Created: 4th February, 2022
As more people return to offices, schools, healthcare environments and public spaces, organisations face an important challenge: how can buildings better support their users’ physical health, mental wellbeing and productivity?
One increasingly popular solution is biophilic design. By strengthening the connection between people and nature, biophilic design helps create environments that feel healthier, more comfortable and more engaging. From workplaces and educational settings to hospitals and community spaces, biophilic design is transforming how buildings are planned, designed and experienced – and we’re huge advocates of how it can transform a space, as evidenced by the plant-heavy design of our very own Barker offices.
Biophilic design is an approach to architecture and interior design that seeks to reconnect people with the natural world. It incorporates natural elements, materials, patterns and experiences into the built environment to improve wellbeing and create more positive spaces.
At its core, biophilic design recognises that humans have an innate connection to nature. However, modern lifestyles often mean spending the majority of our time indoors, surrounded by artificial environments that can leave us feeling disconnected from the natural world.
“Human beings need nature in their everyday environments, but we often spend our lives in spaces that are predominantly man-made and alienate us from the natural world. Biophilic design can have a demonstrable impact on our mental and physical wellbeing, improving our lives and community in countless ways.”
The relationship between the built environment and human health has never been more significant. Stress, anxiety and lifestyle-related health conditions continue to impact individuals, workplaces and communities across the UK.
Biophilic design helps address these challenges by creating spaces that support:
Research has consistently demonstrated that access to natural light, planting, outdoor views and green spaces can positively influence both physical and psychological wellbeing. By integrating these elements into everyday environments, organisations can create buildings that actively contribute to healthier lifestyles.
Effective biophilic design extends far beyond simply adding a few plants to a room. It involves carefully considering how people interact with a space and introducing nature in meaningful ways.
One of the most recognisable features of biophilic design is the use of planting throughout a building. Green walls, indoor planting schemes, moss installations and living features can all help create a stronger connection with nature.
Outdoor spaces such as roof gardens, courtyards and landscaped terraces provide additional opportunities for occupants to access natural environments during the day. These spaces can become valuable areas for relaxation, collaboration and respite from busy indoor environments.
Biophilic interiors often incorporate materials such as timber, stone, cork and natural fabrics. These materials introduce warmth, texture and visual interest while creating a more authentic connection to the natural world.
Natural colours, organic forms and patterns inspired by nature can further enhance the user experience and contribute to a calmer, more welcoming environment.
Visual and physical access to nature is a fundamental component of biophilic design. Large windows, carefully positioned viewpoints and external landscape features can strengthen connections to the surrounding environment.
Even in urban locations, thoughtful design can maximise access to green spaces and natural views, helping occupants feel more connected to nature throughout the day.
Natural light is one of the most powerful elements of biophilic design. Daylight not only improves the visual quality of a space but also helps regulate our circadian rhythms, which influence sleep patterns, energy levels and overall wellbeing.
Lighting systems inspired by biophilic design principles can adjust colour temperature and brightness throughout the day, more closely reflecting natural daylight cycles. This approach can support alertness during working hours while helping individuals maintain healthier sleep patterns.
By maximising daylight and reducing reliance on artificial lighting, organisations can also lower energy consumption and improve environmental performance.
Poor air quality remains a significant challenge in many buildings and urban areas. Biophilic design can help improve indoor environmental quality through strategic planting and natural ventilation strategies.
Plants can contribute to healthier internal environments by increasing oxygen levels and enhancing occupants’ perception of air quality. In outdoor spaces, trees and vegetation can help create more attractive streetscapes while supporting wider environmental objectives.
Biophilic design can also engage additional senses through the introduction of natural fragrances, textures and sounds, creating more immersive and restorative environments.
While biophilic design is often associated with health and wellbeing, it also aligns closely with broader sustainability goals.
Many biophilic design principles complement sustainable architecture by encouraging:
By combining sustainable design strategies with biophilic principles, organisations can create buildings that deliver environmental, social and economic benefits simultaneously.
As organisations rethink how their workplaces support employee wellbeing, biophilic design in office fit outs is proving to be extremely popular.
Integrating natural elements such as planting, natural daylight, organic materials and views of green space can help create healthier, more engaging office environments. Research has linked biophilic design to reduced stress levels, improved concentration, enhanced creativity and higher employee satisfaction, making it a valuable tool for attracting and retaining talent. As hybrid working continues to evolve, workplaces that prioritise wellbeing and connection to nature can help employees feel more comfortable, productive and motivated when they come into the office. Learn more on how green offices are enhancing staff wellbeing.
At Barker, we understand that successful buildings must support both people and the environment. Our multidisciplinary team works with clients to embed sustainability, wellbeing and long-term value into every stage of the design process.
Whether incorporating green infrastructure, improving access to outdoor spaces, enhancing workplace wellbeing or delivering broader sustainability strategies, we help create environments that place people at the centre of design.
As organisations increasingly seek healthier, more productive and sustainable spaces, biophilic design is becoming a vital consideration for future developments. By integrating nature into the built environment, we can create places where people feel better, work better and thrive.
