biophilic design guide

what is biophilic design?

Biophilic design is a bridge between design, nature and wellbeing. Translating the essence of nature into design solutions, biophilic design creates spaces that actively support health and wellbeing while restoring a balanced relationship between people and the natural world.

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biophilic design resources

biophilic design introduction

What follows is an overview of Biophilic Moodboards, a column from anooi blog that explores the main principles of biophilic design one moodboard at a time…
(based upon the 14 patterns framework conceptualized by Terrapin Bright Green).

click on each pattern below to read a dedicated article from the blog, or download the free publication Biophilic Design Introduction

NATURE IN THE SPACE

1. visual connection with nature
   view of natural elements from within a space.

2. non-visual connection with nature
   interactions with nature through other senses: sound, touch, smell and taste.

3. non-rhythmic sensory stimuli
   unpredictable and non-repetitive movements recalling those happening in nature (birds chirping, leaves moving in a breeze…)

4. thermal and airflow variability
   variability in air temperature and flow, changes in relative humidity and varying surface temperatures.

5. presence of water
   use of water and water-mimicking solutions as design features.

6. dynamic and diffuse light
   varying lighting intensities and light changes over time evoking the natural cycle of day and night.

7. connection with natural systems
   awareness of seasonal and temporal changes stimulated by design solutions.

NATURAL ANALOGUES

8. biomorphic forms and patterns
   nature-inspired textures, shapes and patterns.

9. material connection with nature
   natural materials and elements that reflect the local environment in terms of ecology or geology.

10. complexity and order
    rich sensory features recalling natural spatial hierarchies (otherwise called fractal patterns).

NATURE OF THE SPACE

11. prospect
    uninterrupted views over a distance creating feelings of calm and safety.

12. refuge
    sense of protection from movements and activities happening in the surroundings.

13. mystery
    partially obscured views stimulating curiosity about the unknown.

14. risk/peril
    balanced combination of a perceived sense of risk and the rational knowledge of safety.

find more in-depth biophilic design resources on anooi shop