. So why don't we begin? Let's give an introduction to the ILFI.

Carlo Battisti

Yeah, surely. So first of all, I'm a building engineer by background, I've been working for 20 years in construction firms. Now it's already 15 years I'm dealing with sustainability and innovation in the building industry.

Living Building Challenge

I started dealing with sustainability standards, let's say, around 10 years ago, or even more, I discovered the Living Building Challenge, which is really the most ambitious sustainability standard for building occupants and the built environment.

I remember I went to Portland, USA for the annual flagship conference, Living Future 2014. I remember I was the only European in the room - "what are you doing here" they all said! I came back home with my brain full of ideas, and the work that they're doing is always amazing, even now.

Sustainability Standards

So it's really disruptive, because, you know, there are many sustainability standards out there are many conversation about how to make the bidding industry greener.

But the LBC really set the bar much higher. And knowing that the progress that we've been achieving in terms of the debates in the media industry, it's all still barely visible so we need to do much more.

The radical concept behind everything is really to move from a less bad to a more good scenario.

Restorative first, then Regenerative Buildings

So having a built environment could be restorative first and then regenerative, really improving the conditions for the environment and making possible an ecosystem that thrives, with personal and human connection and thriving in a regenerative way within the built environment.

Given that we know we are impacting the built environment generally, on all the sectors and environment more in general, we need to do much more. This living breathing channel framework is really a very holistic approach based on the metaphor of a building as a flower.

ILFI's seven petals

So there is this concept of the seven petals, the ILFI is basically developing these standards covering buildings have been in progress companies, communities, and office buildings and so forth and so on.

And we as Living Future Europe started opening their first European office in 2018. Now, we are an independent legal entity, we are basically promoting their programs across Europe with different activities to do with biophilic architecture, biophilic design principles and so on.

A career in biophilic design and the interior environment

Matt Morley

You mentioned your own professional background. A lot of people ask me how to get into this industry? What's the best way in? You know, how do we study for biophilic design? Or how do we study to get into the space that you're in? And it's not always an obvious response?

I think I see a lot of architects, engineers, project managers, from your position for someone interested in the space around green buildings, healthy buildings, commercial buildings that enhance well being and actually give back rather than take away from nature.

What are the usual roots in and where do you see education feeding into this space for interior designers and biophilic design experts in the future?

Developing expertise in biophilic design principles

Carlo Battisti

Yeah, that's a good point, in my personal experience, the process was very long. I don't know why it happened this way that's just life! I arrived to this point.

After many years in the construction industry but you can imagine what that was like in the 90s, or at the end of the last millenium, the situation was completely different - much less concern about the natural environment and natural materials.

The mantra was, if you remember, to just build, build, build and sell, and there was no particular attention on sustainability, outdoor space, green space, natural features.

Now, it's true that we are dealing with sustainability already for like two or three decades, considering all of the standards the framework that been developed in the same moment.

A career in biophilic architecture and the built environment

So for people starting their career now, it's really a bit different. This sustainability issue, this tension to sustainability, this need is so important that it's clearly the main focus not only for the building industry and architects or engineers but all economic sectors should really address this need for a more human connection, well being and biophilic design focuses in a more effective way.

It's important to have some technical, robust background because in the end, that is how you can deliver things. That is important.

Understanding real estate and construction

You need to know the processes behind real estate construction and biophilic design for an interior space for example, you need to know what you're basically doing as a designer, as a manufacturer, as a general contractor, because this is really what in the end impacts on the end result.

Also, in terms of sustainability and green buildings, it's important now that everything we are working with is really embedded in a broader sustainability concept.

So sustainability, in other terms, should be in the DNA of what we do as designers, contractors, or building product manufacturers, real estate developers, and so on.

Challenges in integrating biophilic design principles in built environment

I see there are really huge challenges ahead still. Like for instance, this Living Building Challenge also in the title is a ''challenge'! It's not easy, it's difficult to achieve a fully regenerative built environment.

On the other hand, I personally see a huge amount of opportunities for young professionals. And moreover, they have a really a different background. So consider, for instance, the Greta Thunberg movement to protect our natural habitat in modern society.

They have a really different approach, they know that we could do things better, that's why they are more open minded, they can really address these topics in a more effective way. Probably better that some senior professionals,

Matt Morley

For me , it was a decade working for a real estate developer, and then I moved across and transitioned into sustainability standards, organic materials, the health benefits of biophilic design strategies in an urban environment, how to integrate organic forms when evoking nature, and more generally what we term biophilic design principles in real estate and interiors from there.

Maybe that means I'm more limited, because I see new generations coming up already and they just start on the sustainability path much, much earlier than me so they leave university with really deep knowledge.

I think there's benefits to both routes still, both groups are coexisting in the job market but the new generation coming up are arguably starting even earlier than that we were able to! It's a process of human evolution I guess.

Living Building Challenge applied to urban environments

You mentioned the Living Building Challenge, we also have the Living Product Challenge, I think it's important to make that connection between the building itself and the elements that go into it, that contribute to creating a more regenerative building.

So the product challenge, it's like a sustainability standard for building components in a sense, right?

Carlo Battisti

Yeah, it's true, in fact, the frameworks really cover the entire biophilic design supply chain because they quickly understood that you need to address the entire supply chain from the developers up to the end users, because they're all parts of the same big picture if your goal is to achieve true sustainability in the built environment.

Product manufacturers in the built environment

So where is real success in sustainability to be found? Sometimes it's on the shoulders of building product manufacturers, because the way they are producing or designing their own products is really key in terms of achieving some sustainability results.

Under this perspective, the Living Product Challenge is a fantastic framework, really a Circular Economy standard or certification. So it is sort of party verified, as basically it's the application of say of the Living Building Challenge, our company is really producing a specific product in its supply chain in its factory, it is production line, following regenerative principles, so how they're producing and consuming energy from renewable sources, how they're managing the water cycle, how they're managing the waste products, is the product inspired by Biophilia or by biomimicry in some cases?

A supply chain perspective

Are they addressing this concept of beauty in the way they are producing things? What are the relationship between the company and their stakeholders, the community, their employees?

It's really a very broad and full regenerative approach with a really a circular entity in the end. I see that there are some amazing companies that register and certify their products with the Living Product challenge.

Declare label for well being

One company started with the Declare label, you know this ingredient label of forbidden products, and then they moved on to the Living Product Challenge, registered all of the catalog, and now they're producing what are considered to be the more sustainable office furniture on the market - desks, chairs, and so on.

They've been able to avoid some harmful substances that were typical in the furniture industry, like, for instance, chromium six, like PVC, formaldehyde and other harmful ingredients.

So this implies that you have like to put in place, also some innovative ideas to change your process to transform your production lines, which is not easy. Moreover, for some big industry, but these changes that they're making are really beacons of light.

And in the industry, they can also act as demonstrators that these changes are really possible. And once they they do it, then others will come, the others will follow.

Eco labels and the healthy material connection to nature

Matt Morley

To place some context on that, a lot of the products with a some kind of an eco label are often really just saying, well, it's non toxic, it is not doing harm to the indoor air environment, for example, if you place our products in your interior space, or if you use our paint, or use our adhesive.

What you're describing is something much more advanced and comprehensive and holistic in that you're looking at a far wider range of factors.

So for me, anything that's coming out with a DECLARE or even Living Product Challenge certification, it's absolutely the gold standard, it really is lightyears ahead of everything else.

I imagine that that means it is also much harder for those companies to satisfy those standards, because you're just asking a lot more from them!

They are also leading the way, right, they're showing what is possible, and being the early adopters, for the others to then follow. I think in the future, it might be a basic starting point. But to go beyond that, you need something like what you've just described?

Carlo Battisti

The healthy products debate

Yeah, well, there is you know is a big issue with healthy products in the built environment and the building industry. So let me be very frank on this.

The developer that built the Bullitt Center where International Living Future Institute in the US are based, it's in Seattle, he used to say that being compliant with the norm is only one step above being illegal.

And that through sometimes, if you remember, we took like 20 years to ban some harmful substances that we discovered were completely critical. And, and chemistry is running really faster than our capacity to understand what's happening.

You know, if this product, the products that we are using in our indoor spaces are healthy, are safe, or not. So that's why it's true, that could be challenging for these companies to demonstrate how good they are in doing some things, but it's really covering this real addressing sort of social issue this up dramatically important, so our human health, and the health of future generations.

Building product manufacturers

So we discovered that we need to start asking more from building product manufacturers to put more questions to to request the same level of transparency, for instance, we used to have in the food industry or in the textile industry.

So we learned we started learning, let's say to read into these labels to put questions so what's the product where the product is coming from? How the product is made? What are the ingredients if they're harmful or not?

Healthy building products

So this is crucially important so that's why it's true that this be challenged but it's basically covering our rights to be health healthy to see in the end and this is absolutely a level let's say of the bar that we cannot like like really say reduce because this is really very much connected with the health of our persons our people say

Matt Morley

It's almost like taking your building to the doctor's right and the doctor is looking for the the unhealthy points and recommending how to improve the health of the building and for many people it's easier not to worry about that you know you think about your own health maybe think about the quality or this the know how your food ingredients have been sourced but for many people to think about mental health of the building or the home you live in it's it's just not something.

Product standards are not high enough

Carlo Battisti

They say okay, the product should be comply with the norms. Okay, that's fine, but probably it's not enough. For instance, you are for sure following this discussion about the PFAs. Now the so there was this group of 17 June also newspapers magazine from all over Europe that completed this tremendous survey and investigation, let's say, on Where are where is PFAs in Europe, and... it's everywhere.

Red List Chemicals vs natural materials

And this is something that is used in the building industry, so the ILFI every year is updating the so called the Red List. And last year they included 11,000, new PFAs numbers in this list.

So just to say that, how is it possible for designers, but also for end users to follow all of these products, these natural materials, all of these processes are all of these developments in the chemical industry.

Declare label of ingredients

So that's why this demand of healthy products, for instance, the Declare label, is that really addressing this request is so important, because the question is really "what's in the product"? And is this ingredient harmful or not? You have to tell me, You mean in your bill in parliament of factors.

This is compliant with the so called Precautionary Principle that, for instance, in Europe is pretty common, but United States it's not so really accepted in the economy for instance, is still valid that architects and designers in the US guarantee that the product they use in the buildings are safe, not the manufacturers.

So understand it's completely nonsense is the manufacturer, that should be really the first to say, okay, my product is totally healthy and safe. That's why I can put it on the market, it's not the other way around that the end user should demonstrate that the product is safe is safe.

Standards for biophilic architecture and regeneration

Matt Morley

You mentioned the relationship there between the architects specifying individual products and imagine, you know, on a complete refurb, or new construction, there's a huge amount of information that they need to gather to process.

And then obviously, they know that they've got aesthetic concerns form and function, they've got budget, they've got to develop a client behind them, pushing them in one direction maybe being pulled in multiple directions.

At the same time. It's complex. How does the role of the type of green building certifications that you offer via Living Future Europe? How can that play a role in simplifying or providing guidance in that process?

So that there's a there's a roadmap for them to follow? Is that is that one of the advantages in doing it? Or is it more a case of having an extra resource on board who can help to bring new expertise to the consultancy team on development project?

Carlo Battisti

Yeah, I will say the work that I did for instance, with the Declare label was exactly to reconnect people and designers with the building industry, because in the end, they have been really disconnected in the last decades.

So we believe that the products are safer we live with believes that the manufacturers are doing their work properly. Sometimes we need to put more questions to look into into it. And like just for instance, really, this decline label is very simple.

So it's sort of an ingredients label for building products, where you can find all of the information on the building products, for instance, also, the expectance, let's say of life, what will be the let's say the final use of the product if the product could be recyclable, compostable, reusable, also the co2 emissions number connected through the product production.

Lifecycle assessment

So that you can also use this data for the lifecycle assessment of your building, and also of your product itself. So where the product is manufactured. So basically, it's a way to prove to provide in a simpler way complex information to and use it to the market.

This information are available on some database, and they'll say, as you said, so the role that these green building standards really played in the last decades is really to make to highlight the importance of this information sometimes could be a bit confusing.

I agree with you there is a really a plethora of labels and standards and certifications, sometimes they'll self declare sometimes that third third party verified. So it's really difficult for for end user for designers, we are really trying to make the things simpler, really starting from from the basic question, is this product safe or not?

Toxic substances in building materials

Are there in some harmful or toxic ingredients of substances or not? Then clearly, you as designer, architect and engineer they have they have to couple this information with other performance data because in the end, the product should be also performing for the purposes You select it, if it is like a flooring or structural elements on so forth, and so forth and so on.

But yeah, so we have to combine all of these things together search the right information. There are already some databases available. publicly for for designers. It's a bit complex, you have to take really holistic approach.

But I'd say this is also very interesting and, and absolutely motivated for, for the architects and engineers, because in the end, they're really responsible for the work they're doing. And the bill is they're creating the life of people who will leave in those buildings, so and they will live their life for decades.

So in the end, it's a sort of responsibility or responsible role that the planners the designers are are taking. It's, you know, it's a bit different. Compared to what happened, let's say, decades ago, we were talking only about like some architectural elements, the shape, or the layout of a building.

We were like discussing many times or the color of the ceramic tiles, but probably they are more important things to come into.

Biophilic design combines sustainability and wellbeing

Matt Morley

And how do you see biophilic design fitting into that? I've often thought of it as being this interesting hybrid of healthy buildings or healthy wellness interiors, and biophilic design focuses, and sustainability.

Biophilic Society Europe

I was interested with your role, both from the Biophilic Society in Europe, but then also with the connection to the ILFI's biophilic design initiative that always seems to get amazing amounts of press is popping up on my my Google searches every day, it seems that their various prizes and awards.

How does biophilic design fit into this? Is it both healthy and sustainable at the same time? Or how do you see that structure?

Biophilic design to enhance well being and connection to nature

Carlo Battisti

Now, very good point, Matt. Because in by chance, it is always a not by chance back to the previous version of the standard of Living Building Challenge, the 3.1 version, the Biophilia concept was embedded in the health and happiness petal.

Now with the new version, the fourth version, which has been launched in 2019, it has been moved to the beauty petal. So to recognize that Biophilia is not only about how healthy the indoor spaces are, but it's also something more... so really addressing the beauty concept of a building.

And this is very much embedded in the standard Living Building Challenge things we are doing, we really discovered that we need to address this concept in a more effective way.

This is something for instance, that popped up, let's say dramatically during the pandemic. So during the pandemic time, we were blocking our lockdown in our cities and our builders, we discovered how important it was leaving in some beautiful biophilic interior spaces and of races looking out of your window to like a park or a garden or biophilic places instead of a concrete building.

Natural landscapes

How different was our perception of the world around us, where we were basically obliged to stay in lockdown for more than 90% of our daily time, which is something that basically we are always doing like for instance, this, like this moment, we are both in some enclosed spaces.

So all these spaces are are designed and made this is really important. So we started addressing this concept of a more effective way. We started with this Biophilia campaign last year in the woods of South till the end of September.

So we basically convene 15 professionals from all over Europe, there was also a couple of persons from the Middle East, the one person from the United States, so to work and trained and live together for four days, in really very much connected with nature, with some indoor and outdoor activities from this Biophilia camp, this idea of Biophilic Society came out.

So the biophilic society is not only like the society or biophilic law or something like the societies in London in the 19th centuries. Remember, there were societies for everything. So it's not only the Society of biophilic people, but it's also the concept that society could be more biophilic.

A connection to nature

And that our message is really that reconnecting with nature could be really an effective way to save, let's say, our life, let's say in the next decades and center, so this is absolutely important that that's why we started with, with some activities by Finnish societies, basically a network or as we used to call it a linear system of passionate people around Europe and also outside the Europe.

We are meeting on a monthly basis, presenting some case studies and experiences. And now we are organizing this Biophilia Summit, which will be online on the seventh of June, 2023. It is online because it is the easier way for, for us to say to connect, the more people possible.

Even if clearly, meeting in person could be a better idea, but for the first time, the idea is really to have a larger participation and also to address by failure, not only on the architectural sectors are not not only biophilic design, but also put in by a fee in connection with other sectors like racism, with agriculture, with psychology. And obviously, also with with architecture with photography.

So there will be many examples of how we can read Biophilia through different lenses. And we are absolutely encouraging your followers to connect on the seventh of June, for a full day with a lot of fantastic speakers.

Matt Morley

Natural light and much more

So it will include the links to that in the show notes. And then the relationship between the potential of biophilia to create spaces that not only provide beauty natural light, but also mental and physical well being for the occupants in the space.

And then also, whilst not doing any harm, and ideally, giving something back to the environment around it, to transition from that type of concept into restorative sustainability, use the words early restore and then regenerate.

Perhaps it's worth just clarifying that and if you if there's a distinction between them in your mind if they have two phases, if one leads to the other, and perhaps Yeah, just to understand how we use those terms precisely around "restorative" sustainability and "regenerative".

Regenerative real estate and interior space

Carlo Battisti

Now, that's absolutely an important question. So it's important to clarify. So, we start again from Biophilia. So Biophilia is really embedded in this discussion or conversation about sustainability because reconnecting with nature is something that's vitally important.

So one of the main problem and one of the reasons why we came to this situation stems with this ecological global crisis is really the fact that we we really disconnected from nature, we really didn't understand the natural processes and flows and so forth and so on.

And also our life and our activities are really impacting on the environment and the environment is basically around us, we are parts of the environment, we are part of nature, we have the same natural elements together with other living species.

So we are always say in the same situation, the the point of sustainability is very important, because, you know, sometimes we are, so obviously, often we are very confused about this terms of sustainability, because everyone is really providing us a different explanation, a different description of sustainability.

And this is something where we should be more really very clear. So for us sustainability is a is a is really giving back to the environment, what we have been taken off. So it's really sort of zero points in the diagram, you can imagine a diagram, comparing, let's say, our actions and the impact on on on the environment.

Towards Net Zero buildings

So it's really the net zero point in this diagram, and we haven't reached out this point is still so we are still free, again, within the built environment doing less bad.

So we are designing and building buildings that are less consuming, less impacting, doing less harm. So sometimes it's also frustrating because it's always a negative concept. Again, talking about green buildings, there are buildings that they're basically doing less harm, they're not even sustainable. They're not still say sustainable.

For instance, this definition of sustainability is something that also Yvon Chouinard from Patagonia is basically providers the same, the same concept, he says, We shouldn't start, we should, we shouldn't talk about sustainability, until we really give back to the environment what we took off.

So only from that point on, we can really talk about sustainability, moving forward on this sort of ideal S curve is becoming restorative. So basically, again, talking about the built environment, or the action we can do in the built environment is really recovering the damage that we did in the past years.

Because we did a lot of damage and so weak but we can recover this previous situation and move moving forward toward a more exotic conservation means that we should really create the conditions for the built environment, the building system, and the let's say the ecosystem around us to thrive in a continuous way, in a permanent way, really as living organisms say, are we able to conceive, like, for instance, a building performance, his weight, yes, it's possible.

He's also technologically and financially via variable. So it's like, for instance, a building that is completely done with safe materials, that is producing more energy that consumes from renewable sources, and so forth and so on.

That is, let's say, providing benefits and positive effects on people and living species and beings, and so forth, and so on. So it's really a sort of dynamic concept of sustainability. And if we are always, let's say, comparing the effects of our actions to the built environment, or what's happening in terms of ecological global crisis, so where we know that we already exceeded exceeded some of the planetary boundaries, we we understand immediately that we have the urgency to do much more to do much better now.

So without like, waiting for for four years without, let's say, planning some magical roadmap, so we need to act really quickly, immediately. And the good news is that we have all of the expertise or all of the technologies and techniques available, or the materials, the strategies is really about to be be be more convinced and be more responsible of what we're doing, and and walk the talk basically, and put this this country concrete strategies into action.

Matt Morley

And in your advisory services, then how are you working with the industry? Is that typically, you collaborating with developers?

Are you spreading the message around sustainable buildings and this particular interpretation architectural design that you have of how they can do more good at a sort of purely information level?

Or are you working on a commercial scale with developers on for example, tenders or feasibility studies as well?

Carlo Battisti

We really try to spread the word on all the levels possible on the entire supply chain, with training, workshops... Education is really key. Because it's really about creating a different culture, as you can imagine, so from the end of last year, we started also provided some advisory services for some specific projects.

So we understood that it's important to follow some exemplary projects, and bring them forward, let's say to the end, so that they can become real, and they can actually act really as demonstrators of the visibility of these concepts.

Instead of providing like generic answers to all of the inquires we're receiving from from Europe is we did up to last year. Now we are really following some specific projects.

For instance, we are working on a first full Living Building Challenge registered project is Scotland. It's a fantastic school complex with all of the students from the primary to the high school. And basically they are working to create this pavilion where they will teach sustainability to their students and also to their community.

So a unique place to deal with this concept. And for instance, we are working together with with the design team on this project. We're also following for instance, a completely different situation - a standard small residential building all made in timber in Madrid, which is pursuing both zero energy and zero carbon certification.

So as you can see, there are many ways to achieve great results. And we are trying to say to work together, we are really working alongside of the consultants in this specific situation in order to, to make this process become real. So it's basically a role of facilitator. Because once these projects, these buildings are finished, then you can really you know, you can explain the case that you can explain how you did it.

And it's probably the best example that you can provide to your stakeholders because in the end, people understand that, okay, this is feasible. This is something I could do. And I would like to do for my home, my new school, my new public building, or my new office building. And, you know, it's a matter of examples sometimes.

Bolzano, Alto-Adige - a sustainability case study

Matt Morley

Very interesting. Let me ask if I may, just one final question because, Bolzano and the region you're in there in Italy just keeps coming up on my radar or has been doing that for well over five or six years. I think something is happening in that part of the natural world too...

I'm really interested to know how much it's feeding your work with inspiration? Is it providing inspiration or what is what is going on in that region, because it just seems to be, particularly within the context of Italy, which, let's be honest, is often not necessarily the first country that comes up, we might think of the Scandinavian countries that are perhaps leading the way on sustainability. But I think there's something happening in that quarter of the country, right?

Carlo Battisti

I would say that the local autonomous government is really providing a lot of great marketing, let's say, this is could be one point!

No, it's true that some specific data is a very specific situation in Italy, also, due to the fact that is local autonomous government.

So it's, it's an autonomous province. So basically, you know, all of the public services are managed locally. And sometimes people really understand how their money has been coming from taxes, has been spent, you know, schools or hospitals are managed by the local government, there are other services like for instance, police post justice, that clearly are managed at the national level. So this could be one of the explanation.

Or another explanation is the fact that there's really a sort of a ring in the chain between the Mediterranean and the Nordic environment in the same talk in from a drag geographical perspective, here, people are mostly speaking German language. So they are very much connected with the German speaking area.

And for instance, you know, that Germany and Austria and these countries have been always very keen on energy efficiency thinks for instance, here, there is a standard that stopped that we've been basically created like already more than 20 years ago, and added efficiency standard, which is mandatory for the local local builders.

So it started with energy efficiency, and then from energy efficiency, basically, this conversation of sustainability, got a broader perspective. Say it's a small region with 500,000, inhabitants, a lot of nature, a lot of mountains, you know, so in a few minutes, we are in the Mantis, it could be a sensitive environment.

So because you know, there could be like some trade offs, like, for instance, out to attract more tourists, which is something that is interesting for the economy, but without impact on the environment.

So this is a huge trade off. And this is something that is now every day in the news, because there is really a tension between these two aspects. So it's an important conversation that probably will take another another an hour to be addressed.

But again, probably this close proximity with nature is something that inspires people. More I, I moved here like years ago, so I'm not from from this region, as many others did.

And I wouldn't return back, let's be frank, I like to be here. And it's considered also, again, the most probably the more sustainable region in terms of sustainability approach, in Italy, say, so.

And that's why it's good to be here, there is this nitec Park, this noise, an acronym for nature of innovation, but it's also it's also a different understanding in terms of explanation in German, and in Italian, because it's hot in Italian. And it's also new in German.

So with the same acronym, the same term were basically addressed to the three languages, it's absolutely a great place to it's technological Park is basically, it's the renovation of an existing aluminium production plant that was used between the two World Wars.

It's a 12 hectares area acquired by the local government, and now under a huge transformation, really to create this technological park where there are startups, tech companies, and so forth. And so we settled here in 2018.

And it's absolutely a great opportunity to be here to connect with other research centers, companies, startups, you know, an eight, it's all about innovation. It's, it's a great initiative. So the idea was really, to put all these different actors in the same place.

And for the sole fact that you are meeting the real at the bar and drinking a coffee and you start talking about you know, your ID, and then you discover that could be a company interested in developing your ID or Research Center, study your ID and moving forward to create something more concrete so it's basically how this innovation processes start.

And that's why it makes sense to have this big, huge facilitator tool to help the innovation try I have here in the in the region.

Matt Morley

Wonderful. Well, thank you so much. That was really a fascinating conversation. Anyone interested in connecting with you or learning more about your initiatives or following along, which social media channels are you using for your communications?

Carlo Battisti

Well, so we are pretty active on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. So follow Living Future Europe.

We are generally updating daily, probably to much! We are doing many things because we understood that there are many topics to cover, you know, the building industry, the built environment is a bit complex, it is touching many angles.

So that's why we are really working on some topics that we find very important and key for our development. So please follow us and let us know if you need any information. I'm happy to provide them.

https://www.living-future.eu/

https://www.living-future.eu/biophilic-society/

https://www.living-future.eu/biophilia-summit-2023-call-for-abstracts-is-open/

Connecting people, places and plants: biophilia with Junglefy, Australia

Welcome to episode 060 of the Green & Healthy Places podcast in which we discuss the themes of wellbeing and sustainability in real estate and hospitality. This episode I’m in Australia talking to Suzie Barnett, CEO of Junglefy, a full service living infrastructure specialist focused on bringing more plants into our cities.

Junglefy began life as a landscaping business and evolved over the last 13 years into one of the world’s leading green wall, green roof and urban greenery businesses.  

Suzie is on the Board of the Living Future Institute of Australia, Chair of the Biophilic Design Initiative and was pivotal in establishing the Green Building Council of Australia. She’s an industry powerhouse in other words and this conversation didn’t disappoint. 

our Discussion topics related to biophila

• we discuss the all-important ‘why’ behind integrating this type of abundant greenery into a building or public space

• their involvement in scientific research studies quantifying Return On Investment on indoor breathing walls in terms of productivity, feelings of wellbeing and improvements in air quality

• why it’s so important to consider upfront not just the initial investment cost on a living wall system, irrigation and lighting as well as ongoing maintenance

• their ideas for sharing outdoor living facade maintenance costs with local councils in reflection of their community benefits and the outputs of their tech-enabled product development process in collaboration with the University of Technology Sydney

https://www.junglefy.com.au/ 

https://www.instagram.com/junglefyourcities/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/company/junglefy-pty-ltd/ 

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Full transcript follows, please excuse any typos!

Matt Morley

Could you start by giving us a quick intro to the Junglefy business? I'd be particularly interested in understanding how its products and services have evolved over the years?

urban greenery and green walls

Suzie Barnett

Yeah, absolutely. So our main purpose is to cultivate that critical connection between people, places and plants. And we are a full service organization. So we grow the plants, we consult early on in the design process of the built environment to make sure we can give the latest information on how these products should be installed, and also maintained. And then we do the installation and the maintenance.

Our systems are modular so that gives our clients an opportunity to have a much longer life for the plants than other systems. Has it always been that way? No, we started out life 13 years ago as a landscaping business but we had a lot of people asking for these things called green walls so the owners decided to start a sister business called Junglefy.

They had both businesses running at the same time, the landscaping business and the green wall business. And the green wall business was, I think the thing that excited them the most, and they saw the future in the market. They decided to close down the landscaping business and purely focus on green walls, which has evolved a lot over the last 13 years to look at roofs and facades and different types of products fit for purpose, depending on the opportunity and what the clients are looking for.

At the beginning, Junglefy was very much involved in the latter stages of the project. So we would get involved once the design had been done. It had already been contracted out to a builder, but it's very hard at that time to get the best outcomes. because you're at the very end of the process.

Today, it's very different. We get involved at the very beginning of the process before real estate developers and architects even conceptualize what they want. And clients come to us and say, what's possible, what can we do? And what's even more encouraging over the last couple of years is they're also thinking longer term, how can we design this for the longer term as opposed to that aesthetic of just looking good on day one. And then after year one, year two, year three, you know, it starts to degrade, whereas we design it to look good at year one, year five year 10, you know, well into perpetuity. And I think that's probably the biggest evolution of what we do.

the business case for adding plants, biophilia and nature into real estate

Matt Morley

What are the key drivers behind your clients decisions to to start working with you, what makes them decide they need to bring some of the outside world in with greenery, with indoor landscaping, possibly a green wall?

Suzie Barnett

It's a combination of all of those things. So originally, and still, to some degree, some people are very much driven by just the aesthetic of plants. They look amazing. People love them. But they don't really understand the deeper purpose of plants and why people love them. And I think that's what's starting to be understood in the market.

So plants look good, but they have a very strong purpose in that they connect people to that place. And they connect us with nature, which is fundamentally one of the most critical things we can have in our built environments because they have been designed really for, I call it for domination.

You know, they're engineered and they're designed in a way for us as humans to dominate nature. And what we're now seeing is an opportunity to rethink that and look at how we can design and build with nature at the forefront. So it's inclusive to, are they still? Are they still being driven by return on investment? Absolutely. But what we're seeing is a very strong return on investment for those who do include plants in the right way, fit for purpose and for longevity.

So, a couple of years ago, we actually commissioned an organization called the Center for International Economics. They are people who take data and convert it into dollar terms. And this is something that normally only governments ask for because they're paying tax, they're spending taxpayers dollars.

benefits of green walls - productivity, positivity, air quality

We asked them, what would that look like using our scientific data for our return on investment, for a particular product that we have called breathing technology, which is an activated green wall essentially. They told us that the return on investment, if you installed a breathing wall inside would be $3, if you spent $1, you would get $3.44, in return, because of the productivity gains, and the response that people have to having plants and nature inside, because they're very active at cleaning the air, removing nasty pollutants, such as co2, particulate matter, vocs.

Thanks to that biophilic response that we have with nature, if we put a breathing wall externally, the CIA report told us that you'd get $1.95 in return. And these are big numbers, these are return on investment numbers that we know the market needs, because what we're doing is still challenging the industry, it's still considered quite niche, and quite new, even though we've been doing it for 13 years and other companies around the world.

The property sector is very much price driven. We had to convert that feel good notion of plants, making people happy, into real dollar terms, and that's where we're at now. And we're starting to see that driving decision making now beyond just it being an aesthetic, we're finding the scientific research we do is driving that as well.

So developers and owners want to be able to provide a strong business case, to get the funding, or to convince you know, the CIO, entire economic times, it all comes down to dollars. So the combination of scientific research and economics is is definitely driving decisions.

It's quite frustrating, because the science on plants and our relationship to them is, is probably the largest global body of evidence you will see on anything. And yet people still question its value. Yet we see it's starting to resonate, I feel optimistic that this information is starting to hit the market, and the early adopters are using it to their advantage.

Matt Morley

I know one of the questions from a client will be - “okay, great. It's gonna cost x to setup, the upfront investment and installing a wall indoors or out, then what about ongoing costs?

From your experience, when would a living will be a sensible choice and in what circumstances should it perhaps be avoided or replaced with an alternative? There must be some instances where you just have to be honest with the client and say, look, this is going to be a challenging space to maintain long-term.

when to install a green wall and what are its challenges

Suzie Barnett

You're absolutely right, it's as much as what you say no to is what you say yes to, because for us as a business, every single plant we install is our brochure in the future. And even and it's not just ours, it's a whole industry, because we're leaders in the industry. So every failure of a greenwall is someone's reason not to do it in the future.

The initial capex cost is definitely a barrier for adoption for some because you've got different decision makers and different budgets, and what a developer will want to do may not align with the interests of the company managing that development in the longer term.

So whatever decisions they make, if they make poor decisions on lighting, if they under invest in lighting, if they don't invest in the right, fit for purpose living wall system, then they're not the ones paying for it down the track when the problems mount up, it's going to be the the future owner, facility manager, or tenants, you name it. So that is certainly one of the biggest challenges.

We've certainly said no to projects, when they have not wanted to invest in the correct lighting or irrigation system because we're also the company that's maintaining it, and we don't want to create more problems in the future, we only want to create a really good solution. The way around that really comes down to education and making sure that those who are making early decisions, are aware that they're making decisions on behalf of others in the future.

We have done this so many times, and we have so much experience, we are in a position to walk away if we don't feel like they make the right decision. That's fascinating how many people come back, when they realize, you know, this is what we really want, and we appreciate it, they want that kind of advice.

So I think in the future, or for anyone out there thinking about this, the advice I would give is, Do not think that this is a set and forget kind of decision. You can't say yes, I want plants, I want them to look pretty just on day one, you must be thinking longer term; the benefits of the plants totally outweigh any of the costs.

green facades in green buildings - living infrastructure

I spent over a decade working with the Green Building Council of Australia. And they facilitate and manage the Environmental Rating System Green Star which is equivalent to LEED or BREEAM globally, and Green Star had a perceived cost, so people would sometimes say “we can't do it, it's going to cost too much”.

We're seeing the same now looking at any kind of living infrastructure or nature based solution. And I think what's going to happen is we just need to keep educating the market and make them see that the cost is actually an investment and what you get from that investment is more benefit than financial investment.

Factors to consider before installing a green wall

Clients must think about lighting, accessibility, how will it be accessed in the future, if it's in a really hard to access place, so you can't get to it on a ladder or ropes then the plants will eventually fail because they need to be looked after just like us. So access and future maintenance is really important. Plant selection is absolutely critical. It's all about the light and it's all about what types of plants will survive inside on a north facade versus on an east or west facade.

Plants are pretty predictable actually when it comes to which can survive in those environments. And they have to see that regular maintenance is actually an investment that saves money over time. The analogy I use, Matt is, no one buys a car thinking that the day they hand over the money, and by that they never have to do anything to that car ever again. In fact, they know that they will have to get it serviced regularly. And if they do, they will get a lot more out of the life of that vehicle than if they did nothing and just drove it into the ground. Our products are exactly the same, except that the plants are living and they can be replaced quite easily!

public-private collaboration for green facade maintenance costs

The other concept that we've been considering, and obviously, this is much bigger than Junglefy, this is an industry wide idea that we're starting to talk to people about, is this idea of sharing the investment in maintenance, particularly for exterior applications. So when you think about it, a lot of our local councils, you know, they plant the trees in our streets, they maintain them, they look after them. And they do it for the benefit of the community, because we know the trees are they're creating biodiversity habitat, they're cooling temperatures down there cleaning the air to some degree, you know, they and they look amazing. A leafy Street is what adds value to any property.

So what we're finding fascinating in our conversations of late is, why aren't living facades considered the same way? Because they are also giving an enormous benefit to the community, not just to the users of that particular building? There's no shared investment there. And I see a future where potentially, there may be a contribution by local councils or other government departments. Because the benefit of those plants on facades, whether it's a green wall, a breathing wall, or green facade is community wide, not just to the benefit of the users of that building.

product innovation in green wall design

Matt Morley

So it's interesting, because you've got concept, design, plant selection, installation, ongoing maintenance, but there's also this piece of the front end around manufacturing the technical components too. Not every company out there does this and I find it to be one of your sort of USPs.

Suzie Barnett

Yes, we have taken our knowledge, our 13 years of experience and we've invested a lot in in research and development around products and our research partnerships with plant scientists at the University of Technology Sydney has also helped us to evolve our products from a very much a scientific and an engineering perspective. So unlike other living wall applications, we're not just putting plants in a pot and whacking it on a wall and hoping for the best we've actually delved deep into the science and the engineering behind how that plant will survive long term.

The first innovation that we came up with was our, our module itself. It's a square module. We purpose grow the plants into that module so that when they're installed on site, they're already grown in and established and will last longer. They don't go into shock because they're already established. And the X frame is our system of installing that on site. So you literally, we actually love seeing the X frames, once they're installed, they look like a beautiful piece of industrial design. And then we wait. So we do that on the project. And then whilst the building is undergoing other forms of construction, the plants are always the things that go in last, because once the plants are there, they need looking after. So we do all of our work up to a point, which allows us to install it in the schedule and timeframe of that construction project.

Then we wait until the project’s sort of at the very last days, which is usually the highest stress point, but then the plants come in. And what's always amazing to me is, once the plants are in people on that site to stop and go, Wow, how amazing is that? Whereas up to that point, they're a little bit like, what are you doing? And it's not till they see the plants that they realize how impactful it is, and it's literally a matter of a day.

Biophilic in public infastructure projects

Our latest innovation is we've taken our standard module and X frame, and we've put multiple, sometimes eight, sometimes 10, on what we call a mega module. At the moment we're installing mega modules on quite a controversial project in Sydney, their ventilation shafts as part of an underground tunneling project called the WestConnex. But this is a piece of functional infrastructure that sadly we need in our cities at the moment because we are still driving around in cars. And what the government decided to do was actually cover those ventilation shafts with plants and we came up with our mega module concept, which means they literally get craned on already planted, already installed. Now they're they're creating an amazing opportunity for biodiversity to establish themselves and can connect to the ventilation shafts with the parklands, so the surrounding it.

So the application of our modules, because they're modular, they can, they can be in very, very small applications, or very, very large. We've also come up with a way to rotate them for easy maintenance purposes.

So that means you know, we've put rotating walls on car parks and on the side of very busy motorways so that when you maintain them, you literally flip them. So they're facing the opposite side, it's very safe to maintain and easy.

science-backed research into benefits of green wall systems

Then our breathing technology, which is an activated living wall system, we have our standard jungle firewall, then we have our breathing wall. And the breathing wall is what we've invested most of our research into with the scientists at University of Technology Sydney, the results of our breathing wall have astounded them. And I have to say a little bit the industry, sometimes they think we're making it up, because it does sound too good to be true. But honestly, every piece of research we've done on this particular product has been peer reviewed.

So it is very much backed by scientific research. And our breathing wall is literally a system where we have created what we call a plenum, which is an air cavity behind the wall, we've introduced small fans, they're not very big, they don't use a lot of energy. They're literally the size of a computer fan or something you'd see a pipe about as big as your palm. And what the fans do is draw polluted air into the air cavity or the plenum behind the breathing wall, the air has nowhere to go but through the root systems of the plants through the back of our breathing module, directly into the root systems. And it's the plants root systems that actually remove the nasty pollutants that are circulating in our air.

As I mentioned before it's all about particulate matter, carbon dioxide and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and the Breathing wall has been proven scientifically to remove those pollutants faster than any other type of plant system on the market today. And there's a lot of other benefits as well, it reduces air temperature, it pushes out higher volumes of clean air, which means you're getting a lot better air quality. If it's applied internally, that's really what's driving that $3.44 return, because you're getting basically a biofilter. working as hard if not harder than the high tech system.

Matt Morley

I think it's absolutely where the industry needs to go Suzie - integrating this extra component of tech to enhance the tangible impact of these walls is the way to answer the doubters and take it to the next level.

Suzie Barnett

To be clear, it's actually quite low tech. We produced a version of our breathing tech, which we call our breathing stand. And it literally is to replace the volume of pot plants you would need to do the same thing. So our breathing stand, uses about 140 plants, it has its own lighting, it has its own water reservoir and irrigation. And the combination of those elements creates an opportunity to produce cleaner volumes of air in an indoor environment, then you would literally need hundreds of pot plants that are taking up valuable real estate on your floor plate.

Matt Morley

It's exactly that, the sheer quantity of plants required to have a tangible impact on the indoor air quality versus taking up floor space, it' always comes up in interior design projects in particular.

One of the things that caught my eye on your site was this Manly Vale carpark case study - not somewhere typically we're looking for examples of biophilic design.. tell us about that?

green walls for car parks and other public real estate

Suzie Barnett

Yes, absolutely. So the original design of the car park was typical of any other car park basically - it was a facade covered in steel, it was quite artistic, you know, it looked quite pretty. But the local community 100% said, No, not in my backyard. I do not want this car park. And so the government had a tricky situation on their hands.

Fortunately, somebody introduced them to us at Junglefy and we suggested our breathing technology. And that's how we innovated actually the rotating, breathing wall because it's a car park and it's a government project and they wanted the safety of maintaining it from the inside.

So what we did is we covered that carpark entirely in our breathing technology, we basically created a biofilter for a car park, which is unheard of really - usually car parks are the ugliest things but highly functional. We've now created a car park that most people don't even realize it's a car park when they drive past. They think it's some fancy bar or retail facility because it looks so beautiful.

The local member of parliament called us into his office at Parliament House and said, What did you do? Why does the community want this so badly? And we had to then explain, you know why people love nature and plants and that looking down on the carpark covered in plants actually makes them feel good as opposed to looking at something that's concrete and steel and full of cars.

So we were able to transform a very functional and require an asset to something that the community wanted. And, you know, we're hearing similar feedback on the ventilator. shafts as well like these, these assets that we have in our cities that can now perform multiple purposes. And I think this is what we have to do, we have to look at every asset, every built environment surface as an opportunity for urban greening, and do it in a way that that doesn't just look pretty it has to perform as well and actually give back more than what, what it takes.

Matt Morley

I know one of the initiatives that you're supporting is the national biophilic design award with the living future Institute. I in fact studied with them online a few years ago, I fully recommend that course too!

Suzie Barnett

This is really exciting, because the International Living future Institute has had a biophilic design awards for some time, and they have been global. But what we noticed is that there wasn't a lot of representation from Australian projects. And so the living future Institute of Australia, of which I was a board member for the last six years, and also worked on their biophilic design committee, I actually chaired the committee for some time, we came up with the idea of of localizing those design awards to really start to inspire people in Australia around biophilic design.

Australia is one of those amazing markets that when we move, we can move quite quickly. And it only takes a handful of projects to lead the way and create a point of difference that then creates competition in the market. I think it's one of my favorite things about working in property here.

On the sustainability side of properties, seeing them compete on the best sustainable, or the most resilient and restorative buildings that we're now seeing come online. So for us for Junglefy, you know, we see the Living Future Institute of Australia and the Living Building Challenge and the biophilic design competition as leading the way.

These are for built structures, not just concepts or designs. So they've been built, they're being used, they're paving the way for the future. And I think that's really incredibly important to recognize, because some of the early adopters, you know, they actually do pave the way for others. There's lessons learned in every single project. We just get better and better at it.

Without awards like this I don't think people see what's possible, or learn the lessons to be able to do it better next time.

botanical design in architecture and interiors with wayward plants

the green & healthy places podcast explores the themes of wellbeing and sustainability in real estate and hotels

Episode 059 took us to London, UK to chat with Tom Kendall, Associate Director of Wayward Plants, a botanical design collective on a mission to bring urban communities back into contact with the natural world.

Our conversation covers their work creating biophilic public benches that convey a message about inner city air quality, large scale plant donations as an ethical business practice, designing botanically inspired playgrounds, their work designing a botanical memorial for nelson mandela in liverpool and their nature-inspired sustainable interior concept for a stella mccartney store.

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lemonary by wayward plants

Matt Morley

Let’s start with a question about your ‘better air benches’. There are so many different ways of bringing nature back into the city nowadays, it is one of the things that really inspires me personally and I think we share those same values.

How can something as seemingly banal as a public bench become much more functional and play an actual role in purifying the air within the city?

improving Air quality in the public realm

Thomas Kendall

Yes. So this was a collaboration with business improvement districts (BID) down in south London. And it was kind of interesting because it didn't start out as a bench, the initial proposal was supposed to be a gateway, it was supposed to be something big and grand.

After some really interesting discussions with the BID, we decided to change it to try and in a way take up more space. And to become more purposeful and useful within the public realm.

We knew there were other people who were doing other kinds of more ‘threshold gateway-esque strategies’ in London then anyway. So we wanted to try and find a way to integrate ourselves in a little bit more of a purposeful environment, we also knew that we were going to initially be sited in Borough Market, which is obviously this amazing sort of threshold and space of exchange, of constant flux and change.

We needed something that had an element of transition to it. And for us, this idea of a simple bench was I guess, the key that unlocked that for us, we wanted something that was going to be colorful, something that was going to be very simple yet interactive. And also obviously, that one of the key parts of us has to be something green.

Unusually for us, we ended up working with a monoculture of ivy in this instance. So we filled these very simple mesh cages of benches and we filled them with English IV, which is known to be really good for air quality. And we knew we were never going to fill them with enough to actively change the air quality. But for us, it was very much about raising awareness, which is also why we didn't want to be stuck in one site.

So whilst we started out in Borough Market, the whole point with the benches was that they were mobile, they could go out and fill space. Four years later, now, I'm still getting texts from friends being like, “Oh, I just saw your bench on this street” or “I just sat in this square and had my lunch on your bench”. There's something so wonderfully human and intuitive about them, that people really warm to.

borough market, london

Healthy buildings, outside air quality and raising public awareness

Matt Morley

So let me dig into that a little bit... If we had, say, a closed environment such as a healthy building interior, or specifically a workplace environment where we might be aiming for a much more tangible set of data and outputs. For example purifying the indoor air and improving productivity but when you're working in the public realm, perhaps the sheer scale of the problem is so huge that that you're never going to be able to make a meaningful impact on the air quality in that particular area of London. So do you set out with a different mission in a sense, just to raise awareness amongst the general public?

Thomas Kendall

Yeah, that was definitely one of the client’s key concerns with this was to have a wider discussion on air quality in Southwark obviously, it's a huge conflict points, so many congested roads, curbside deliveries, all day long and the amount of pollution varies so much, even down to like the huge spike in Christmas, because of Amazon deliveries to everybody's offices.

We knew there was a problem. but we only had a budget of £30,000. You're not going to solve all of the borough’s pollution problems for that clearly! There's there's always two strands - one is just the simple factor of enjoyability. In the public realm, the basic user interface of creating something that people will regularly use and then there is the lesson to be learned from that brief experience.

It's not we try not to make it like a giant placard, you know, we don't want to put a big billboard in front of you saying air pollution is wrong, it's usually a little bit more passive or subtle. So on the benches, we included a series of educational quotes or facts about the area and the pollution levels or different plants that can benefit our health and the environment.

air quality monitors and the role of data

We also had a series of sensors that were up for six months on them that were measuring the pollution in the different areas of particular, in particular, and that they sort of as they moved around, there was some data that was collected, just showing the amount of pollution in these different spaces, that was also then streamed to the business improvement district’s website.

In this way we did manage to get a really interesting look at the pollution levels, and how just moving two streets away from the main thoroughfare the amount of pollution would lower and there's now actually a green map that's been created of walks around Southwalk based not just on that data but on a much broader series of investigations to create different pathways to get to work or school for example avoiding pollution.

moor lane community garden by wayward plants

botanical design interventions in the community for added biophilia

Matt Morley

Let’s shift onto the Moor Lane Community Garden project and the idea of creating or co-designing effectively, and architectural interventions in the form of a garden in the local community as a way to bring an element of nature back into that that particular corner of the city. Talk to us a bit about that.

Thomas Kendall

Yes, Moor Lane was a really interesting one when it comes to engagement, because there was already a small community garden there and a huge future proposal involving the whole redevelopment of that particular street. So we were initially invited in actually as a mediator between the City of London and a series of local residence groups, where there seemed to be a bit of a disconnect happening.

Our first role there was to act as a middle person to help them communicate, and to find out what was missing, what wasn't being communicated effectively, and where things might be improved. Initially, we just having a lot of conversations, we didn't even dive into design. In fact the first three meetings were all about conversation and communication. And out of that we discovered that the future proposal had zero relevance to the site and zero relevance to the community. That was their problem.

We were eventually asked to not only come up with a green intervention for the site but also to challenge the entire future proposal for it. The future scheme had no relevance to the Barbecan, and it didn't reference its architecture, it didn't reference the community.

Not only were they concrete objects that we created in the end, but they were also etched in to exposed aggregate in the same way that the Barbican had previously been hand carved. There were certain color themes inspired by the area too as well as referencing old and new planting.

It was great for us, because as well as these conversations, we got to then invite people in to do planting in the project, too. So we had a really nice hands on aspect to it beyond the design and engagement. And then following up on that, obviously, there was a big report we put together that detailed every conversation, everything that had ever been said, as well as how it integrated into the designs.

Now in fact we're back on site, again, looking at how our designs have impacted it. And we're now redesigning the new planters, to include some of the details and motifs that the community thought was specifically poignant or interesting from what we did.

Even our own design got re-critiqued re-engaged with at the end of the whole thing, and the community groups came in and told us what they didn't didn't like about those and what was successful and what they would like to see go forward. It meant putting ourselves on the frontline to be critiqued.

sustainability and social responsibility in botanical design

Matt Morley

Is see that as being part of a wider concept of giving back and incorporating a community aspect into your work, which some could say is a version of corporate social responsibility (CSR) or ESG. It's certainly a cohesive approach within the overall framework of being a business working in the space of sustainability and biophilia that you to make an effort to, to give back via plants. Tell us about that.

Thomas Kendall

So this was something that started even before Wayward was Wayward. In a way, the very first thing that sparked this conversation for us was seeing a plant thrown out of a window in New York City, strewn across the street, it was incredibly dramatic, there was a couple shouting above, some sort of weird divorce argument I think!

Well, we picked up this plant from a broken home, we took it home, cared for it, brought it back to life, repotted it, and then we gave it to a friend. And the conversation we had with that friend was more in depth than I think most conversations we've ever had. And if a single plant had activated, this new conversation with somebody that we thought we knew quite well, we thought ‘well, maybe this is a thing’.

Plant donations as a way to give back through biophilia

It was an act of exchange and a way to use nature to explore human stories. And so we started off with one plant every year, we've gradually expanded on this. So moving to like 10 plants, 50 plants, 100 plants, so creating what we call ‘plant adoptions’, where we now invite people where we collect plants from unwanted homes, and we invite people into spaces, and they have to fill out an adoption form, and prove to us that they're going to be good plant parents by drawing or describing the home it's going to go to, and only once we deemed them a good plant parent will they then get the plant in exchange. And it's become this fantastic web. It's like exploring people's stories with gardens and nature. And it's not even just about filling out the form. Sometimes it's just the conversations that you have, again around these events.

We now use this as a tool for exploring public space and for large scale engagement. And so we also now give away through the same scheme, usually around 10,000 plants a year from the RHS Flower Show, Chelsea Flower Show, Hampton Court Flower Show, so we now give everybody about 10,000 plants a year to schools and community gardens, mostly sort of in and around London gradually gradually working our way out a little bit further afield as well.

Matt Morley

It's a really unique approach to giving back. We've collaborated on a biophilic design interiors project recently together and it was a very strong calling card for Wayward, being able to contribute to a greener, more ethical supply chain. create a supply chain and a network of consultants and other sort of service providers within that project.

Biophilic design and plants in kids playgrounds

I know that there's a playground that you're involved in recently, Asteys Row in London, I find playgrounds really interesting proposition they can often be so cold and heartless. But there's so many options simply by adding some biophilia and connecting the kids back to nature. Now, I often take inspiration from playgrounds I see in places like Germany, and Scandinavia, where they just seem to have completely reinvented what a kid's playground can look like. And then I see some other ones here, around me in Spain that look pretty, pretty frightening and harsh. But tell me about as these rows row playground because I know that was one you are deeply involved in yourself.

Thomas Kendall

Yeah, so Asteys Row was really interesting projct to be a part of because it was already embedded between two gardens in a way. So it's part of the New River Walk in the middle of Islington, London but when we first got faced with it, it was this very tarmac heavy, brutal, sad, grey crumbling space, a remnant from the 70s.

Again, through conversations with the locals, we started to gather stories about what it used to be the fact that there used to be speculations around streams running through it, there were a whole sort of weird little myths about who remembered what, but the key for us was this connection between the two existing gardens, and there's this amazing boulder garden that runs through part of the New River Walk right into where this playground space was. But there was no connection between it at all it was this is like they just sliced through it, and got rid of it.

rewilding the city for more biophilia

We saw it as an act of rewilding, we wanted to kind of bring this boulder garden back into fruition. It was also when we went on site with kids, as we did when we did our community engagement work for that we didn't want to get stuck in a local town hall talking about it, we went onto the playground. And we actually basically played with kids for half a day, in the space, both in the playground and up and down the area. So really, they we got the kids to take us on tours, rather than us going out taking them on tours.

We decided to take all the lessons learned from the existing garden, that was an amazing topography and landscape and bring that into the playground, whilst also having to handle all the many things that come with a playground, you know, health and safety issues, a ball court, which is never going to be the most appealing thing, especially on a sort of slightly tight Council budget. But it was we were actually really impressed with the way that the council really took the ideas on when we mentioned this idea of a boulder garden.

risk benefit analysis in healthy green playground design

We worked with a lot of amazing play safety inspectors as well, who brought the idea of a risk benefit analysis into the project. So we're no longer that concerned about a few falls or trips or hazards here and there. It's actually now about risk benefit analysis. So if the risk is great, but the benefit is greater, then that's actually deemed to be a positive thing.

And for me, the whole thing really it came out of very much replicating the existing landscape as well as learning from my own childhood, you know, I grew up on a farm near a beach. But there's sort of translation of how I played as a child. And my natural landscape. And the lessons I've learned from that, alongside working in talking with these children, and their appreciation of the natural landscape, sort of brought it all in.

Then we you know, as well as that, that, that's just the general topography, we then play with plants and planting as well on the site, we like introducing new trees, creating moments of play in interactions where the kids felt like they could disappear and hide from their parents and then reappear and emerge, even though they were never really out of somebody's sight. So it was a really nice way of integrating the whole of the History site as well as the way it was very much used by its existing community, and then just exaggerating it and and enhancing it.

Botanical design as part of biophilic design - an outdoor memorial project

Matt Morley

Some people might describe Wayward’s work outdoor biophilic design, others might call it, creative landscaping in some instances so you can go from a playground to something like the Nelson Mandela outdoor memorial project up in Liverpool where again, you're using nature for its mental wellbeing and quasi-spiritual benefits.

I think we all connect with nature on some level, often provoking feelings of calm for example. So how do you go about taking something like that and applying it to a memorial? And why in Liverpool?

Thomas Kendall

The Mandela project is an absolute privilege to work on, as you can imagine. And when we first got approached about this, we were a little unsure if we would be able to find our place within the project but when we started researching and reading, we discovered this amazing use that he himself had for gardens.

Within the prison that he was in, he used the gardens to grow food, both for himself and the other inmates because as you can imagine, the food was not particularly great on Robben Island all those years.Then he also used it as an act of exchange between them and the prison guards to allow books to come into the space. So he used it as this tool for both sustenance and education.

He would turn the quarries into temporary classrooms during lunch. They would then educate each other. And it was all through this exchange of edible foods for books and other educational materials.

In his act of kind of digging the garden over, and he had to grow plants, he'd also then be hiding his manuscripts. So the gardens were originally built, either just dug in the ground or dug into oil barrels, which would be cut in half as a very sort of simple on site piece of infrastructure. We've replicated these oil barrels in form and scale on site, there's going to be 32 of these simple cylinder shapes that are going to have his words on. And that's the reference and the way to Mandela and his approach to gardening.

What we were really keen on is that it wasn't just a memorial or just a public artwork, I don't think we will ever do just a public artwork, it will always have to be interactive, it will always have to be education, it will have to be a place that's accessible and inviting. And so very much in the way that he turned the quarry into a classroom we wanted to turn the island that this project is going to be on, in the middle of Prince’s Park in the middle of a lake and on this island, we wanted to turn it into essentially a theater, or at the very least an outdoor classroom that is active and engaging.

Even now, it's kind of amazing, we go into schools in Liverpool, and we've been doing workshops as well with kids there. And they already understand this at the ages of 9,10,11. They already understand this relationship that Liverpool had with Nelson Mandela. And they understand the importance of this. Hopefully, when they come to use the space, in the end, they will treat it as a classroom and as a theater and as a space to engage and learn and meet as a community. And not just as a memorial. But underneath it, there will still be his words gently carved in and around the space.

stella mccartney store, london botanical installation by wayward plants

botanical interior design narratives in sustainable retail

Matt Morley

It's an example of the role of narrative and big ideas that drive your projects Tom, there's always a lot going on behind it for anyone who's prepared to engage with that experience rather than just seeing the visual aspect, there's always an experiential component clearly.

When you're working indoors in an interior space of say 300 square meters in a retail store, such as the project you did for Stella McCartney, flagship, how do you go about trying to create that same experiential component and integrate those big ideas around bringing the outside world in through biophilia using certain types of plants? It must be a very different mindset, right?

Thomas Kendall

So in a way, there was a lot of similarities, they're both very personal projects, very much dealing in a way with the image of an individual. So obviously, Nelson Mandela, he had his particular approach to gardens and Stella McCartney, she herself has a very particular approach to the environment and sustainability.

With with Bond Street store, we knew that her interior design team were very much trying to explore something new, when it came to retail, they weren't just trying to create a store, what they really wanted to look at was how to integrate elements of her life. And her own experiences into the space.

There'd be a lot more personal conversations around her upbringing and growing up and how it started to translate into sustainable fabrics and finishes, as well as treating the whole building more like a home, there was a welcoming hallway, there's this almost sitting room upstairs.

This idea of a garden is core to any domestic situation, to the sense of the home. But then obviously incomplete counterintuitively to that we needed the kind of polish expected of a flagship store on London’s Bond Street.

So lots of the finishes and stuff that were going into the design of the store itself with the all this beautiful polished brass and concrete work and playing with materials and things there was a lot of process going on invited us to go right the other way and try and keep process to an absolute minimum and to really focus on very raw simple combinations of elements.

We were speaking to a lot about her father's Island up in Scotland and her relationship to stone, we proposed this idea of a boulder garden, right in the middle of the store, very weighty but at the same time relatively calm, sort of meditative. She felt a huge resonance with this idea. She's a big believer in sort of geological crystals and things as well.

The sustainability angle was important so we made sure that every stone in the place was sourced within the UK, carved within the UK, or the mosses either came from local growers, or were recycled from Chelsea Flower Show, and built into the garden. So then yeah, it became this very interesting conversation between the simple raw material of the stone and how to integrate it into into a beautiful green retail environment.

Matt Morley

It's a really unusual case study. And I think one that adds a lot of substance to your to your credentials, as well.

If people want to follow along and read more about what you're up to, where where's the best place for them to go, or to see what you're up to?

Thomas Kendall

Maybe just to have a look at our website https://www.wayward.co.uk/ we treat it like a live news feed as well, I have to confess, we're not the greatest on Instagram at the moment. But we're getting there slowly. We're too busy being outdoors rather than just online!

If you do want to get involved with any of our plant re-homing schemes as well. There's links on there that you can either sign up to as a school or community or as a volunteer. And yeah, usually for sort of have a look about usually around April or when there's usually some really good opportunities to come and volunteer and collect plants with us and enjoy the flower shows.

Thank you very much Matt.

https://www.instagram.com/waywardplants/

Best Examples of Biophilic Buildings in Commercial Real Estate — Biofilico Wellness Interiors

Best Examples of Biophilic commercial developments

Examples of biophilic design in architecture are gaining prominence in high-profile commercial buildings around the world, here we examine the best concepts that combine elements of nature, wellbeing and sustainability

• LaMercedes, Barcelona / Developers: Conren Tramway / Architects: BatlleRoig

• Roots In The Sky, London / Developers: Fabrix / Concept Architects: Studio RHE / Project Architects: Sheppard Robson

• CapitaSpring building, Singapore / Developers: CapitaSpring / Architects: BIG

• Yorkville - The Ring, Hong Kong / Developers: Hong Kong Land / Architects: PHA

• NION, Frankfurt / Developers: Groß & Partners / Architects: Unstudio

• Holbein Gardens / Developer: Grosvenor Property UK / Architects: Barr Gazetas

Incorporating natural elements into biophilic design is essential for supporting sustainability and enhancing wellbeing.

LaMercedes Barcelona - a biophilic mixed-use development

LaMercedes, Barcelona by Conren Tramway (architects Batlleiroig)

LaMercedes, Barcelona by Conren Tramway (architects Batlleiroig)

Conren Tramway are a Spanish investor, developer group based in Barcelona and Madrid with an expansive portfolio covering office, residential and mixed-use development and investment projects.

In addition to the iconic Three Towers, ‘Les Tres Xemeneies del Parallel’, in Barcelona and various mixed-use developments in the new business distric @22 in Poblenou, this group have taken on what is perhaps their most ambitious urban regeneration project yet - LaMercedes, set to the first ‘eco-district’ in Spain integrating a variety of sustainable green building concepts, healthy building wellbeing strategies real estate ESG criteria.

What was once a car factory in an industrial area of the city is to be transformed by local architects Batlleiroig into an 185,000 sqm development that is “carbon and car-free”, a “sustainable island’“ in the city. Public services will include a museum, community center and an educational facility.

The project aims to mimic natural environments to improve the health and wellbeing of its occupants, as well as to optimize sustainability and environmental performance.

A total of 15,000m2 of retail space and 1300 residential units combined with 46,000m2 of creative offices and a ‘talent campus’ for 2000 students will make this a truly unique new addition to Barcelona’s urban landscape.

Another key feature of this ‘eco-illa’ will be the intelligent mobility system that pushes the infrastructure underground including a traffic system to leave the ground floor vehicle-free, meaning a pedestrianized and cycle-friendly experience for residents and visitors.

Expect to see an abundance of green space in the built environment, plenty of outdoor space to enhance wellbeing, an architectural design that integrates biophilic design principles and natural materials for human connection with the outside world.

https://lamercedes.barcelona/

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Roots in the Sky, London - biophilic design and natural light in office real estate

Roots in the Sky by Fabrix

Already attracting attention for its headline-grabbing 1.4-acre urban forest rooftop accessible by the local community, Roots in the Sky is a statement of intent by the developers Fabrix, showing their focus on - biodiversity and sustainability in real estate.

What was once a 1960s era building housing Blackfriars Crown Court will undergo an urban regeneration facelift into an all-electric 385,000 sq ft mixed-use development containing offices, community spaces and retail.

Based around a hybrid steel and CLT (cross laminate timber) frame that reduces embodied carbon content, the concept architects are Studio RHE led by Richard Hywel Evans and project architects are Sheppard Robson with environmental consulting support by Atelier Ten.

A passive ventilation strategy, operable windows for natural ventilation on warmer days, a feature atrium for waste heat extraction, and 1300 tonnes of soil on the roof to attract nature back into the city while protecting against the risk of flash flooding, all make this one of the most sustainable real estate developments to take shape in London in recent years, and there has been no shortage of them due to the increasingly strict planning regulations coming into place via the Mayor’s office.

That rooftop will accommodate a restaurant, landscaping by Harris Bugg, an estimated 10,000 plants and a passive water capture system for irrigation on-site reducing the building’s water demands.

This is an example of how to enhance well being in office buildings through a combination of natural light, natural landscapes and green walls as key biophilic design principles.

https://www.fabrix.london/project-item/blackfriars-se1/   

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CapitaSpring, Singapore - biophilic architecture in mixed-use real estate

CapitaSpring office building

Combine BIG Architects, a ‘city in a garden location’ and the backing of a giant developer and out comes this 51-floor, 280m high building of Grade A office space, serviced apartments and a four-story garden dubbed the ‘green oasis’.

Transforming the site of a former car park complex built in the 1980s this new example of biophilic design in architecture aims for icon status with its eye-catching exterior facade complete with vertical elements that appear to be prized apart to reveal flashes of nature emerging through the cracks, at a giant scale.

This interplay between building and nature is more common at an interiors scale but doing it here takes the concept in a completely new direction.

This is also, as we would expect, a ‘smart building’ full of IOT tech and sensors to facilitate customization of the building occupant experience.

Eight floors of serviced residences with a long list of lifestyle amenities such as a mini indoor jogging track, pool, gym, residents lounge and BBQ pits are topped by offices and the open-air garden space large enough for work breaks, lunchtime walks and more.

Natural features such as biophilic design in the interior environment, show how the developer, architects and interior designers have integrated natural systems and organic materials, natural forms and consideration for mental health, creating a seamless connection with natural environments.

To create spaces like this in modern society takes a bold vision of the health benefits of introducing an element of natural habitat back into dense urban areas.

https://capitaspringoffice.com/

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hongkong land's yorkville the ring - botanical architecture in real estate

hong kong land’s yorkville the ring

Located in Chongqing, China this 420,000m2 mixed-use retail-led development called Yorkville - The Ring is split between 170,000m2 of retail mall, 110,000m2 of offices and… wait for it, 70,000m2 of indoor botanical garden.

PHA Architects are behind the masterplan and design of this new lifestyle destination that has an enclosed landscaped commercial street embraced by two office towers.

This opens up the possibility of visual dialogue between the verdant, stepped terrace balconies of the towers above and the indoor botanical garden space.

In an attempt to blend a highly urban retail concept with a nature-centric, or biophilic design approach, the retail circulation spaces have been interwoven with the indoor botanical garden at various levels, inviting visitors to engage with the botanical experience as they navigate from one retail store to another, incorporating natural elements into the built environment.

Parametric modeling of the building facade allowed for a modular design, combining curved ceramic tiles with aluminium panels and LED lighting for an understated yet elegant aesthetic perfectly pitched for the expectations of both the local clientele and the all-important retail brand tenants.

Biophilic design principles such as respect for the natural environment in the interior space as well as natural ventilation, a strong visual connection with the natural world in respect of human evolution, even natural geometries evoking nature. There is so much goodness for human health in this building!

https://www.ph-alpha.com/project-detail.php?id=20&lang=en

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NION by Unstudio Frankfurt am Main - biophilic design in real estate

Unstudio NION office building

Designed with the deliberate intention to become one of Frankfurt’s if not Germany’s most sustainable office building, NION is located in the city’s Europaviertel West district where big things are happening in urban regeneration over the past two decades.

Unstudio have integrated ESG criteria and resource-efficient tech to deliver a sustainable building that considers its environmental impact as well as a social angle via the wellbeing of its regular occupants and of the community around it.

Abundant landscaping is nothing new nowadays in real estate developments such as this yet when combined with a low-carbon, modular and circular economy principles it takes on renewed meaning, becoming almost like the external signal of what is going on inside the building’s facade and daily operational energy use.

A green wall is one such biophilic design intervention that can be implemented to improve views and connect people with the natural environment within a built space.

When biophilia and greenery are purely superficial, this chain link falls apart; for us it a fundamental component of a biophilic design concept to combine elements of sustainability and wellbeing as in this example.

The planting serves to encourage biodiversity, contributing to an emerging urban green corridor in the district and giving insects, birds and wildlife an opportunity to return to this corner of the city.

Rainwater management systems improve water efficiency, geothermal heating and cooling reduce energy demands, smart building management ensure daily operations are fine tuned with the demand-based air conditioning (especially relevant now in the post-Covid, remote work era when areas of an office may be in greater or lesser demand at certain days or times of day).

Biophilic design focuses on well being for occupants while respecting the environment, so often there is a need for landscape architects to create multi sensory interactions via water features, naturalistic shapes, organic forms in the landscaping and so on.

Here we see a material connection between the indoor and outdoor environment by the seamless integration of biophilic principles thanks to the vision of UN Studio.

https://www.unstudio.com/en/page/16495/nion

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Holbein Gardens, London - biophilia in real estate

Sitting prime real estate near London’s Sloane Square station this 26,524 sq ft development by Grosvenor Property UK and Barr Gazetas architects dials in the sustainable building credentials to create what will be a highly efficient, low-emission building set to be Net Zero by 2025.

Holbein Gardens by Grosvenor Property UK

Sitting prime real estate near London’s Sloane Square station this 26,524 sq ft development by Grosvenor Property UK and Barr Gazetas architects dials in the sustainable building credentials to create what will be a highly efficient, low-emission building set to be Net Zero by 2025.

Barr Gazetas retained the existing structure rather than opting for demolition (equivalent to 59 tonnes of concrete / a 39% embodied carbon saving), reusing 13.5 tonnes of steelworks to reduce embodied carbon emissions, used a CLT structure, used reclaimed brickwork with lime based mortar for improved disassembly (Circular Economy principle). In total, 99.95% of all strip out waste was successfully diverted from landfill.

This all-electric, eight-story block powered by 100% renewable energy procured from the UK grid combined with photovoltaic panels on the roof generating around 17% of the projected maximum demand. As such, it is scheduled to save 50% operational energy consumption compared to benchmarks in the London, according to the developer.

Improved fenestration allows for enhanced access to natural daylight, reducing the need for artificial lighting at certain times of day.

Rainwater capture and reuse on the rooftop reduces water demand while a 714 sq ft communal roof garden with outdoor kitchen provides both biodiversity opportunities (135% net biodiversity gain) and access to biophilia for building occupants during their work days. That is in addition to the four green walls on the exterior facade.

Active travel features include 79 cycle spaces, 68 lockers and nine showers for those using active transportation methods to get to or from work each day.

Such passive strategies have obvious psychological benefits while also ensuring some ecological attachment at the start and end of a work day for example.

Cognitive function is enhanced via a connection to nature which can be both through direct experience and representations of nature, public spaces with potted plants, natural colours and local timber, outdoor areas with biomorphic forms in the garden design, if all urban environments looked like Holbein Gardens we have no doubt the foot traffic would explode as we all have this inherent need for a strong connection to nature.

A total of four different green building certifications are targeted, namely: BREEAM Outstanding, WELL Enabled, Nabers 4.5 and EPC A rating.

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Biophilic Homes: Residential Real Estate Developments with Biophilic Design Nature — Wellness Design Consultants

As real estate consultants specialising in wellbeing and sustainability, we see an increasing presence of biophilic design principles in Residential real estate developments due to the wellness benefits of biophilia (a connection with nature)

Below we review some of our favorite examples of the moment from Italy to Australia, the UK, South Africa and of course Singapore! Biophilic design focuses on integrating natural elements into indoor environments to enhance well-being, health, and productivity.

We look at Chelsea Botanica in London; Trudo vertical forest in Eindhoven; The Fynbos in Cape Town; Waterfall by Crown Group in Sydney and Park Nova in Singapore.

Chelsea Botanica, London - biophilic garden residences

Developer Mount Anvil is putting their weight behind nature-centric residential real estate developments within striking distance of central London, a powerful combination in post-pandemic Britain in our view.

The finest examples of biophilic design in architecture and interiors combine elements of both sustainable green buildings and healthy building interior concepts.

Ihttps://mountanvil.com/find-your-home/chelsea-botanica/

n this instance, the development marketing content for Chelsea Botanica is currently a little light on detail of its sustainability credentials but we do know that there are energy efficiency measures in place, rooftop solar panels and air source heat pumps as well as electric car charging points.

Where Chelsea Botanica really stands out though is in its adoption of biodiversity as a Unique Selling Point. Landscaped gardens have been designed in collaboration with experts from nearby Key Gardens’, incorporating over 70 different plants species to attract insects and wildlife back into the city.

Due for completion in 2025, the 133 residences range in format from studios to 3-beds. A range of lifestyle amenities are on offer such as a 24-hour concierge, co-working areas, meeting spaces, a residents lounge as well as a fitness area with Peloton bikes and virtual trainer screens combined with outdoor yoga decks.

Outdoor work pods in the residential gardens have access to WiFi and power points while a variety of verdant social areas and communal spaces encourage regular interaction with the on-site biophilia.

Interior design continues to the nature-inspired concept with plenty of daylight, natural material like timber, a soothing palette of earthy tones with highlights of brash and onyx.

https://mountanvil.com/find-your-home/chelsea-botanica/

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Trudo Vertical Forest, netherlands - biophilic real estate

One of the foremost proponents of reintroducing biodiversity into our city centres, Stefano Boeri Architects are behind the Trudo Vertical Forest social housing project completed in 2021 in Eindhoven. The tower houses low-cost rental apartments that come loaded with a generous helping of biophilic design.

As such this project responded to two great challenges facing urban real estate development today - that of reducing environmental impact whilst also addressing the housing shortage.

Dutch electronics firm Philips has a dominant role in the real estate market in this location and they have played a key role in promoting the development of a new creative zone in this part of the city.

Boeri’s tower is intended to help enhance biodiversity thanks to more than 70 species of plant serving to absorb CO2 from the atmosphere as well as micro-particles such as PM2.5 to improve air quality. As such the plants here have an important, functional role to play rather than being purely decorative. The presence of plants and natural elements can contribute to lowered blood pressure and reduced stress, enhancing overall well-being.

Spread over 19 floors with 125 units of social housing each of less than 50m2 that benefit from an outdoor terrace of around 4m2 and the micro-climate the planting helps to create. In total there are over 135 trees of a variety of different species, to which were added a further 8500 smaller plants, making this a true behemoth of a biophilic building!

These green facades help to decrease the urban heat island effect while rainwater is collected and stored in four 20,000 litre tanks under the building for irrigation purposes.

https://www.stefanoboeriarchitetti.net/en/project/trudo-vertical-forest/

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The Fynbos, Cape Town - biophilic lifestyle residences

digital render by developer

Swiss investment firm Lurra Capital is behind The Fynbos in Cape Town, a 689-unit residential development made up of 24 floors that integrate biophilic design inspired by the local flora (‘fynbos’).

Development architecture is by 2802 Architects, interiors are by MAKE and landscape architecture by Urban Choreography.

An outdoors lifestyle in South Africa is part of the package yet this is essentially a city-centre development in Cape Town, meaning the developer decided to double down on amenities such as a rooftop lap pool, indoor-outdoor co-working area, a rooftop fitness centre and ground-floor retail set to feature a plant-based restaurant and a botanical bar.

Units range from 24m2 studios up to 82m2 in size with 2-bedrooms, meaning this is targeting a young professional buyer with an appreciation for nature and ecology.

Exterior planting is the star of the show here, with the integrated planters providing a slice of garden for each residence, using 30 different species of trees, shrubs and plants layed out on a vertical plan, inspired by the example of nearby Table Mountain.

digital render by developer

The Fynbos is pursuing Green Star Certification from the Green Building Council of South Africa and will make use of renewable energy from its own solar panels, water efficiency via rainwater harvesting on the balconies combined with low-flow fittings. The vegetation itself plays a role as a shade structure, noise barrier and a degree of climate control in summer.

https://www.thefynbos.com/

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Waterfall by Crown Group, Australia - biophilic architecture and residential interiors

The Waterfall by Crown Group is a prime example of biophilic architecture and residential interiors in Australia. This luxurious residential complex features a stunning waterfall that flows into a serene pond, creating a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. The building’s design incorporates natural materials, such as stone and wood, and maximizes natural light to create a sense of connection with the outdoors. The interior design features biophilic elements, such as living walls and green roofs, to further enhance the sense of well-being and connection to nature.

Australian developer Crown Group are behind the Waterfall four building complex in Waterloo, Sydney made up of three 8-story towers connected by open-air bridges and a fourth 21-story tower that house a total of 331 residential units.

Designed by local architect studio SJB, the resort-style amenities include a rooftop swimming pool, spa and lounge with outdoor cinema as well as a cantilevered residents gym with a state-of-the-art equipment set-up. The swimming pool not only serves as a focal point but also promotes relaxation and well-being, enhancing the natural connections within the space.

Visually, this development stands out for its giant vertical garden walls and what they claim to be the tallest man-made waterfall in the southern hemisphere, both impactful ways to bring the outside world in by integrating an element of nature into the residential experience.

Open-plan apartment layouts and floor to ceiling windows prioritize natural light, combined with natural materials for a calming aesthetic.

Units range from studios through to 3-bedrooms and penthouses.

https://waterfallbycrowngroup.com.au/

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Park Nova, Singapore - luxury biophilic vertical gardens in the city

Powerhouse Chinese real estate developer Shun Tak Holdings are behind this freehold 54-unit luxury residence development in Singapore offering contemporary homes in a 22-story tower covered in a green facade of landscaped terraces.

Due for completion in 2024, the various units range from 2-beds up to 4-bed units of almost 3,000sq ft.

Architect studio PLP Architecture are behind the design scheme, they are known for their focus on implementing green building principles for sustainability in real estate, as shown in previous projects such as The Edge in Amsterdam and 22 Bishopsgate in London.

Amenities include a 25m lap pool, pool deck, kids play area and outdoor lounge combined with aggressive pricing make this an ultra-luxury residential development targeting High Net Worth investors with demanding expectations of their residential lifestyle experience.

The design of the dining room enhances the overall flow of the home by connecting to outdoor living areas and promoting natural light and ventilation.

https://parknova.co/

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Expert Insights

Biophilic design consultants play a crucial role in creating spaces that promote well-being and connection to nature. They work with architects, interior designers, and builders to incorporate biophilic design principles into the built environment. By incorporating natural elements, such as natural light, ventilation, and water features, biophilic design consultants can create spaces that improve occupant health, productivity, and happiness.

Role of Biophilic Design Consultants

Biophilic design consultants are responsible for assessing the site and building conditions to determine the best opportunities for incorporating biophilic design elements. They work with the design team to select materials, finishes, and systems that promote a connection to nature and improve occupant well-being. Biophilic design consultants also provide guidance on how to maintain and operate the biophilic design elements to ensure their effectiveness and longevity.

Sustainability and Environmental Benefits

Biophilic design is not only beneficial for human health and well-being, but it also has numerous sustainability and environmental benefits. By incorporating natural elements and materials, biophilic design can reduce energy consumption, improve air quality, and promote biodiversity.

Reducing Energy Consumption

Biophilic design can reduce energy consumption by incorporating natural light and ventilation into the building design. This can reduce the need for artificial lighting and heating and cooling systems, resulting in significant energy savings. Additionally, biophilic design can incorporate sustainable materials and systems, such as green roofs and rainwater harvesting, to further reduce energy consumption and promote environmental sustainability.

Here is How To Incorporate Biophilic Design Into Your Home

Incorporating biophilic design into your home is a great way to create a connection with nature and promote well-being.

Add Natural Art Pieces

Introducing nature-inspired artwork, like landscape paintings or botanical prints, can bring a calming influence and visual connection to the outdoors.

Integrate Water Elements

The sound of flowing water, through indoor fountains or water features, enhances tranquillity and mimics natural environments.

Organic Forms in Furniture

Use furniture that embraces natural shapes, like rounded edges or flowing forms, to reflect the curves found in nature.

Incorporate Low-Maintenance Plants
Select fast-growing, low-maintenance plants like succulents or ferns to bring greenery into your home. Plants not only purify the air but also enhance the biophilic effect by inviting nature indoors effortlessly.

Build a biophilic wall unit

Of course the plants play an important part. And yet, biophilic design is more important than that,” says DIYer Melanie Boyden. She has used shelving from IKEA Billy Bookcases which adds to the room's natural curving lines. Furniture usually follows straight lines and may feel cold. “Curves help reduce noise and create more connectedness to nature, and make the space feel cozier,” he adds.

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Incorporating biophilic design principles into urban environments can have a significant impact on reducing energy consumption and promoting environmental sustainability. By incorporating natural elements and materials, biophilic design can reduce the urban heat island effect, improve air quality, and promote biodiversity. This can result in a more sustainable and environmentally friendly built environment that promotes human health and well-being.

Leveraging Biophilic Design In The Casino Industry

It’s taking some time, but biophilic design is taking over modern-day architecture with its implementation of it all over the world.

On a grand scale, places like the Bosco Verticale in Italy have taken the design to another level, with shrubs and bushes covering the entire residential estate. Biophilic architecture and design is something all workplaces and even homes should consider, as the positives can’t be denied.

Between elevated productivity, the absorption of noise pollution, and elevated moods in general, the biophilic philosophy is incredibly effective and progressive.

In terms of new buildings, most casinos are known for being brash and bold with poker rooms, table games, slots, and the like. It may not seem like an obvious candidate for biophilic design, but casinos could greatly benefit from taking more of these factors into account.

In this piece, we’ll go over some of the ways casinos can bring forth that philosophy to their establishments.

Increased Productivity from biophilic design interiors

It is not easy to stay focused in the workplace in 2022, as more and more people are looking for a stress-free work environment. Adding biophilic elements to your casino can do a lot to mitigate that and instead create an environment that employees enjoy working in.

This can be done in a number of ways, whether by including a waterfall or even just plants placed throughout the casino. With so many casinos having screens and displays, you can use some of this technology to show nature on those high-quality 4K screens.

Better Customer Experience via biophilia interiors

The casino can be a roller coaster of emotions for customers, whether we’re talking about the high side of winning or the low side of losing. Casinos will see customers at various ranges of emotions, but adding plant life and nature can poise many benefits.

For anyone who has watched the World Series of Poker, the fact playing poker in a casino can be noisy won’t be new to them. That’s something biophilic design can help with, as studies have shown plants to deflect and refract sound waves. This way, it doesn’t matter if customers are frustrated or joyful; the noise level can be kept to a minimum and not negatively affect others playing.

Gorgeous Aesthetic Appeal from biophilia indoors

Casinos are usually known for their extremely bright lights, hard marble floors, and steel appliances and decorations. However, adding plants, waterfalls, natural materials, and even art based on nature can completely change the vibe and essence of your casino.

Some places will have rooftop gardens on their premises to give people a break and step away from the environment. Bring this to the casino and have both employees and customers utilize the space in between hands regardless of whether they win or lose.

Getting Closer To Nature via biophilia

In 2022 especially after the pandemic, many people have spent time inside without getting things like natural sunlight or even being around trees. Implementing biophilic assets to your casino allows us as humans to get into our natural habitat, as we were meant to be among nature, not boxed in between four walls.

Rooftop terraces, rooftop gardens, tv screens with nature backgrounds, plant life throughout the casino, all of these options and more add another dimension to your establishment.

health benefits of forest bathing aromatherapy terpenes

What is forest bathing?

Forest Bathing or shinrin-yoku is a term that has been gaining almost cult-like recognition amongst nature-centric readers since it emerged from Japan in the 1980s. This technique involves taking meditative walks in forest settings and emerging oneself in nature with the purpose of reconnecting with Mother Nature for its mental and physical wellness benefits.

The act of “forest-bathing” can be as simple as walking in the forest or as complex as meditation or other aspects of connection to the surrounding environment. As. a concept, forest bathing has been inspirational in pushing biophilic design to the top of the agenda for real estate developers with an eye on sustainability and wellbeing in buildings and interiors.

What are the health benefits of immersion in nature?

Forest Bathing can produce many positive effects for humans but some of the most important have been seen within the immune system. The main benefit has to do with the quality of air people are exposed to in comparison with industrialized smog that accompanies most city air.

All plants produce phytoncides which are organic compounds that have antimicrobial, antibacterial and antifungal qualities that create a protective microclimate surrounding plants that fend off insects, animals, diseases and other decomposition.

what research studies have been done into benefits of shinrin yoku?

In relation to the human immune system, these properties significantly increased the cytolytic activity of NK-92MI cells. These natural killer cells (NKs) have been shown to kill tumors/viruses and are thought to be derived from the phytoncides emitted by plants (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17903349/ ).

In contrast, the city tourist visit did not increase human NK activity, numbers of NK cells, or the expression of the selected intracellular perforin, GRN, and GrA/B (all important in immune responses). (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2793341/#CR37 )

Along with the boost in immune responses, forest-bathing has also been shown to reduce stress level in humans by significantly decreasing urine adrenaline and noradrenaline concentrations in both male and females. Noradrenaline is the predominant neurotransmitter released by the sympathetic system; the level of noradrenaline increases during increased physical activity while adrenaline levels increase under circumstances of novelty, anticipation, unpredictability, and general emotional arousal (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16749410/ ).

Other studies have reported that forest bathing trips reduce saliva cortisol levels, prefrontal cerebral activity, and blood pressure in humans, as well as stabilize autonomic nervous activity (Park BJ, Tsunetsugu Y, Ishii H, Furuhashi S, Hirano H, Kagawa T, et al. Physiological effects of Shinrin-yoku (taking in the atmosphere of the forest) in a mixed forest in Shinano Town, Japan. Scand J For Res. 2008;23:278–83. )

What are the benefits of aromatherapy in retail products like monq?

MONQ currently offers seven different blends of “therapeutic air” - aromatherapy-inspired wellness diffusers with zero tobacco, nicotine, or artificial flavors based on 100% pure essential oil blends. Made in the USA and launched by former Orthopedic Surgeon, Dr. Eric Fishman, the concept is basically that of inhaling the bio-hacked air via the mouth or nose.

The best way to use this product is by breathing in through your mouth and out directly through the nose, not having to inhale in the lungs. By exhaling out the nose, olfactory receptors are stimulated to allow for faster action. There are also other ways the diffuser can be used (outlined on their website) but this is the fastest acting way.

With them being an ethical and sustainable company, they are in compliance with Environmental safety requirements required by Environmental Protection Agency and are FCC Electromagnetic Compatibility which means, diffusers do not cause electromagnetic interference nor vice versa.

what are the health claims of forest aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy has been an enduring wellness method increasing in popularity during the last few decades but how legitimate are these claims to wellness benefits really?

Aromatherapy is a type of holistic medicine that focuses on treating the person as a whole and not just the symptoms by utilizing natural plant extracts for health and wellbeing. Also called essential oil therapy this practice makes use of various terpenes and terpenoids found in plants.

What are terpenes in forest bathing wellness?

Terpenes (pinene, myrcene, limonene, terpinene, p-cymene) are characterized as compounds with simple hydrocarbons structures that promote antimicrobial activities and cell rupture/ inhibition of DNA and protein synthesis.

This is beneficial because without protein synthesize, the cells in our body can’t function properly so if the bad cells (such as bacterial and fungal) are prevented from functioning, they cannot do the damage they usually would. Terpenoids (oxygen-containing hydrocarbons) are defined as modified class of terpenes with different functional groups and oxidized methyl groups moved or removed at various positions.

Some of the most common terpenes are as follows: 1. Pinene (mainly comes from pine tree resin and produces an earthy aroma that is anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory) , 2. Humulene (also with a woodsy aroma that is mainly used as an appetite suppressant),3. Limonene (bright and citruses in scent that is seen as uplifting with qualities that help reduce anxiety and depression), and 4. Myrcene (earthy and clove-like scent that produces overall feelings of euphoria and relaxation).

Research on health benefits of Terpenes in cannabis and CBD

A lot of the research being conducted on terpenes has to do with cannabis and what can be found among different strains, but the benefits can be seen similarly in aromatherapy.

(https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2590157522000153#b0065 )

Terpenes are just a sub-category of the concentration of plant extracts that go into essential oils. Essential oils that are used in aromatherapy are comprised of terpenes and other aspects of plants once their leaves, roots, flowers, etc are extracted. Therefore, you can have a terpene without it being an essential oil but can’t have an essential oil without terpenes.

From all of the different types of terpenes there are different aroma families that essential oils fall into: citrus, floral, herbaceous, camphoraceous, minty, spicy, musky and woody/earthy.

(https://www.newdirectionsaromatics.com/blog/products/categories-of-essential-oils-their- benefits.html#8-Essential-Oil-Aroma-Families )

All of these families have slightly different benefits, but some overlap as well. The citrusy (lemon, orange, etc) and woody/earthy (cypress, pine, etc) are the classes most associated with feeling energized, refreshing and emotionally balancing.

Minty (spearmint, peppermint, etc) and spicy (basil, cinnamon, etc) are most associated with feelings of motivation and mental clarity.

Musky (frankincense, myrrh, etc) and camphoraceous (eucalyptus, etc) and herbaceous (tea tree, fennel, etc) fragrances are most linked to a sense of inner calm, relaxation and grounding properties. Floral smells (chamomile, rose, lavender, etc) have the most variety in terms of effects from sleep-inducing to mood balancing.

All of these effects have been studied and shown to produce desirable results however, it is still important to note all that we don’t know on the subject. First of all, essential oils and other types of aromatherapy are for external use only and typically are taken up by olfactory nerves (receptors in the nose) and then sent to the brain.

Or, when applied topically, are absorbed by the skin and go into the bloodstream. But with the new-ness of this all, there are not a lot of concrete reasons as to why these chemical compounds have all of the effects, they have on our specific microbiomes in our bodies.

So while aromatherapy has been shown to help reduce anxiety/stress and promote sleep, it is important to note that this alone with not alleviate all symptoms and should NOT be used as a primary care agent.

FURTHER READING ON BENEFITS OF NATURE EXPOSURE AND AROMATHERAPY

- Biological Activities of Essential Oils from Selected Aromatic Plants

(actahort.org/books/390/390_28.htm )

- Aromatherapy for Pain Management in Labor

(https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD009215/full )

- The Effects of Aromatherapy on Sleep Improvement: A Systematic Literature Review

and Meta-Analysis (https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/acm.2014.0113 )

- Essential Oils Used in Aromatherapy: A Systematic Review

(https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2221169115001033 )

- The Physical Effects of Aromatherapy in Alleviating Work-Related Stress on Elementary

School Teachers in Taiwan

(https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24228065/#:~:text=The%20results%20show%

20that%20only,who%20had%20a%20heavy%20workload. )

Introduction to biophilic design concept best examples — biofilico wellness interiors

What follows is a presentation made by Matt Morley to the team at Turner & Townsend in Scotland in October 2022, introducing the concept of biophilic design as a combination of nature + wellbeing + sustainability.

biofilico Founder MAtt Morley in his biophilic home in Barcelona, Spain

An Introduction to Biophilic Design - Nature, Wellbeing, and Sustainability

Biophilic design is a concept that has gained significant attention in recent years, particularly in the fields of architecture, interior design, and urban planning. The term “biophilic” refers to the innate human tendency to seek connections with nature, and biophilic design aims to incorporate natural elements and patterns into the built environment to promote well-being and sustainability. By integrating natural elements such as plants, water features, and natural light, biophilic design creates spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also enhance mental and physical health. This approach fosters a deeper connection to the natural world, making our living and working environments more harmonious and sustainable.

Presentation by Matt Morley to Turner & Townsend in Scotland, October 2022

In a recent presentation to Turner & Townsend in Scotland, Matt Morley discussed the importance of biophilic design in promoting well-being and sustainability in the built environment. Morley highlighted the benefits of incorporating natural elements, such as natural light, natural materials, and natural patterns, into building design. He emphasized that biophilic design is not just about adding plants to a space but involves a holistic approach that considers the social, economic, and environmental impacts of building design. By thoughtfully integrating these elements, biophilic design can create healthier, more productive, and more sustainable environments.

An introduction to biophilic design - nature, wellbeing and sustainability

What follows is a presentation made by Matt Morley to the team at Turner & Townsend in Scotland in October 2022, introducing the concept of biophilic design as a combination of nature + wellbeing + sustainability.

Biophilic design is an innovative approach that seeks to connect building occupants more closely to nature. It incorporates natural elements like plants, water features, and natural light into the built environment. Additionally, it includes natural forms such as trees, flowers, and shells to enhance the connection between built environments and the natural world. This design philosophy is based on the concept of biophilia, which suggests that humans have an inherent affinity for nature. By integrating these natural elements, biophilic design aims to create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also promote well-being. The health benefits of biophilic design are significant, as it enhances mental and physical well-being through reduced stress, improved mood, and overall greater health and wellness outcomes. This approach is increasingly being recognized for its potential to improve the quality of life in both residential and commercial spaces.

Definition of Biophilia

Biophilia is the innate human tendency to seek connections with nature and living organisms. This concept, coined by biologist Edward O. Wilson, suggests that humans have an instinctual love for nature and that exposure to natural environments can have a positive impact on our physical and mental health. Biophilia is the foundation of biophilic design, which aims to incorporate natural elements and materials into the built environment to promote well-being and sustainability. This includes the use of natural forms, such as trees, flowers, and shells, which have historically been integrated into architectural designs to enhance the connection between built environments and the natural world. By integrating natural elements such as plants, water features, and natural light, biophilic design creates spaces that nurture our inherent connection to the natural world, enhancing both our mental health and overall quality of life.

The Work of a Biophilic Design Consultant in Real Estate and Hotels

Biophilic design consultants play a crucial role in promoting well-being and sustainability in the built environment. Their work involves incorporating natural elements and patterns into building design, as well as ensuring that buildings are designed to promote occupant health and well-being. In the real estate and hotel industries, biophilic design consultants can help to create buildings that are not only sustainable but also promote occupant well-being and productivity. By integrating natural systems and features, such as green walls, water features, and natural lighting, consultants help transform spaces into vibrant, life-affirming environments that support both physical and mental health.

The work of a biophilic design consultant in real estate and hotels incorporating natural elements

As a biophilic design consultant I work across sustainability strategy. I work with real estate developers and hotel groups, and I have a subdivision to Biofilico called Biofit that specialises in gym consultant services, again for real estate developers and hotel groups primarily.

Consultants integrate natural systems into their projects to enhance well-being and sustainability. This involves fostering awareness of ecological processes and incorporating them into architectural design to influence health, productivity, and environmental stewardship. Additionally, they incorporate natural forms, such as trees, flowers, and shells, into their designs to strengthen the connection between built environments and the natural world.

So taking that a level deeper, and now starting to tackle the subject of biophilic design. Any project that comes in could be something like a real estate ESG plan, a sustainable interiors or sustainability for an operational hotel.

what is a biophilic design consultant?

A biophilic design consultant may help architects or interior design teams to define a specific wellness concept, they may play an active part in concept development or concept design but in such cases they cede all creative control to the architects or designers.

What’s really interesting about biophilic design, is that it sits at the intersection of green buildings and healthy buildings. Biophilic design, sort of inter-weaves through both of those worlds, sitting somewhere between the two.

Biophilic design consultants often incorporate natural patterns and natural forms into their projects to create sensory-rich experiences. These patterns reflect nature-inspired colors, shapes, and structures, enhancing aesthetic appeal and promoting wellness by connecting inhabitants with their environment.

So right away from the more strategic piece up top, where I’m working hand in hand with the developer on a building certification project such as LEED, BREEAM or WELL, biophilic design pops up in the credits check list, and recognition is given for incorporating it.

So within the building certifications, that something like GRESB, within a real estate portfolio would expect you’d find biophilic design there.

The same with workplace wellness. And then obviously, within both green buildings and healthy buildings, there are “access to nature” credits, as well as specific “biophilic design” credits.

While I’m not designing for credits or for certifications but these standards do help to push the industry in the right direction a lot of the time, and then demand comes from there.

Why use a biophilic design consultant?

So clients will recognize that this topic is something they need to address as part of their real estate development or hotel development project, then ask how they can bring nature into what they are designing. The architects or designers may not always have the in-house resources for this type of work, in which case a consultant is required to help fill the gap.

Incorporating natural shapes can enhance visual complexity and create a more harmonious environment that resonates with natural patterns, thus improving the overall aesthetic and emotional well-being within a space. Consultants often integrate natural forms, such as trees, flowers, and shells, into architectural designs to strengthen the connection between built environments and the natural world.

For example, there are plenty of options to create biophilic wellness concepts within a healthy building strategy, or if you like ‘set pieces’ - smaller, multi sensory areas or rooms within a far wider project where you’re able to really push the biophilic design angle through.

what is biophilic design?

So what is biophilic design exactly? Well, it’s a design strategy intended to reunite indoor and outdoor worlds through the use of natural materials, forms, textures, colors, patterns, light, sometimes even breezes, we can think of natural ventilation strategies in certain parts of the world, you can also increasingly find the use of specific scents and sounds as part of the mix too. This includes incorporating natural forms such as trees, flowers, and shells into architectural designs to enhance the connection between built environments and the natural world.

We’re introducing or reintroducing the natural world back into our buildings and interiors, with the aim of positively impacting occupant wellbeing, whilst always respecting the environment. Access to views of natural landscapes can enhance human well-being, reduce stress, and contribute positively to the overall design of both interior and exterior spaces. It wouldn’t really make sense for me to do this stuff, if I was then having a negative impact on nature. The whole concept is bringing nature into the built environment so that gives us a cyclical approach whereby I also need to think about how I do that in a sustainable way.

Balancing wellbeing and sustainability in biophilic design

A project could be more wellness oriented, or occupant wellbeing oriented, and it can be sustainable but if there isn’t nature in there, then it wouldn’t be biophilic design. Natural forms, such as trees, flowers, and shells, have historically been incorporated into architectural designs to enhance the connection between built environments and the natural world.

Obviously there’s quite a lot that can happen in the healthy building and green building space that doesn’t involve nature. But when there is that all important element of nature, then that’s our magic sauce for biophilic design.

what are the responsibilities of a biophilic design consultant?

As context, I’m clearly working in this space between developers on the one side, and architects on the other. And then a lot of what I’m doing is, is helping project managers, Quantity Surveyors and the interior designers or architects to get a sense of how this will happen, how much it costs, and also trying to iterate along the way. This includes integrating natural forms, such as elements that mimic trees, flowers, and shells, into the design of spaces.

Often the client is more or less on board by the time I get involved because they’ve made an effort to reach out, they recognise a gap in their team resources and are looking to fill it in an efficient manner.

what are the benefits of biophilic design?

We can identify benefits both for people and for planet. On the people side the benefits include enhanced mood, generally making feel people just that little bit happier about spending time in any give space within a building. Incorporating natural forms, such as trees, flowers, and shells, into architectural designs also contributes to these health benefits by enhancing the connection between built environments and the natural world.

It’s interesting the effects on cognitive function too as it helps restore concentration levels and gives the mind a bit of a rest before, for example, going back to work or study.

Nature connection, obviously, has been linked to feelings of vitality, ergo having more nature around generally makes occupants feel good. That connects with mood again, and reduces stress and anxiety.

Whereas on the environmental side biophilic design can deploy a whole array of sustainable materials to help improving the indoor air quality with all these plants coming into play removing or indeed completely avoiding toxic substances by specifying natural, non-toxic materials. I’m minimizing my environmental impact while hopefully making something that looks good too.

There is lots out there around biophilic design’s impact on anxiety, effectively reducing anxiety and stress whilst it enhances and improves cognitive function. So again, concentration levels and creativity are the two to focus on as benefits.

It’s quite hard to quantify that sometimes. But there’s research studies on direct exposure to nature. And that could be going for a walk in the park or spending time in a forest. Then there are research studies, specifically on biophilic design. A lot of what we do is correlated from studies focused on spending time in nature and then effectively, we’re doing our best to recreate that or bring elements of that indoors.

Biophilic design in residential developments

The video above was a residential real estate development in Canary Wharf called The Wardian by EcoWorld Ballymore. Biofilico basically created this indoor green environment as a pre-opening sales and marketing activity with the team at The Wardian, then we did some research around people spending 30 to 60 minutes in there during their lunch hour, mostly visiting from Canary Wharf, so they were busy professionals. The design incorporated natural forms such as trees, flowers, and shells to enhance the connection between the built environment and nature.

We recorded various data points such as how they felt when they arrived, vs when they left, their perceived levels of stress or anxiety, again, upon arriving upon departure, or perhaps unsurprisingly, you generally make people feel a bit happier when they spend time in this beautiful green glasshouse with birdsong, natural aromas, plants and all sorts of little hacks that we could use.

I think more than anything, it was the data around productivity and creativity that stood out. So they had some tasks that they could do, at the end of this time that they spent in this biophilic space, and some quite tangible data that came out of the other side of that we did that with the University of Essex, in fact.

what are the key concepts of biophilic design?

DIRECT BIOPHILIA - PLANTS AND NATURE

Firstly, you’ve got plants and landscaping. In fact, most people think effectively, that’s all it is. I think, if anything I’m aiming to show that there’s considerably more to it than that, for example, representations of nature, so indirect forms of nature, so not literally a plant but other ways of evoking nature. Biophilic design also incorporates natural forms, such as elements that mimic trees, flowers, and shells, to enhance the connection between built environments and the natural world.

So clearly, plants is kind of a big one, everyone thinks of vertical garden walls, clusters of pot plants from the ceilings, indoor gardens, rooftop gardens, hydroponic farms of lettuce leaves, and things that can then be harvested on a weekly or bi weekly basis. And that all is very much kind of the common baseline for all of this.

INDIRECT BIOPHILIA - REPRESENTATIONS OF NATURE

Then there’s quite a bit further we can go from non living versions of nature, such as wall murals, wallpaper, artworks, mosaics, there’s lots of indirect representations like that, that we can use. And they’re especially useful in areas where facilities management is going to be difficult, or they’re challenged by putting in life elements of nature, and especially if it’s a lower ground space with no natural light. So in that case, I kind of flip away from direct biophilia to an indirect version.

ECO MATERIALS

Lots of materials we do go quite deep into the health and sustainability aspect, combing form and function. We can even get into bio-based materials, there’s a whole myriad of natural materials that we can use that also conveniently give you a certain natural aesthetic. So that would be a big piece of biophilic design that also conveniently connects with both healthy building strategies and sustainable interiors.

SOUND

As I mentioned, sounds, this is a friend of mine from Glasgow in fact, he’s done a biophilic sound project for the Kimpton Hotel, where he created a whole series of soundscapes, he went into forests recorded the sounds of just being in a forest, and then introduce those into a hill hotel room into the Kimpton hotel, in fact, so hotels hospitality, showing quite a serious interest in this now, largely for its sort of calming and restorative effects. Hotels are certainly getting on board.

SCENT

Scent, there’s quite a lot you can do around trying to recreate the smells of the forest. And then yeah, there’s a conversation with the the MEP consultant in how we get that done into the ducts without damaging the indoor air quality. But when it works, it can be quite a nice extra feature. And you’d be surprised how sound and scent in addition to the visual stuff.

LIGHT

Light as well can all make a massive impact in a pretty short time. So we’ve been in sort of a lobby area of a building, or in the waiting room of a spa before going into a treatment space. All of these elements can have quite a tangible impact on how someone perceives that experience. And really that’s what what I’m aiming for - having a positive impact on how they feel as they spend time in that space before they move on to wherever else they’re going.

BIODESIGN

Bio-Design is arguably one of the more avant garde aspects of biophilic design. So what we can do now is use products that have actually been grown or that are made of purely bio based materials. biofabrication would be the act of of growing a product. You might have heard of mycelium, which is effectively a mushroom based or mushroom root base material. You can see a friend of mine there in New York who’s creating a mold for a lampshade with straw husks.

So while some of these things can feel a little fantastical, as with so much stuff, give that five or 10 years and I think you’ll see that it becomes quite a central piece of of sustainable interior design, green building and also biophilic design, which is already adopting it as part of kind of biomimicry, which is the concept of deliberately recreating and cross fertilizing between nature and industrial design, or indeed architecture.

BEAUTY

It’s difficult to define beauty at the best of times but natural beauty is this other thing that when it’s there, you just kind of know it. And that’s really a challenge to the architects and designers, obviously balancing the costs and the budget, but it can often be a visual piece that just has that little something that nourishes the soul in some small way.

SET PIECES / MULTI-SENSORY

We’re seeing things like healing gardens in care centers, and restorative spaces and corporate offices in Silicon Valley. We’re increasingly seeing these small set pieces of biophilic design areas or spaces within a building, or in a courtyard of a building, that really push the whole wellness angle, and also serve to do a whole bunch of other things in terms of biodiversity, rainwater management, for example.

HERO group offices in Switzerland - Biofilico consultancy project 2018

Use of Natural Light in Biophilic Design

Natural light is a crucial element in biophilic design, as it provides a direct connection to the natural environment. Additionally, incorporating natural forms such as trees, flowers, and shells into architectural designs enhances this connection. The use of natural light in design can have numerous benefits, including improved mood, reduced stress, and increased productivity. Biophilic design strategies that incorporate natural light include the use of large windows, skylights, and solar tubes. These features allow natural light to penetrate deep into buildings, reducing the need for artificial lighting and creating a more natural and welcoming environment. By maximizing the use of natural light, biophilic design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of a space but also fosters a healthier and more sustainable living and working environment.

Incorporation of Natural Elements in Design

The incorporation of natural elements in design is a key principle of biophilic design. Natural elements, such as plants, water features, natural materials, and natural forms, can be used to create a sense of connection to nature. Biophilic design strategies that incorporate natural elements include the use of green walls, living roofs, and natural stone. These features can help to reduce stress, improve air quality, and promote a sense of well-being. By bringing the outdoors inside, biophilic design transforms interior spaces into vibrant, life-affirming environments that support both physical and mental health.

Connection to Nature in Interior Spaces

Creating a connection to nature in interior spaces is a critical aspect of biophilic design. This can be achieved through the use of natural materials, natural light, natural elements, and natural forms. Biophilic design strategies that promote a connection to nature in interior spaces include the use of natural colors, textures, and patterns. These features can help to create a sense of calm and relaxation, reducing stress and promoting well-being. By thoughtfully integrating elements that evoke the natural world, biophilic design fosters a harmonious and restorative atmosphere within built environments.

HERO group offices in Switzerland - Biofilico consultancy project 2018

Biophilic office interior case study

This is an office Biofilico worked on for a natural foods group in Switzerland, in fact, a couple of years ago, again, working with local interior designers, advising them on all the eco stuff. And it really went quite deep, because they had a lot of technical issues in that space. As you can probably tell, it’s a round shaped building. And effectively a concrete and glass block. And they have real issues with acoustics. Natural forms, such as elements mimicking trees, flowers, and shells, were integrated to address these technical issues and enhance the space.

So a lot of the work we were doing was around. Yeah, acoustic dampening and bringing some of the outside world in at the same time. So doubling up in a sense, not just thinking about the visuals, but also about how we could bring more light into the core of the building, and get rid of some of their pretty serious acoustic problems or echoes going up through the atrium to the top floor.

Biofilico concept design for ecology room in a corporate office

office ecology room concept design

This is one Biofilico was working on for a tech giant, I don’t think it’s going to happen in the end sadly but it was a big Silicon Valley player who wanted an ecology room in all of their offices - a space that these knowledge workers could spend 20 or 30 minutes in, that was entirely eco friendly and that would allow them a space to be, rather than to do. Incorporating natural forms such as trees, flowers, and shells into the design was a key element in creating this eco-friendly space.

As much as anything, I found that a really interesting example of where the tech companies are at now and how biophilic design connects with their vision of workplace wellness in particular, obviously, it’s a company that has plenty of budget for such things. And yet, it is clearly a sign of what’s to come in terms of where these corporate offices are going.

So you don’t need a lot of space, it could be just 50m2 but it can still become a calling card in terms of attracting workers back into the office, for example, post COVID.

Biofit designed gym at Karolinska Institutet Medical University, Stockholm, Sweden

university eco gym and mental health wellness space

This is a Biofit designed biophilic eco gym space within the Health Promotion unit in the Karolinska Medical University in Stockholm. Natural forms, such as elements that mimic trees, flowers, and shells, are incorporated to enhance mental well-being. It was really just a piece of unused workspace for graduate students and staff, in fact, at the Medical University, and they asked me to create a fun, interactive area where people could go and do a quick workout or just do some stretching and break away from the otherwise monotonous hard work that they’re all doing at the Medical University.

Karolinska are a very innovative and forward thinking research university in that sense. They’ve got a lot of their own researchers working on biophilic design, so perhaps not too surprising that they were willing to commission something like this for student mental wellbeing.

Beulah residences, Melbourne

Residential Real estate and biophilic design

Some residential examples from around the world. This is currently where it’s at - offices went ahead of the rest, took the lead, but now residential developments are coming round to the benefits of biophilic design too. Incorporating natural forms such as trees, flowers, and shells into architectural designs enhances the connection between built environments and the natural world. There is the CapitaSpring building on Raffles Place in Singapore by Bjarke Ingels Group for example, based in Denmark but with offices around the world.

Residential developers are looking for ways to stand out from the crowd. In London it’s interesting to see how many examples are appearing in urban areas like Canary Wharf, so a business district, or in a high-end residential area like Chelsea that is already quite leafy and verdant.

Shui on Works, PRC, by M Moser

workplace design and biophilia

Workplaces is really where it all began, because Silicon Valley were the first movers on biophilic design. Natural forms, such as trees, flowers, and shells, are often incorporated into architectural designs to enhance the connection to nature in workplaces. And so it was, in a sense, the influence from the west coast first, but it’s taken hold in the co-working sector in London for example.

The new plans for a massive Google building in New York represent a huge investment, with CookFox NYC behind the biophilic architecture and design there. In Milano there is Welcome Milano by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma where the whole concept is around biophilic design, that’s for developers Europa Resorse.

Dentista Amsterdam, Netherlands

medical facilities and healthcare with biophilic design

Medical centers now increasingly have healing gardens, a form of direct exposure to nature, while dental clinics are also incorporating this into their interiors, along with cancer care hospitals, care homes and hospitals. Natural forms, such as trees, flowers, and shells, are integrated into these designs to enhance the connection between built environments and the natural world.

So again, largely it’s playing on the restorative wellbeing card - the restorative benefits of access to or exposure to nature. Clearly it’s a bit more serious in these cases, as in, it’s not just an aesthetic decision, it’s more of a functional design strategy.

There’s a specific emotional response that the biophilic designers are looking for when they when they do this.

Same with education in that it can both be an interesting way to engage with kids in schools as well as universities. Natural forms, such as trees, flowers, and shells, are elements that engage students and promote well-being. Again, Karolinska Universitet have got vertical garden walls all around their medical university, they were an early adopter of biophilic design.

If you could design a school today, and you have the option to incorporate an element of nature, especially in a dense urban environment, I think most of us would rather have that for our kids, and give them some access to nature, anything is better than nothing.

Even if you haven’t got an outdoor space, then biophilic design basically solves that problem by bringing nature indoors. It can never fully recreate experience being outdoors, but you can get pretty close. And the kids love it!

Living Bakkali, Valencia, Spain

restaurants and cafes with biophilic design

Restaurants tend to opt for even more creative interpretations of this theme. Whether it’s using foliage wallpapers, they just seem to have a much less constrained brief. Natural forms, such as elements that mimic trees, flowers, and shells, are often incorporated to create unique and inviting spaces. So they can literally build it into the shape and format and structure of the building.

Again, just a few examples of how you can do things like SILO in London, that’s a zero waste, fully sustainable restaurant that has won all manner of awards, and is subtly biophilic in its interiors, without being too obvious.

I think places like that are sort of the cutting edge of where this is all going. They’re using biomaterials, some of those funky ones that we mentioned earlier, and really pushing the envelope in terms of what’s out there and how far this thing can go. Because the end of the day, if all of this is just decorating with plants, I think at some point, people would have got fed up or it would become commonplace. So it’s about ensuring that biophilic design evolves.

CBD retail with biophilic design

CBD retail obviously is all in North America for now but this is a real low hanging fruit for biophilic designers. And again, assuming that the legislation changes in other countries, too, then I think you’ll see very much the same approach as CBD stores take hold in the UK and Europe as well over coming years - biophilic design is a perfect fit for this type of product.

We can identify a pared back, minimal interior space with lots of nature, but very deliberately professional in style, and avoiding the stereotype of what we might imagine a CBD store to look like. Incorporating natural forms such as trees, flowers, and shells into the design can enhance the connection between built environments and the natural world.

Natural Materials in Design

Natural materials, such as wood, stone, and bamboo, are a key component of biophilic design. These materials can be used to create a sense of warmth and comfort, often enhanced by incorporating natural forms like trees, flowers, and shells. Biophilic design strategies that incorporate natural materials include the use of reclaimed wood, natural stone, and bamboo flooring. These features can help to reduce stress, improve air quality, and promote a sense of well-being. By choosing materials that reflect the beauty and resilience of the natural world, biophilic design creates spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and environmentally responsible.

Biophilic Design Patterns

Biophilic design patterns refer to the various ways in which natural elements and patterns can be incorporated into building design. These patterns can include the use of natural light, natural materials, and natural patterns, as well as the incorporation of natural features, such as plants and water features. For example, large windows and skylights can flood a space with natural light, while green walls and indoor gardens bring the beauty of nature indoors. Natural materials like wood and stone add warmth and texture, creating a more inviting and comfortable environment. By using these patterns, biophilic design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of a space but also promotes well-being and productivity.

Creating an Indoor Jungle

Creating an indoor jungle is a fantastic way to incorporate biophilic design principles into your home or office. This can involve adding a variety of plants, using natural materials, and incorporating natural patterns into your space. Features such as living walls, indoor gardens, and water features can transform an ordinary room into a lush, vibrant environment. The benefits of creating an indoor jungle are numerous, including improved mental health and well-being, increased productivity and creativity, reduced stress, and improved air quality. By surrounding yourself with natural elements, you can foster a deeper connection to nature, making your indoor spaces more harmonious and life-affirming. Whether you’re looking to create a small green corner or a full-scale indoor jungle, biophilic design can help you achieve a healthier, more sustainable living or working environment.

Famous Buildings that Incorporate Biophilic Design Principles

There are many famous buildings that incorporate biophilic design principles. Natural forms, such as trees, flowers, and shells, are often integrated into these designs to enhance the connection to nature. Some examples include:

• The Amazon Spheres in Seattle, Washington: This innovative workspace features a lush, tropical environment with over 40,000 plants, providing employees with a direct connection to nature.

• The Bosco Verticale in Milan, Italy: A residential building covered in over 20,000 plants, Bosco Verticale exemplifies how urban living can be harmoniously integrated with natural elements.

• The One Central Park building in Sydney, Australia: This building features a cantilevered heliostat that reflects natural light into the structure, enhancing the natural lighting and creating a vibrant living environment.

• The Khoo Teck Puat Hospital in Singapore: By incorporating natural elements and materials, this hospital creates a healing environment that promotes patient well-being and recovery.

These buildings demonstrate the potential of biophilic design to promote well-being, sustainability, and a connection to nature. By integrating natural light, natural elements, and biophilic design principles, these structures serve as inspiring examples of how the built environment can enhance human health and happiness.

Top 5 Sustainable Real Estate Companies for Nature Green Building and Healthy Biofilico Wellness Interiors

top five Real estate developers using biophilia for sustainability & wellbeing

biophilia = sustainability + wellbeing combined

Real estate companies in the residential, commercial, and mixed-use sectors are increasingly leveraging the occupant appeal and value-adding benefits of nature in their development briefs.

Why? For its unique position straddling both sustainable real estate (green buildings) and wellness real estate (healthy buildings); in other words, it benefits People and Planet through the built environment, which can only be good for the developer’s bottom line.

Here we look at a hot selection of developers from the global real estate industry that have captured our attention for their interest in the natural world, biophilic design, healthy indoor environments, wellness and green buildings.

• Beulah, Australia

• Coima, Italy

• Colonial, Spain

• Fabrix, UK

• Oxford Properties, Canada

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Beulah, Australia - a sustainable real estate developer using biophilic design

Beulah are behind the 25 ecologically sustainable two-storey townhouses in Melbourne called Brunswick townhomes leveraging sustainable building materials and a carbon-neutral concept inspired by natural systems.

Beulah's sustainable projects have also seen an increase in rental income due to decreased vacancy rates and faster renting of buildings. Beulah’s commitment to sustainability is further demonstrated through their LEED certified buildings.

Carbon neutral houses

Their ‘Wilds' project currently under construction contains 15 carbon-neutral houses immersed in nature with creek-front sites based on a healthy living concept, solar power, biophilia and sustainability.

STH BNK by Beulah, Australia

Their Fawkner House in Melbourne is made up of nine large-scale residences designed for health and wellness, key characteristics include abundant natural light, smart buildings systems for lower operating costs and a focus on occupant wellbeing.

STH BNK by Beulah, Australia

It is arguably their STH BNK development that stands out here though as Beulah's most ambitious development to date.

Currently under development, this UNStudio and Cox Architecture designed precinct in Melbourne will include a Four Seasons hotel, healthy living residences with garden views, pocket parks, a sky garden, auditorium, branded hotel residences and an entire level of the podium devoted to wellbeing.

This wellness precinct involves a curated selection of health and fitness practitioners focused on science, nutrition and medicine while workspaces combine co-working, sustainability, technology and greenery.

 https://beulahinternational.com/

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Coima, Italy - building with biophilia in Milan

Coima, Italy is a leading Italian real estate investment, developer and management company founded in 1974 that has set itself apart in the industry by focusing on three major aspects: sustainability, nature, and wellbeing. Coima strategically invests in affluent and densely populated communities to meet the high demand for sustainable real estate.

Coima also emphasizes governance as part of their ESG guidelines, ensuring that their projects are resilient and adhere to high standards.

With a strong commitment to these values, Coima has successfully managed to create unique and innovative green buildings, healthy building environments, and spaces that seamlessly integrate with nature.

Coima aims to create high quality real estate assets which enable sustainable growth over the long term

Porta Nova by Coima, Milano

Porta Nuova, Milan, Italy

Porta Nova by Coima, Milano

One of the most notable projects that exemplify Coima's focus on these principles is the redevelopment of Porto Nuova in Milan, Italy.

Porto Nuova is an ambitious urban regeneration project that has transformed a previously underdeveloped area in Milan into a thriving and sustainable district.

Spread over 290,000 square meters, the project has been designed with the adoption of cutting-edge green building techniques and technologies for enhanced building performance while providing access to significantly higher quantities of plants and green space.

These features not only help in reducing the environmental impact of the development but also contribute to creating a healthy building environment for its occupants.

Some of the key green building aspects of Porto Nuova include energy-efficient systems, rainwater harvesting, green roofs, and extensive use of natural light.

The integration of nature into the design and planning of Porto Nuova has been a central focus for Coima.

This is evident in the abundance of green spaces and parks throughout the development, which not only enhance its aesthetic appeal but also provide numerous benefits for the wellbeing of its residents and visitors.

By incorporating nature into the urban fabric, Coima has created a harmonious balance between built environments and natural ecosystems, promoting biodiversity and fostering a strong sense of community.

Another noteworthy aspect of Porto Nuova is its emphasis on wellbeing. Coima has ensured that the development offers a wide range of amenities and facilities that cater to the physical, mental, and social wellbeing of its occupants.

https://www.coima.com/it/homepage

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Wittywood, Barcelona by Colonial

Colonial, Spain - real estate with a conscience

Colonial, Spain, a leading real estate developer in the country, has been at the forefront of sustainable development and green building initiatives. Colonial's efforts to address climate change through their sustainable real estate projects have been noteworthy.

With a strong commitment to creating buildings that promote wellness, the company has been making significant strides in incorporating sustainable materials, energy-efficient systems, and state-of-the-art technologies into its property portfolio.

As a result, Colonial has gained recognition for its sustainability credentials and garnered international attention for its efforts in promoting green building practices.

Wellness in real estate

One of the key aspects of Colonial's approach to sustainable development is its focus on creating buildings that prioritize the wellbeing of occupants.

To achieve this, the company employs a combination of innovative design strategies, cutting-edge technologies, and best practices in environmental management.

Occupant health

By emphasizing wellness and occupant health, Colonial is not only reducing its environmental footprint but also enhancing the quality of life for those who live and work in its properties.

LEED

A prime example of Colonial's commitment to sustainability is its pursuit of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification for many of its developments.

LEED is a globally recognized green building certification system that provides a framework for the design, construction, and operation of high-performance green buildings.

Furthermore, Colonial is an active participant in various industry initiatives and partnerships aimed at promoting sustainable development and green building practices.

This includes collaboration with organizations such as the Green Building Council España (GBCe) and participation in events like the Greenbuild International Conference & Expo.

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Fabrix, UK - focused on health benefits of nature and supporting local communities

Fabrix, a leading real estate developer in the UK, is committed to implementing wellness real estate and sustainable real estate strategies in its portfolio. Fabrix also focuses on improving their sustainability performance. And they really mean business.

By focusing on innovative design, energy efficiency, and environmentally friendly materials, Fabrix aims to create spaces that enhance the wellbeing of their occupants while minimizing the ecological footprint.

Roofs in the Sky by Fabrix London

Renewable energy

Roofs in the Sky by Fabrix London

One of the key environment friendly strategies employed by Fabrix is the incorporation of renewable energy systems, such as solar panels and wind turbines, into their projects.

This not only reduces the dependency on fossil fuels but also lowers the overall carbon emissions of the buildings.

Indoor air quality

Additionally, they make use of natural ventilation systems to improve indoor air quality and reduce energy consumption related to heating and cooling.

Biophilic design

In terms of healthy building strategies, Fabrix focuses on incorporating biophilic design elements that bring nature into the built environment.

This includes the integration of green roofs, living walls, and indoor gardens that not only improve air quality but also contribute to the overall wellness and productivity of occupants.

The use of non-toxic materials and finishes further ensures a healthier indoor environment free from harmful chemicals.

The Gramophone Works, London

A notable case study showcasing Fabrix's commitment to sustainability and wellness in real estate is their recent project, The Gramophone Works, in London.

This mixed-use development incorporates various green building features such as a green roof, solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and electric vehicle charging points.

The project also prioritizes wellness by providing ample natural light, high-quality acoustics, and a range of amenities designed to promote physical activity and social interaction among occupants.

 https://www.fabrix.london/

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Oxford Properties, Canada - Combining human health and green spaces

Oxford Properties, a leading real estate developer in Canada, has demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability and wellness in their projects through the implementation of green building and healthy building strategies.

Oxford Properties has achieved a world leading position in sustainability and environmental certifications, showcasing their leadership and excellence in these areas.

This commitment is evident in the numerous case studies showcasing their innovative approaches to sustainable real estate development.

count those rooftop solar panels! Oxford Properties, Canada

Environmental footprint

count those rooftop solar panels! Oxford Properties, Canada

One of the core aspects of Oxford Properties' sustainability strategy is the integration of sustainable design features, such as energy-efficient systems and renewable energy sources.

The company actively seeks to minimize its environmental footprint by incorporating advanced technologies, such as solar panels, green roofs, and rainwater harvesting systems in their properties.

Indoor air quality

Additionally, the company focuses on improving indoor air quality and utilizes environmentally friendly materials in construction to ensure the overall health and well-being of occupants.

WELL Building Standard

A prime example of Oxford Properties' commitment to healthy building and wellness is their participation in the WELL Building Standard certification program.

This program evaluates buildings based on various factors related to human health and well-being, including air, water, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort, and mind.

The company has successfully achieved WELL certification for several of its properties, highlighting its dedication to creating spaces that promote occupant health and wellness.

EY Tower, Toronto

Case studies showcasing Oxford Properties' commitment to sustainability include their work on the EY Tower in Toronto.

This LEED Platinum certified office tower features energy-efficient HVAC systems, a green roof that reduces stormwater runoff and provides insulation, and extensive use of natural light to enhance occupant well-being.

Park Place III, Calgary, Canada

Another example is Park Place III in Calgary, where Oxford Properties implemented a comprehensive waste management program that resulted in a 77% waste diversion rate.

By prioritizing environmental considerations and occupant health in their projects, they are setting an example for other developers to follow and contributing to the creation of a more sustainable future.

https://sustainable.oxfordproperties.com/2021/materials.html

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Further Reading

• Posts in ESG

• Health & Wellbeing Strategies For Wellness Lifestyle Real Estate & Mixed-Use Communities

• Best Examples Of Biophilic Commercial Developments

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• An Introduction To Biophilic Design In Sustainable Buildings

Examples of biophilic design interiors cannabis retail stores

Biofilico biophilic design consultants review the best retail interior design concepts for medical cannabis stores in north america

Alchemy Downtown Toronto, Canada - example biophilic interior design

Alchemy is a Toronto-based cannabis dispensary brand that not only delivers a nature-based product but a customer experience inspired by biophilic design.

Designed by the Studio Paolo Ferrari, the Alchemy Downtown Toronto cannabis retail store shows influences of art, nature, and technology fused into an elevated space. The result is a sublime yet upbeat atmosphere, rather like the effects brought on by many of the products on sale here.

High technical ingenuity and healthy building materials combine to create a contemporary retail space with a touch of class in an otherwise neglected corner of the retail design industry. Things are now changing for the better with these nature-inspired dispensaries however.

Walking through the cannabis store space feels like a luxury, high fashion experience. Within the foyer, a large skylight shines down upon a circular garden central to the room. At its center, a tree sapling grows tall reaching toward the light cascading down from above. Along its sides, large-leafed plants spiral out into the white room surrounding the indoor garden. At its base, a layer of undergrowth fills the small ‘forest floor’.

Further elements of earthy, biophilic design are brought into the room through whitewashed ash wood. An organically shaped pillar of this material accompanies a curvilinear wood table that bends around the ash pole.

The strong, sunshine yellow accents present within the space are an essential element in the overall aesthetic while natural light is brought into the store via yellow-tinted glass.

Finally, circles are a recurring design theme here: a circular pattern marked by a change in material was created on the floor. In the ceiling a circle of acoustic sound-absorbing material creates a dark circle while on the walls, circular mirrors reflect back the displays of merchandise, even one of the retail store’s rooms is circular.

https://alchemycannaco.com/about/

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City Cannabis Vancouver - nature inspired interior design

This dispensary is what we would classify as a classic example of biophilic interior design. A welcome desk with a curvilinear form of a quarter circle incorporates wood paneling while on the wall behind the reception this wood paneling extends to full height, introducing a large chunk of timber into the visual experience. Each section of paneling is three dimensional in nature protruding a couple inches from the wall.

Moving into the interior of the cannabis dispensary, the wooden panelling covers the two long parallel walls. The beaming goes up each side of the wall and bends like an arch before it meets the corner. The beaming bends toward each-other and connects in the middle surrounding the room in small wooden arches.

A retail display table is a continuous piece of whitewashed wood. It extends to around 20 feet as one solid piece of organically shaped timber.

Lighting creates abstract patterns into the space, as if replicating light filtering in through a forest canopy overhead, inevitably unordered and fractal. Also placed within these nooks, an assortment of artificial plants decorates the ceiling and walls of the space, no doubt a response to low light / maintenance priorities. Placed with intent, they appear to grow outwards and are concentrated within corners of the space.

This greenery cascading down the walls and across the ceiling when combined with living plants and potted birch trees gives the dispensary a tangible connection to nature and biophilic design, the perfect backdrop for their plant-based products.

https://www.citycannabis.co/location/cambie-st/

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Etain Health NYC - biophilic design in medical cannabis dispensary

Female-owned Etain Health located in New York integrates biophilic design into their health and wellness focused medical cannabis dispensary store by Clodagh.

As shown above, a dominant feature of the space is a 20 ft living plant wall. beneath a skylight.with supplementary high-lux LED lights that give the plants what they need to survive in the long-term, all year round.

Thanks to adequate light levels and an in-built irrigation system, there are close on 2500 plants in the wall providing not just air=purifying benefits (neutralizing volatile organic compounds while absorbing mildew and spores) for the space but also a sense of calm and natural vitality from bringing the outside world in.

A Feng Shui water feature provides natural background noise through the movement of running water. From wall to floor, natural elements of oak wood and stone are used to create a reassuring, zen interior.

https://etainhealth.com/Biophila-green-plant-wall/

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Dockside Cannabis Seattle

https://www.dezeen.com/2019/11/19/graham-baba-architects-seattle-cannabis-dispensary/

Located in Seattle, Washington, Dockside Cannabis was converted into a local dispensary clinic from a pre-existing structure. It was designed to redefine the typical, often uninspiring retail experience of marijuana through the creation of a tranquil and inviting environment inspired by biophilic design interiors.

Making not only the interior of the building look open and welcoming but also the exterior facade was intended to reduce any lingering stigma around entering a marijuana store. Large windows fill the wall allowing light fill the interior space. They are complemented by a large skylight above and organic, wabi-sabi wood displays below.

Sunshine filters downward through the scissor trusses forming unique shadows within the space. From the trusses, hanging plants flourish under the natural lighting. Vines grow down into the space from these hanging plants alongside a variety of other living plants to create an abundant nature-inspired interior experience inspired by nature.

https://www.docksidecannabis.com/

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Dutch Love Ottawa

Dutch love is a cannabis dispensary located in Ottawa, Ontario that has taken a unique twist on biophilic design in its retail interiors, primarily via a clever feature in their display table joinery that uses opaque sheets of backlit plastic board with a plethora of potted plants inside, kept alive with grow lights built into the cabinetry.

By leveraging a feature of cannabis production in the interiors, while also connecting with biophilia and nature in this way, the store immediately stands out from the crowd. The rest of the space is neutral, with whitewashed walls and minimalist wood shelving structures for product displays, pot plants and lamps.

Filing the space between each storage shelf are slabs of material placed within the cubby made from an array of materials, from organically broken pieces of rock sitting next to each other, to large slabs of wood, and polished slabs of stone.

https://dutch.love

UK floral stylists - biophilic design concept

UK botanical artist

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UK floral stylist

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UK botanical artist 〰️ UK floral stylist 〰️

As healthy building advisors and biophilic design consultants, we maintain a close eye on the ever more vibrant field of floral art, styling and design. These works use living flowers, dried flowers, preserved flowers and a generous dose of design creativity to bring the outside world in - the fundamental principle behind biophilic interior design.

What’s more, we’re seeing a number of these artists integrating sustainability and ethical business practices into their value system as well, making them even more worthy of our attention as sustainable interior design consultants.

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Design by Nature

floral artist, london, uk

https://designbynature.co/

Design by Nature is a floral stylist studio based out of East London that uses experimental design in dried botanicals and cut florals, a perfect compliment to biophilic design interiors.

Their projects range from sculptures to arrangements, bouquets, and installations. Taking cues from the natural world, their botanical compositions integrate nature’s raw beauty for private clients, brands, as well as weddings and corporate events. Notable client names include Nike, ASOS, Facebook, Vogue, and Swarovski.

In placing an emphasis on sustainable sourcing, Design by Nature works solely with British flowers and dried botanicals. They also provide a flower delivery service. 

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Rebecca Louise Law

floral artist, london, uk

https://www.rebeccalouiselaw.com/installations

Rebecca Louis Law Installations is a London based floral installation company that specializes in large exhibitions of preserved flowers. With this as her signature, her works are widely recognizable in the botanical art sector already.

Along with this recurrent theme, she experiments with the contrasting states between living plants and dried, between with fresh, preserved, and decaying flowers.

She specialises in vast works that often find their natural home within museum and gallery installations. Some notable customers include Skovgaard museum in Denmark and the Chandran Gallery in the United States.

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carly rogers flowers

floral stylist, london, uk

https://www.carlyrogersflowers.co.uk/

Carly Rodgers, a Camberwell based floral artist, creates dazzling artistic installations with the floral medium. She makes stunning cut floral arrangements alongside elaborate garden installations.

By bringing the natural flora up walls and wires and into interior environments, she breaks the mould of a traditional florist and pushes into the contemporary art space.

Rodgers has been commissioned for large-scale events, weddings, and one off installations. Some notable client names include Cartier, Benefit, Michael Kors, Dior, and London hospitality destination Sketch.

Her botanical sculpture has found its place in high-profile business, renowned designers, and private clients around the globe.

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Simon lycett

floral artist, london, uk

https://www.simonlycett.co.uk/

Simon J Lycett is a luxury floral artist based out of South London, a brilliant example of biophilic interior design using flowers. He takes floral design to a breathtaking level creating magical designs for his clients. Some of his most notable and prestigious customers include the Prince of Wales, the Duchess of Cornwall, and the Queen herself.

Lycett’s floral portfolio includes weddings, special events, and commissions for historic buildings. His style is elaborate, evocative and deliberately colourful, seamlessly integrating into any building or interior with his signature touch of class and elegance.

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jam jar flowers - floral installations, london uk

http://www.jamjarflowers.co.uk/events

Melissa Richardson is the founder of Jam Jar flowers, a floral installation company based out of South London with an obvious devotion to the field of biophilic design via flowers, whether living or dried. They create intricate floral designs for events, weddings and creative projects.

Working for notable names such as London Gate and the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, the elaborate designs have grown into a notable name in the industry. With installations of flowers cascading down from the ceiling, growing up walls, and springing from the floor, her designs are perfect for anything from a product launch to an extravagant party.

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The Flower Laboratory - floral artists, east sussex, uk

https://www.theflowerlaboratory.com/home/

Based out of East Sussex, The Flower Laboratory is a big name within the UK floral industry for those that know and a dramatic example of how to integrate a biophilic design concept into commercial contexts, be they photo shoots or fashion shows.

The team’s stated goal is to provoke an emotional response from their audience by harnessing the power of plants and flowers to communicate feelings. With a large portfolio of projects and installations, they are known for their elaborate set builds for magazine photoshoots. Clients include Gucci, Vanity Fair, Harper’s Bazaar, and Vogue.

They also make arrangements, sculptures, installations and set builds for films, events, runway shows, and retail. This is all delivered by their in-house team or botanical designers, florists, plant specialists, set builders, set dressers, and floral artists.

Frog Flowers - floral stylist, manchester, uk

https://frogflowers.co.uk/services/installations-events/ 

The Frog Flower company was started by David Jayet-Laraffe in Manchester creating floral installations for grand openings, product launches, anniversaries and other events.

Their client list includes Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and the National Theatre. They also have florist studios where people can experience the practice of floral design for themselves hands on by making their own bouquets and flower crowns.

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Wild About - floral stylists, London, UK

https://wildabout.co.uk/pages/floral-installation 

Wild About is a floral installation outfit with a client list including Alexander McQueen, Michael Kors, J Sheekey restaurant, Hackett stores and Fifty Cheyne.

Floral displays for weddings and events hold a large place within their portfolio, alongside retail store flower installations and weekly flower delivery services curated to fit each different customer’s preferred style.

Endlessly creative in their retail brand store installations, they have an indulgent, elaborate style that is just right for the instagram generation where big, bold visuals are needed to capture our attention.

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Pyrus Botanicals - floral artists, scotland

https://pyrusbotanicals.com/creative 

Fiona Inglis and Natalya Ayers started Pyrus Botanicals in East Lothian, Scotland. The studio creates botanical installations for events, sets, brands, film and TV, and editorials.

Some top names of their clientele include The Telegraph, The White Company, and Strathberry amongst other fashion and lifestyle publications. They also specialize in weddings from large scale and luxury to more intimate events.

Sustainability and ethics are of high priority to Pyrus Botanicals. They source flowers from small specialist farms across Britain to reduce their environmental impact and support local businesses rather than importing from floral industry the giants such as Kenya, Colombia and the Netherlands.

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Best Examples of Biophilic Design in Healthcare: Dental Clinic and Wellness Center — Biofilico Wellness Interiors

Biophilic design integrates both wellness design interiors and sustainable interior concepts, making use of biophilic design elements such as natural building and furniture materials, shared green spaces, and natural patterns to create an ideal fit for healthcare clinics, wellness centres, and dental clinics. These elements enhance the functional and physical value of healthcare environments by promoting stress reduction and improved cognitive function. Collaboration with healthcare professionals is crucial for the successful implementation and future development of biophilic design.

Key concepts on evidence in the examples below include air purifying plants, natural colour palettes, circular materials that can be recycled at their end of life, abundant natural light aswell as patterns, textures and finishes that evoke the natural world in healthcare settings. The advancement of scientific and medical knowledge plays a significant role in supporting the benefits of biophilic design in healthcare.

Dentista Amsterdam - dental clinic biophilic design interiors with natural elements

https://www.dentista.nl/

Interiors by i29 interior architects

Dentista is a design-conscious dental clinic located in Amsterdam designed by i29 Architects that offers a dental experience designed for mental wellbeing and calm relaxation, despite the potential stressor of dental surgery. Biophilic design within the hospital environment can significantly enhance the health and well-being of patients by creating a more comfortable and welcoming space.

Abundant natural lighting ensures that plant life can be meaningfully sustained in the long-term, promoting natural circadian rhythms and enhancing mood. The use of natural patterns, such as the presence of natural light, water, and vegetation, helps reduce stress levels and improve patients' physical and psychological well-being.

Walking into the clinic, patients are met with a plant filled window atop a green strip of flooring. Down the line of sight they are met with the white of a medical building accompanied by a complement of wood furnishings. A green reception desk is color blocked by a green floor ceiling and wall.

The rest of the clinic’s interior hallways are pure white, ensuring the attention is drawn to an inner courtyard garden full of plants, providing an unexpected centre piece to the clinic experience. Trees, shrubbery and grasses make up the garden atop a pebble floor of white stone.

Within each ‘box’ (treatment room), a soothing green accent wall and ceiling skylight continue the biophilic design interior theme.

This is an example of how an image of medical professionalism and health can be enhanced with the integration of biophilic design principles

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The Well, NYC - biophilic design wellness centre with natural materials

https://www.the-well.com/new-york

Interiors by Rose Ink Workshop and Spector Group

Located within the heart of New York City, The Well is an integrated health experience that combines medical doctors and personal trainers, meditation spaces, saunas, and ancient healing techniques in one single practice, making it an ideal venue for biophilic design interiors that promote a connection with nature and create healing healthcare environments. The design also incorporates outdoor spaces such as patios and rooftop gardens to encourage outdoor activities and social interactions.

East-meets-West mental and physical wellbeing services include acupuncture, personalized wellness consultations, mindful movement, functional fitness, massages, facials, blood work, hormone panels, microbiome testing and genetic testing, to name but a few. The design considers not only their physical needs but also their social and psychological needs, enhancing the overall wellness experience.

Some key amenities of interest within the building include a meditation dome, the rest and recovery room, and the relaxation lounge.

A circular meditation dome is a design focus thanks to its textured floor rug, cushions and earthy colours - creating a balanced, calming space for psychological healing, meditative peace and a rest from the distractions of the outside world. There are surely traces of tribal rituals in this concept.

A ‘rest and recovery room’ gives clients an additional space in which to find their own inner peace for a moment during their visit. Positioned on lounge chairs between a wall of shelved potted plants and a wall of windows, occupants can benefits from the full mental health benefits of biophilic design.

Plants have been proven to reduce stress and boost one’s mood, thereby acting as an essential element of wellbeing interior design. 

A ‘relaxation lounge’ incorporates an organic color scheme along with textured walls, lounge seating surrounding the room, and a mangrove tree table centerpiece. Large selenite crystals surround the room to ensure a healing and calming environment.

St. Elizabeth Healthcare Cancer Center, Kentucky, USA - biophilic design healthcare facilities

https://www.stelizabeth.com/

HGA Architects

The St. Elizabeth Cancer Center in Kentucky pulls together a range of cancer services into a single building while deploying elements of biophilic design in the HGA Architects designed interiors, setting a new standard for healthcare spaces. Collaboration with healthcare professionals is crucial in the design process to ensure that the unique needs of each facility are met.

The center is not only focused on caring for the physical impacts of cancer but on the mental wellness aspects as well, meaning access to the healing power of nature exposure is a key concept.

Located on the first floor for example are centers for yoga, meditation, art and music therapy. This comprehensive wellness program is part of the emotional complement to the physical cancer journey.

A neutral palette of natural colors, abundant natural light, grass-like carpet tiles and plenty of textured finishes make up the interiors.

To reduce the possible stresses of navigating such a large building were color coordinated with uplifting color tones so patients and their family’s intuitively find their way around between departments.

The St. Elizabeth Cancer center creates a comprehensive healing experience for cancer patients, incorporating biophilic design and concern for physical and mental wellbeing during the cancer care journey.

best examples of biophilic design in residential interiors

O Lofos Villa by Blok 722, Greece

organic interior design example

Built on the foothills of Thrypti mountain on the Greek island of Crete lies a hidden villa built with respect to its surroundings.

It is a 280m2 private residence on a sloping terrain. Instead of stairs to balance the natural elevation, a series of levels were created to allow ease of movement physically and visually throughout the space.

When creating this design, the architects pulled from a variety of structural backgrounds combining aspects of vistas from mountains, plains, and the Mediterranean Sea.

This allows it to fit cohesively within its natural setting. The vista has plentiful outdoor areas to promote healthy living.

With the site broken down into multiple smaller segments, movement through nature is encouraged in-between spaces, many of which are outdoors. The main division of the building is linked by a semi enclosed feature where the sounds of giggling water can be heard from a large water feature.

The materials used with the natural villa are largely wood and stone which bring the natural elements of biophilic interior design within its walls.

Painted with a palette of warm greys and beiges, neutral, earthy colors dominate the space. The villa was created with a desire for slow living. Its layout, structure, and divide was created to enhance the lifestyle of its occupants to promote healthy living. 

https://www.block722.com/o-lofos/

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Landmark Pinnacle, London, UK

example biophilic design indoor garden

Rising up above the London skyline as the city’s tallest residential tower, the Landmark Pinnacle was completed in 2022 by architects and interior designers Squire & Partners for developer Chalegrove Properties and Farrer Huxley Associates (FHA) Landscape Architects.

This residential complex has views westward of the River Thames and eastward of the docks of the Thames Barrier. These natural vistas are complemented with an earthy, soothing interior palette of blues, beiges, tans, whites and browns.

Biophilic elements of design such as potted plants, dried flowers and stones ornament the building tying it back to the natural environment. Taking a step further into nature, a floor is dedicated to pulling its occupants out of the cityscape.

Residing on the 27th floor of the building, a residential tropical garden brings the outside world in with a carefully curated collection of plants and indoor trees, the space is perfect for watching the sun rise or set as natural light shoots through the open elaborate floor of plants.

There are spaces for lounging and for relaxation. This encourages the residents to escape the intensity of nearby Canary Wharf in order to appreciate their own private slice of nature high up in the sky.

https://landmarkpinnacle.com/

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Pantheon Estate, Mykonos by Nikos Adrianopoulos

example organic interiors

A renovation by architect Nikos Adrianopoulos of a residence in Mykonos, Greece, transformed an existing villa into a luxury abode with subtle influences from both organic interior design and nature-inspired biophilic design.

Built upon a cliff, the villa has impressive views of the old city harbor and the Aegean Sea. Essential to its design process was the unification of internal and external space. Large outdoor areas accompany the indoors encouraging movement from each space.

The outdoor areas have natural views of the landscape from a sky porch with no railings ensuring not to block the breathtaking views of the area. Accompanying this, biophilic design in the exteriors ensures a smooth transition between the building and its surrounding landscape. Curvilinear furniture such as chairs, large couches, and tables are placed purposefully, making use of premium fabrics, a minimalist colour palette and textured patterns.

The view from an organically shaped pool provides picture perfect views of the sea on the horizon while an outdoor gym provides a complete set of workout equipment such as a squat rack,weights and cardio machines. Stone walls, wooden floors, and a transparent plant-based ceiling that lets small slices of light into the gym's training floor.

Moving indoors, the interior design is a harmonious selection of neutral colors - tans, whites, browns, beiges, and blacks. Curvilinear architecture brings nature’s mark inside through arches and curved organically falling countertops.

Examples of biophilic interior design are present in the woven light fixtures, stone sinks, and stone tile. One of the key elements of design within the space was created from the bare rock that the structure was built upon through open rock walls. Bare rock walls are exposed within the sunroom and bathroom, among other spaces.

Painted white bare rock walls create a wonderful natural space within a shower and sauna. Bringing nature further within the walls quarters, wood beams expand across many of the villa ceilings. The space is adorned with artwork of driftwood and curvilinear, undefined sculpture work. This renovation transformed the space into an interconnected body with its natural environment.

https://www.nikosadrianopoulos.com/projects/pantheon-residence-mykonos

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The Eden, Singapore

example of multi-family residential biophilic architecture

The Eden is a private residential building located in Singapore designed by Heatherwick Studio.

From its exterior facade the key principle of biophilic design in building architecture is hard to miss - a cascading central spine of flora created by a series of balcony gardens.

Each apartment is one floor of the building fitted with its own ‘eco-balcony’.

Clam shaped in structure, they each hold sufficient soil for over 20 different species of plant life to thrive in the humid Singaporean climate.

Each sky garden is alternated giving double the height to the outdoor space.

The garden above provides a necessary shade from the hot Singapore sun and a view of plant life hanging down from above. Walking out into these spaces is like walking into your own personal jungle.

Each apartment taking an entire floor also creates opportunities for natural cross ventilation, a low-energy and altogether more pleasant experience than 24/7 air conditioning, at least as an option should owners want it!

The entire ground floor is a heavily planted garden with nooks for relaxation. The pool is lined with an array of flora to one side. Walking into the lobby with 18 meter high ceilings, plant ‘chandeliers’ hang from above helping to decorate the room but creating moments of visual intrigue and wonder too.

https://www.heatherwick.com/projects/buildings/eden/

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Casa Cerros Madrid

example of single family residential biophilic architecture

Located in the hills of Madrid, the Casa Cerros estate was renovated into a. sustainable villa with subtle traces of biophilic design that uses compact space to its maximum potential.

Located in what can be a cool climate, the villa was constructed to amplify heat and sunlight.

With a narrow south facing facade, the team at sustainable architecture studio SLOW in Barcelona had to effectively use the space to pull in as much natural light as possible.

This was executed by lifting the roof creating room for the addition of skylights and additional openings to the south through biophilic design architecture.

Amplifying the introduction of light and solar heat into the south side of the building also affected the placement of rooms within the home.

On the lighter south facing side, the most used spaces were constructed including the living room, dining room, and kitchen.

Within the North facing side of the building, the bathrooms, office, and machine room are housed. Double brick walls with insulation in between allow for heat conservation while also allowing for open brick accent walls with texture of thickness and grooves.

The residents particularly requested a fireplace so a thermo stove was installed to further conserve heat. When the fireplace is running it heats the hot water tank and heating system.

The whole building is unified through a cabin like aesthetic with a large incorporation of wooden walls, ceiling, and furniture. The villa acts as a compact, warm, rustic yet nature-inspired space for a family to enjoy the comfort of home without losing contact with the environment around them.

https://www.slowstudio.es/arquitectura/casa-cerros-madrid

Best New Biophilic Hotel Resorts Using Biophilic Design Interiors — Biofilico Wellness Interiors

biophilic design by Jean Nouvel

Rosewood Sao Paulo luxury hotel with natural materials

https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/sao-paulo

This 93 metre high tower in Brazil was designed by Ateliers Jean Nouvel (AJN) and completed in 2022. It houses the Rosewood Sao Paulo hotel with 104 rooms and 124 branded Rosewood suites, as well as a spa, fitness centre and penthouse complex.

The Rosewood Sao Paulo hotel is an example of how biophilic design is reshaping the hospitality industry by meeting evolving guest expectations and creating a unique and immersive experience.

Bordering Matarazzo Park, this 54,100 m² project combines elements of biophilic design with its parkside location to offer a hotel experience connected to nature despite being in a giant metropolis.

Terraces are planted with the same tree species as present in the park to create a sense of visual continuity as well as providing additional privacy for residents and hotel guests inside.

Previously this was the site of the Condessa Filomena Matarazzo Maternity Hospital, thanks in part to the landscaping by Julien Benech from Paris the transformation into a sustainable luxury tower is now largely defined by its nature-centric aesthetics. Biophilic interior designs foster unique and memorable guest experiences by creating a connection to the natural world through elements like wooden materials, living walls, plants, natural lighting, and indoor water bodies.

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Biophilic hotel design with natural light

TreeHouse Hotel London, UK

https://www.treehousehotels.com/london/gallery

The TreeHouse Hotel shares some of the 1 Hotels DNA as it forms part of SH Hotels & Resorts, an affiliate of global private investment firm Starwood Capital Group led by Chairman and CEO Barry Sternlicht. So it’s no surprise to see certain similarities between the two biophilic hotel brands, albeit with a number of clear points of differentiation.

Most notably, the Treehouse brand has a smaller format, and perhaps a more ‘eco premium’ positioning, while 1 Hotels is really all about ‘eco luxury.’ This arguably makes the brand more nimble and able to adapt to a wider range of locations, such as its forthcoming Downtown Miami, Brickell site designed in collaboration with Rockwell Group and SHoP Architects in the JDS Development Group’s 1 Southside Park.

A Treehouse Hotel Manchester is also under development, scheduled for opening in 2023. In the London outpost though, it’s all about those large bay windows letting natural daylight flood in from the cityscape outside. Internal glass walls further pull sunlight into the interior of the building increasing the amount of natural light occupant exposure. Interiors are courtesy of the team at Audrey Sterk Interiors.

The rooms are designed to be cozy and welcoming like a childhood clubhouse. They use a color palette of grays, blues, brown and whites. Color palettes are a key interior design element that can evoke a sense of connectivity to nature and reflect the personality of the destination. There is a large quantity of wood used throughout the rooms within the closet, door, window, and bed frames, desks, tables, chairs, and shelves. This brings the tangible feel of nature into the interior of the building through biophilic interior design. A variety of natural materials such as wood, wool, and cotton are used to create a natural and sustainable atmosphere.

A rain shower is also included in each room within a large open spaced tile shower. Each room is playfully accented with iconic London memorabilia and accessories such as cartoon mushroom pillows, plants, and the Paddington Bear with Red Hat Blue Coat. This makes the environment of the room playful, ensuring a disarmingly informal setting for such a city-centre location.

A range of biophilic elements of design are present such as birch tree wallpaper accent walls, leaf designed pillows, whicker lights, and a bar with a bare stone facade.

Moving to the roofscape, plants line a large majority of the area with extensive garden boxes and living walls filled with a variety of flora. A small jungle is created with a beautiful panoramic view of the city.

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The world's most biophilic hotel

1 Hotel West Hollywood, USA

https://www.1hotels.com/west-hollywood/gallery

Within the hills of West Hollywood, the 1 Hotel pulls nature inwards, placing it at the center stage of its biophilic interior design. Native species of plants line the outdoors alongside heavily planted gardens. Vines cascade down from the rooftop gardens giving depth of flora to the biophilic space.

The hotel’s design integrates the natural environment to prioritize sustainability and guest well-being. This helps city dwellers reconnect with natural surroundings, leading to benefits such as stress reduction and higher attention spans.

The hotel is USGBC LEED certified meaning it takes deliberate, measurable steps to ensure efficiency in carbon emissions, energy use, water use, waste management, transportation, building materials, occupant health and indoor environmental quality (EQ).

A sustainable building design meant that a series of sustainable hotel operational practices were also needed, from the elimination of single use plastics, to the provision of electric car charging stations, and onsite composting gardens.

Biophilic elements of design include living moss walls, reclaimed oak furniture and skylights. One notable element of design is a large dining / ballroom with thousand of small circular white lights. Looking up it’s like thousands of stars shining in the night sky.

The 1 Hotel in West Hollywood ensures sustainability in both its design and operations, promoting a vision of luxury 5-star hospitality that is aligned with the health of both people and planet.

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A new interpretation of biophilic design for resorts and hotels

Patina Ubud, Indonesia (2023)

https://patinahotels.com/ourfootprint-ubud

Designed by Brazilian man of the moment Marcio Kogan of Studio MK27 Architects and scheduled for opening in 2023, Patina Ubud was built within the forest landscape of Indonesia with a design emphasis on integrating the location’s natural beauty, a collection of buildings were positioned along a sloping terrain leading into a river valley.

A long infinity pool runs parallel to the Wos River. Expansive, floor to ceiling windows help illuminate each room with the serenity of the Indonesian jungles, bringing the outside world into the guest experience.

A wellbeing designfocus means that the 102 villas feature neutral, calming hues of browns, whites, and beiges. They are accented with colors of orange and green to bring together small elements of the space. Nature-inspired color palettes are used to establish emotional connections with spaces and create a sense of peace and calm.

Wellbeing interior design promotes positive emotional comfort and restorative sleep via a combination of colours, patterns, textures and wabi-sabi finishes.

Natural light entering the rooms allows the circadian rhythm to balance and intuitive lighting allows guests to set the level of ambient lighting they desire during the latter hours of the night. Each room is also provided with a yoga mat, aromatherapy, and calming breathing technique tutorials.

Healthy and sustainable materials are used throughout the interiors while food is sourced from local suppliers, and single use plastic is avoided completely, three meaningful examples of a green procurement policy in a resort context. The resort also incorporates natural and recycled elements, enhancing its sustainability and connection to the natural world.

Taking biophilic design to new heights in a luxury resort

Joali Being resort, Maldives

https://www.joali.com/joalibeing/

The Joali Being resort is an immersive, natural wellbeing retreat designed for mental and physical relaxation offering everything from customized nutrition programs to mental rejuvenation activities and interactive learning experience to leave guests ‘transformed’ in some small way.

Surrounded by the idyllic setting of the Maldivian beaches, this biophilic resort design fosters a deep connection to the natural world, promoting environmental sustainability and guest well-being. It is to be found on the island of Bodufushi, a 40 minute plane ride the main airport.

Each one of the 68 villas has its own piece of beach and a personal butler while an earth-to-table menu promises locally and sustainably sourced, fresh foods that support small farms as a way to integrate sustainable operations practices. Every meal is curated by the resort nutritionist with health and wellness in mind.

Living spaces are equally designed around maximizing guest wellness, primarily through biophilic design principles. Harmony and balance were the main priority, eliminating negative vibrations and enhancing energy flow.

Other components of this wellness design strategy include private pools, meditative musical instruments, and wellbeing games for mental stimulation.

So-called ‘transformational spaces’ were designed for reflection, movement and personal growth thanks to fitness rooms and meditation rooms in particular.

Full immersion programs were formed to rebalance and increase the mental wellbeing of guests through tailored movements to align specific health concerns such as digestive and weight rebalance and restorative sleep.

This wellbeing real estate development is a shining example of how to create a hospitality experience geared for guest wellness.

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An urban interpretation of biophilic architecture and design

Villa M, Paris, France

https://villa-m.fr/galerie/

The vertical garden exterior and contemporary steel structure of the Villa M Hotel in Paris designed by Triptyque Architects (Paris and Brazil) in collaboration with Philippe Starck makes a bold visual statement in a city full of historic architecture.

Nature is lifted into the sky by flora filled balconies overflowing with plant life. Biophilic design is immediately apparent from the exterior of the building but continues through into the interiors as well for a comprehensive, nature-inspired design.

Wood and marble are dominant in the interiors, with vibrant, organic colors promoting a sense of calm and comfort. Spacious rooms were created with a focus on guests’ sleep quality in particular.

Amenities for play, work, and health inspired by biophilic design include a restaurant and bar with its own planted garden. The rooftop space is filled with an array of fruit trees - the perfect place to relax and enjoy the skyline.

Finally, a genuine focus on fitness is a clear point of differentiation at Villa M, in addition to its wellness design interiors, they have doubled down on fitness facilities via a heavyweight boxing champion coach Tony Yoka, 250m2 of floor space including a boxing ring and a range of dance, yoga, martial arts and fitness classes both for hotel guests and external members.

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Living walls and biophilia in hotel architecturE

Parkroyal Collection Kuala Lumpur (2022), Malaysia

https://www.panpacific.com/en/hotels-and-resorts/pr-collection-kuala-lumpur.html

The PanPacific-owned Parkroyal Collection’s first hotel outside of Singapore debuted in summer 2022 and, in a similar vein to its predecessor, the eminently biophilicParkroyal Pickering, this too is a fine example of how to integrate biophilic interiors and prominent landscaping in a hotel development.

At 527 rooms, this is no boutique-size hotel meaning any biophilic wellness design interventions had to be replicated over a generous range of rooms and suites.

Overall it’s a self-described ‘eco-chic living’ solution in the Malaysian capital but its most noticeable feature is an exterior facade of 78 sky planters filled with luscious plants. These planters showcase more than 13,000 square feet of plants and trees from the exterior. Natural lighting mimics the circadian rhythm and promotes a healthy sleep cycle, providing a more sustainable lighting option.

Guests thereby have access to garden-like escapes in the center of a bustling cityscape. With a deliberate focus on the wellbeing of their guests, the hotel houses a holistic wellness floor that showcases the St. Gregory Spa, a modern gymnasium, fitness studio, and pool.

Alongside this, there is also an outside pool surrounded by wooden pergolas, greenery, and flowering plants. Biophilic elements of design are showcased throughout the building in the shape of potted plants, stone walls, plant pattern rugs, woven wicker chairs, and a green tiled bar.

Sustainable building design and operation is a large part of the sustainability goals of the hotel. Various steps were taken toward green building sustainable design.

Kitchen menu ingredients are sustainably sourced for all on-site bars and restaurants, while bathroom amenities are sustainably presented in biodegradable packaging. A filtered drinking water system and a food waste management system complete the picture.

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Further reading:

Sustainable boutique hotel grands in the UK

Best Examples of Biophilic Design Restaurant Interiors — Wellness Design Consultants

biophilic design that brings the outside world in has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood and reduce the environmental impact of buildings and interiors. here we review some of the best examples of incorporating natural elements from the world of restaurant and cafe interior design.

Zolaism Cafe - biophilic design without the plants (!) in Aranya, Qinhuangdao, PRC

Who says biophilic design has to involve plants every time? B.L.U.E. Architecture Studio show that there are other ways to bring nature indoors with this unique interpretation of the theme in Aranya, a seaside resort community in the PRC. Instead of a forest, park or garden vibe, they turned instead to the concept of a rocky mountain with its stone and vertical faces, incorporating biophilic design elements such as natural materials, patterns, and textures inspired by nature.

The 240m2 (170 m2 interior / 47 m2 exterior) space has a glass facade on three sides interspersed with dramatic rocklike glass-fibre sculptures that resemble huge boulders holding up the cafe’s flat roof. Concealed inside are the structural beams doing the real work but the visual effect is dramatic nonetheless.

Their scale also serves to create a degree of added privacy, effectively blocking out the view to the world outside in some areas to create a cocoon-like effect.

https://www.b-l-u-e.net/index.php/index/project/index/cid/1/id/70.html?lang=en

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Organic biophilic design restaurant example - Mother BBK, Bangkok, Thailand

The petite, split-level restaurant Mother BBK in Bangkok, Thailand takes inspiration from Mother Nature’s four elements to craft a distinct interpretation of biophilic designrestaurant interiors, creating an immersive dining space courtesy of local design agency Taste Space. They incorporate biophilic design by using natural materials and a neutral palette to create a comfortable and relaxing environment.

A strong focus on natural materials such as wood, leather and stone combined with a neutral palette of browns, taupes, greens and white make this an inherently elemental space.

Interventions in the glass and clay tile roof result in a dappled shadow effect on diners below, while a petrified tree root is suspended above the entrance area providing more tangible connections with biophilic design architecture.

Behind the bar sits an art piece representing the four elements each shining with the contrast of different earthy tones. This acts as the story behind the venue as it represents the origin of the Earth, as told through the lens of biophilic interior design.

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organic interior design restaurant example - Noema, Mykonos, Greece

With the idyllic landscape of Mykonos as its background, Noema represents a contemporary Greek aesthetic that is heavily influenced by organic modernism, a.k.a biophilic design.

This restaurant uses its space to create a welcoming, wabi-sabi indoor environment inspired by Greek culture’s preference for natural materials with a patina of age and craft, seamlessly integrating the natural environment to enhance the dining experience.

A colour palette of warm browns, greys, greens and whites fill the space alongside natural fabrics, patterns and textures used in its build.

Diners are presented with stone plates on rustic wooden tables to reinforce a connection back to nature that is at the heart of this decidedly upmarket venue in one of Europe’s summer hotspots.

Cool summer breezes are encouraged to flow through the open-air layout bringing with them a hint of local flora and the sea. Just a few minutes in this natural environment can reduce stress and boost mood.

Lush plants fill the corners of the room ensuring a vibrant balance of darker hues and green tones.

Finally the culinary senses are brought back to basics as well with a menu cooked and prepared in traditional, unfussy style.

Raw materials collected from nature are pickled, fermented, cured and sun dried. Fish is cured and brined with salt from the Aegean Sea. Meats are cooked by open fire or within a clay pot - Noema is all about adding layer upon layer of detail to the key concept.

Just like the restaurant’s biophilic interiors, the kitchen’s ingredients are all natural and unaltered, cleverly aligning the senses behind one consistent message.

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Biophilic design restaurant example - Living Bakkali, Valencia, Spain

Located in Valencia, Spain, Living Bakkali falls into a distinct niche of the biophilic design scene as it avoids the possible cliche of green plants in favor of a Middle-Eastern palette of desert-inspired oranges, pinks whites and tans.

For those who know what to look for, biophilic elements of design fill the space from top to bottom. Curvilinear furniture finished to terracotta colour fabrics give the room a sumptuous, earthy hue while wall cut-outs (inspired by Middle-Eastern architecture) encourage the flow of air around the restaurant and enhance site-lines between the tables.

Interspersed among the tables and seating lie displays of dried grasses and flowers that cast natural shadows upon the tables and floors. These silhouettes on the draping curtains create yet another subtle detail of biophilic design. In turn, these visually connect with the seagrass, textured fabric and fur lined seating cushions.

Adobe, a building material made from clay and organic materials, was dominant in the interior architecture concept. It was created completely by hand, reflecting the manual human labor that goes into building traditional Arabic homes in the desert.

Adobe also fits neatly into the concept of healthy building materials and sustainable buildings interiors. As ever, inspiration from traditional cultures always helps to shine light on contemporary habits, one of which is deploying unhealthy, toxic materials in our interior spaces during the past 100 years in particular.

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Biophilic design cafe example - Tanatap Ring Garden Coffee shop, Jakarta, Indonesia

Architects in Indonesia are continuing to push the boundaries between natural design and interior spaces.

This is perfectly displayed by the Tanatap Ring Garden Coffee shop located in Jakarta, Indonesia.

A coffee shop built in 2021, its ring shape holds what can only be described as a mini jungle in its interior.

The ring is a prototype of a dynamic platform that slowly spins, rises, and falls, with the different levels of the structure creating a walkable roofscape filled with plants.

Clients of the cafe can wander around the changing space, as it rotates the multi-level garden provides sharp contrasts between scale, color, density of nature, and sunlight.

Wherever you look, you are surrounded by the natural world. The sustainable interior design of Jakarta’s Ring Garden Coffee have set out a bold vision of sustainably designed outdoor tropical spaces for others to follow.

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Biophilic design restaurant example - Cuartel del Mar , Spain

Located in Chiclana De La Frontera, Spain, El Cuartel del Mar blends falls seamlessly into the landscape from a bird’s eye view.

With a roof of native gravel and plants, the natural ecosystem of this restaurant’s environment is cleverly integrated into the aesthetics of the space, representing yet another subtle variation on the organic biophilic design aesthetic.

A palette of light, tonal colors reflects the seaside location while the exterior pergolas provide protection from the intense Spanish sun.

Moving to its organic interior design, the natural visuals of the surrounding environment are carefully hinted at through a color pallet of whites, tans, and browns with a touch of green.

Throughout the interior design, natural materials and Spanish craft products are favored, boosting its sustainability credentials while helping local communities.

The interior and exterior of the building is covered in a light coloured lime mortar. Lime, a healthy building material, is highly breathable and allows water particles to pass through it preventing the build-up of moisture. This gives the venue’s clients a comfortable thermal environment indoors.

Finally, a large rooftop courtyard is available for enjoying the sunshine and soak in the warming rays of Vitamin D, maximizing natural light exposure.

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silo, london, uk - zero waste restaurant with sustainable interiors

SILO in London’s Hackney neighborhood advocates for what they describe as a more ‘primitive pre-industrial’ food system. A completely Zero Waste restaurant was inevitably going to present an interesting brief for a sustainable interior designer to respond to, showcasing the relevance of biophilic design in both residential and commercial design.

We can find upcycled (rather than recycled) furniture and fittings as well as a plethora of natural, healthy and sustainable materials.

From the mycelium lampshades to crockery made of crushed wine bottles, this is a sustainable restaurant that has gone the extra mile to deliver on its promise, arguably setting a new benchmark in terms of sustainable interiors along the way.

Cork flooring tiles provide a warm, visually textured solution while a recycled plastic bar and table tops, sustainably sourced ash wood and white-washed brick walls complete the sustainable interiors.

Biophilic Architects: Architecture Studios for Biophilic Design — Biofilico Wellness Interiors

our overview of the leading architecture studios for biophilic architecture that bring the outside world in, combining sustainability and wellbeing in real estate.

• Batlleiroig, Spain

• Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), Denmark

• CookFox, USA

• GG Loop, NL

• Heatherwick Studio, UK

• K Studio, Greece

• Kengo Kuma & Associates, Japan

• M Moser, China

• Nomadic Resorts, SA & NL

• Stefano Boeri Architetti, Italy

• United Network Studio, Netherlands

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Oficinas Lumen, Barcelona

Founded in 1981 by Enric Batlle and Joan Roig, the Barcelona-based architecture studio Batlleiroig is all about tackling the climate emergency through a synergistic fusion of city and nature in the built environment.

The practice combines urban planning, landscaping and architecture, with recent projects showing a clear tendency towards biophilic design, sustainable real estate and occupantwellbeing in particular, often through the lens of greater contact with nature.

With over 140 staff members, this is one of the most influential architecture studios in Barcelona, and indeed Spain. They caught our attention for their ambitious plans for the LaMercedes urban regeneration development by Conren Tramway as well as the Net Zero Emissions Entegra office building, both in our home city of Barcelona.

Going beyond merely ‘sustainable’, Batlleiroig design buildings and indeed precincts that incorporate natural elements and have a deep respect for the advantages of using nature in real estate, be that through materials, plants, aesthetics or environmental protection measures. They emphasize the use of natural materials like wood, bamboo, and stone, all of which adds up to a lightness of touch and an undeniable ‘joie de vivre’ in many of their projects.

https://www.batlleiroig.com

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Bjarke Ingels Group, Denmark - starchitects and biophilic designers

BIG hardly need any introduction nowadays thanks to their attention-grabbing, headline-worthy approach to architecture. Their recent completion in Singapore, the 280m tall biophilic CapitaSpring tower (see image above) that proposes a new type of vertical urbanism, is just one of countless such examples.

The studio completed its first hotel project in September 2022, the Hôtel des Horlogers for Audemars Piguet in the Swiss Vallée de Joux, the design here blurs the boundaries between the surrounding landscape and the contours of the building, creating spaces that seamlessly integrate the indoors and outdoors, a nod to biophilic architecture if ever there was one.

Their 49,000m2 Sluishuis project outskirts of Amsterdam, has been billed as a ‘floating’ neighborhood with public roofscapes and riverwalks that offers a residential vision of life over water, a form of ‘blue nature’ (as opposed to ‘green nature’ in forests and parks)

https://big.dk/#projects

CookFox StJohn’s Terminal, Google building

CookFox, USA - nature inspired architecture

CookFox are a giant in the world of “integrated, environmentally responsive architecture” as they call it. They are also world-class biophilic architects, leading the way in integrating biophilia into residences and workplaces.

From their base in New York they leverage two decades of experience and a 130+ strong workforce to deliver projects that aim to “elevate the human condition and urban environment through beautiful, innovative, and sustainable design”.

Calling cards include the 2.2 million sq ft One Bryant Park tower, the first skyscraper in the world to achieve platinum LEED certification, and the forthcoming 1.3 million sq ft Google office tower in Manhattan called the St. John’s Tower.

As a studio, they have also made a name for themselves designing offices for healthy building powerhouses such as the International WELL Building Institute headquarters and Skanska headquarters, both in New York.

https://cookfox.com/

GG Loop, Netherlands - creative biophilic designers

The architectural and design firm, GG-loop, is a biophilic design inspired creative team in the Netherlands. The team of about 20 has been together since the beginning of the practice in 2014 and rally around the cause of architecture deepening the connection between people and nature through biophilic design.

Recent large-scale projects include Echinoidea, a pavilion in Milan, and Freebooter, a residential development in Amsterdam.

The studio's vision is to raise awareness on the importance of biophilic architecture to both professionals and the general public to fight the current climate condition.

https://gg-loop.com/

Heatherwick Studio, UK - biophilic design experts in London

Thomas Heatherwick’s eponymous studio is an architectural design practice and workshop in London, UK.

Their key concepts are improving lives through the built environment, especially through slow living and a connection with nature in urban environments thanks to biophilic design.

The team of over 200 have a strong stance on sustainability, the integration of nature, and a sprinkle of magic dust aimed at sparking a reaction of delight.

Recent large scale projects include 1000 Trees in Shanghai, China and the Eden in Singapore as well as collaborations with Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) on the Google Campus in London.

https://www.heatherwick.com/

K Studio, Greece - designers working with biophilia

Based in Central Athens, the K Studio is a practice of 60+ designers that has evolved a unique, nature-infused aesthetic that fits neatly into the category of biophilic design, without being defined or limited by it in any way.

From the bohemian chic of Scorpios on Mykonos island (see pic above) to more minimalist villas, and the Casa Cook resort properties around Greece, their range is impressive for a modestly sized studio.

Greek culture and a sense of place remain a constant in their architectural and design output, meaning they dial up materiality, keeping things pure and elemental whenever possible, yet always with a touch of nature.

Recent large-scale projects include the Marina Kaplankaya and the refurbishment of the Mykonos airport, suggesting they are on their way to becoming one of the country’s leading design studios with a bright future ahead.

https://www.k-studio.gr/projects/

Kengo Kuma architects, Japan - one of the world’s leading biophilic architects

Kengo Kuma & Architects (KKAA) have offices in Tokyo, Beijing, Shanghai and Paris. With over 170 staff and over 360 projects completed, today they are one of the most significant modern architects not just in Japan but on the global design stage.

The team explores the relationship between buildings, nature, humans and technology, and incorporates natural elements into their designs. This approach, combined with a strong emotional component and undeniable influences from Japan, aims to provoke a serene, harmonious state of mind in occupants and visitors.

Projects are currently underway in a plethora of different countries covering use categories as diverse as museums, restaurants, offices, education, exhibitions, residential, factories and hospitals. A few highlights include the biophilic mixed-use development Welcome Milano in Milan, Italy (shown above).

https://kkaa.co.jp/en/selected-projects/

M Moser & Associates, China - biophilic office design experts

M Moser & Associates is a global firm with over 1000 employees, they are workplace design specialists and maintain a number of ‘Living Labs’ where they experiment with new design solutions before introducing them into their projects for clients.

The team have a strong stance on sustainability, meaning they combine biophilic design in their architecture and interiors as a way to promote occupant wellbeing whilst also keeping one eye on reducing their impact in every way possible.

Recent projects of reference include Shui On WorkX, a biophilic office space in Shanghai, the Dyson Global HQ in Singapore, Nestle offices in Jakarta and the Diageo offices in Shanghai.

https://www.mmoser.com/about/

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Nomadic Resorts, eco architects in South Africa, mauritius and Netherlands

Nomadic Resorts defy most conventions and definitions. They span across a range of disciplines, from masterplanning of entire nature-inspired resorts, to architectural design with biophilic influences, botanical landscape design and interiors.

Via offices in the Netherlands, South Africa and Mauritius they deliver projects with a sustainable edge, each inspired by their location, landscape and natural context.

Their expertise covers bamboo construction as well as treetop living, tented camps and avant-garde resort concepts that push the boundaries of how far sustainable resorts can push the concept of environmentally friendly hospitality. They are committed to sustainable development and fulfilling the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals.

By incorporating concepts such as low carbon engineering, regenerative landscaping and permaculture, they bridge the worlds of eco tourism, green building sustainable design. Their client list includes giants such as Six Senses Resorts and Spas; Soneva Group; Banyan Tree and &Beyond.

https://nomadicresorts.com/

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Stefano Boeri Architetti - designers of the bosco verticale vertical forest

Defining this architecture studio as the designers behind the Bosco Vertical vertical forest building in Milan, Italy is to put this multi-faceted team in a box that they outgrew many moons ago. In fact they are an international operation with offices in Milan, Shanghai and Tirana (Albania) from where they deliver research and practice in urbaism and architecture.

With over 20 years of experience, the infamous tower did at least help solidify their reputation as leading thinkers on urban sustainability and biodiversity, as well as social housing, urban development and regeneration projects.

Their multi-disciplinary approach engages with landscape architects, engineers, social scientists and agronomists showing that biophilic design can and should engage a wide variety of experts in order to succeed at scale in urban regeneration for example.

Present in the PRC since 2014 their office in Shanghai has delivered projects such as the renovation of the former Shanghai Stock Exchange and with the Nanjing Vertical Forest - the first Vertical Forest in China - current in construction.

Their Tirana office meanwhile is responsible for developing the General Local Plan and the strategic vision of the city, known as “Tirana 2030”.

Other assignments include the masterplan of Doha’s New Port and the development of the “triangle of Maspero”, a complex of towers and public facilities along the Nile waterfront, in downtown Cairo.

https://www.stefanoboeriarchitetti.net/

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UNStudio - architects and urbanists big on sustainability

With offices in Amsterdam, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Frankfurt, Dubai and Melbourne totaling over 300 employees, UNStudio is now a full-service architecture and design powerhouse.

Founded in 1988 by Ben van Berkel and Caroline Bos, they now deliver architecture, interior architecture, product design, urban development and infrastructural projects around the world.

UNStudio see themselves as having to anticipate the future, in particular in terms of sustainability and their environmental impact. They consider social and ecological sustainability upfront while aiming for what they call ‘attainable design’ - projects that are both financially and socially feasible. Their commitment to sustainable architecture is evident in their projects, which incorporate innovative design features and sustainable practices.

Major projects of note include the Erasmus Bridge, Arnhem Central Station, the Mercedes-Benz Museum, the Doha Metro Network, Raffles City Hangzhou and the Hanwha HQ Remodelling.

https://www.unstudio.com/

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Benefits of Biophilic Design on Cognitive Performance in the workplace

HERO natural foods, Swiss headquarters - biophilic design by Biofilico

Firstly, what is biophilic design anyway?

Biophilic design is a way to integrate nature into the built environment, at building and interiors level. By combining elements of both sustainability and wellbeing, biophilic design is aligned with People and Planet, with green building standards as well as healthy building standards.

By bringing the outside world in, we can create spaces that are aligned with our evolutionary past, while respecting and protecting the environment and promoting human health and happiness.

Biophilic design in offices

Utilizing biophilic design in office and working environments can have tangible benefits on the mental wellbeing of all personnel by increasing productivity, creativity and overall morale. The basic idea of biophilic design centers around the physical, emotional, and cognitive wellbeing benefits of multi-sensory connections with nature.

The main idea behind bringing biophilic design into an indoor environment, (whether it be work or residential) is applying architectural and interior concepts that recall or reflect the natural world. This design strategy brings us in touch with human biology and our deep connection to nature that is often neglected in dense urban contexts today.

leveraging The elements in biophilic design - light

One possible interpretation of this concept when designing a biophilic design space comes from harnessing the four elements: fire, earth, air and water. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6491965/#B69 )

The idea of using fire can be seen through UV light and heat therapy. The right amount of lighting can help align the body’s circadian rhythm by mediating shifts in light exposure that modify duration of nocturnal melatonin production (the hormone that promotes sleep).

This is important because by pushing melatonin production to sleeping hours, people are more awake and energized throughout the day. Light exposure also has important implications for serotonin production: the happy hormone.

Activation of serotonergic neurons helps regulate brain development and function. Irregularities in these neurons are associated with many psychiatric disorders (such as depression and anxiety) that are often seen developing amongst individuals working typical 9-5 jobs. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6405415/ )

A general increase in alertness can be attributed to a light source that mimics the sun because of the hormonal production it promotes in the brain so for environments where performance and efficiency are required, it would be of use to have lighting that most resembles nature and can support these biological processes. 

leveraging The elements in biophilic design - plants & earth

The next element, earth, really relies on innate biological processes and connecting us to nature. Getting people away from urbanized workspaces by including plants, natural lighting and other natural elements has been proven to increase positive feelings, manage heart rate and control stress.

Forest bathing is a practice of “taking in the forest” to inspire a reconnection to the earth (see our article on this subject here). Practices like forest bathing that involve multi-sensory immersion in deep nature have been shown to significantly increase scores of positive feelings while significantly decreasing scores of negative feelings after stimuli compared with the urban stimuli. (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0033350610003203 ).

Also, heart rate analysis indicated that the forest environment significantly increased parasympathetic (restores body’s sense of calm) nervous activity and significantly suppressed sympathetic (activates fight or flight) activity of participants compared with the urban environment.

Alongside this decrease of nervous energy throughout the body there is an important decrease in cortisol levels. Cortisol is a hormone that plays an important role in; helping respond to stress, fighting infection, regulating blood sugar, maintaining blood pressure, regulating metabolism.

Elevated cortisol levels are associated with less perceived control which means, more difficulty paying attention to the task at hand. Hypothesized disturbance in circadian rhythm (relating to cortisol production) needs further investigation but is linked to a change. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8882096/ ). 

Air goes along with the idea of using plants in a working environment because of the clean air benefits they provide. The importance of this element relies on a lack of pollution in the surrounding environment (https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13181-011-0203-1 ).

Emerging preclinical evidence suggests that air pollution may induce oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, microglial activation, and cerebrovascular dysfunction, while potentially altering the blood–brain barrier.

Oxidative stress (https://www.healthline.com/health/oxidative-stress#:~:text=Oxidative%20stress%20is%20an%20imbalance,easily%20react%20with%20other%20molecules. ) is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants that can have a chain reaction in the body. This can cause large chemical reactions in your body that can either be beneficial of harmful.

Neuroinflammation refers to the process of the brain’s immune system response. This is important to keep in check because too much inflammation, like among most things, means brain disease.

Microglia are the macrophages of the central nervous system that play a keep role in brain development so microglial activation are important in coordinating “a plan of attack” when disease is sensed in the brain. But if this are activated when not needed, they can potentially cause more harm than good. 

Cerebrovascular dysfunction just refers to insufficiencies of blood supply to the brain that result in a multitude of issues. The importance of having fresh, clean air helps to prevent from many diseases and can be utilized in a working environment with the inclusion of plants or air filters or things alike. 

leveraging The elements in biophilic design - water

The last element, water, is one that can prove a little more difficult to incorporate into an everyday workspace. The main therapies involving water are things like hydrotherapy and balneotherapy. Hydrotherapy is just using water in any form as a form of noninvasive treatment while balneotherapy is the practice of bathing in minerals and other additives and is used more particularly in spas and pools for arthritis support.

Hydrotherapy reduces pain/stress through easing muscle tension with water support and also promoting the release of endorphins. (https://connecthealth.org.au/enews/why-water-works-4-hydrotherapy-health-benefits/#:~:text=Warm%20water%20hydrotherapy%20has%20been,to%20further%20reduce%20muscle%20soreness ) Endorphins are the hormones released when your body feels pain or stress.

They act as messengers from the brain to the rest of the body to let it know something isn’t right and to reduce pain, relieve stress therefore, improving mood. Hydrotherapy also helps boost immunity by increasing circulation of white blood cells that allows lymph (immune system fluid that helps get rid of waste) to better work and move around body.

While not all office spaces are equipped to have saunas or pools clearly(!), having water accessible in an office yields similar results. (https://solaramentalhealth.com/can-drinking-enough-water-help-my-depression-and-anxiety/#:~:text=Water%20has%20been%20shown%20to,can%20create%20feelings%20of%20relaxation. )

Not only is it important to provide employees with a drinkable water source for hydration, it may also be of use to implement water features within the interior design of a workplace too. (https://www.workdesign.com/2012/12/pros-and-cons-of-workplace-water-features/ )

The steady movement of a water feature provides for a natural and calming sound source as well as a soothing visual that keeps people in tune with nature. The flow of water can also help to mask the noise of a busy office environment while providing visual respite from screens.

Something such as a water fountain or a water cooler often becomes a place of interaction among workers and can increase personal relationships through the act of gathering. Something important to keep in mind, however, is that water features could be distracting for some because of the same beneficial reasons laid out above: too noisy, easy to stare at for hours or prompting people to gather and chat rather than work.

The benefits of water in an office space go far passed the obvious necessities and can spark an important conversation about how to incorporate this element to improve employee performance.

One of the most important concepts when creating an optimal working environment is connecting back to nature. An easy way to do this can be through using techniques outlined by the four elements: fire, earth, air and water.

Further reading:

• Benefits of healthy coworking offices