Biophilic Design

Written by

Ahlia McKenzie

, VidaSpace®

08 June 2023

 • 

2 min read

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The term ‘biophilia’ directly translates to ‘the love of living things’ in ancient Greek. The notion of biophilia is that humans have an inherent need to connect with nature; we have an innate attraction to the natural world and other forms of life, and when our connection to it diminishes, our physical and mental wellbeing deteriorates.

Biophilic design is a concept that is increasingly being utilised in interior design and architecture. Society is progressively recognising the importance of bringing natural elements inside, realising that tangible benefits can be achieved by transforming indoor spaces to resemble the outdoor world.

Recent studies have revealed that we spend the vast majority of our time indoors – up to 90%. Therefore, the indoor spaces that we frequent, the materials used, and the quality of air plays an immense role in our general health.

Traditionally outdoor elements such as natural light, views of nature, plants, flowing water, and organic materials such as wool and wood can be used in the built environment to boost occupant wellbeing through the connection to nature.

The influence of wooden interior finishes has been shown to have significant health benefits; people psychologically find the natural visual appearance of timber calming which can result in reduced blood pressure, lowered stress levels and improved emotional states. Wood products can also improve indoor air quality by moderating humidity levels.

For example, a recent study concluded that people in workplaces with less that 20% natural wood surfaces were up to 30% less satisfied with their working life, compared to those with a higher proportion of wood finishes in their office.

In another study, workers in offices with wooden interiors conveyed feelings of innovation, energy, and comfort. A Japanese study found that exposure to wood panels significantly decreases blood pressure while, by contrast, exposure to steel panels makes it rise.

At VidaSpace, we are passionate about the real benefits that can be achieved by incorporating biophilic design. By 2021, we had ceased all supply of imitation products, moving forward to only work with real wood finishes.

Our mission is to bring our clients closer to nature, and we encourage and promote the use of biophilic design in all forms to enhance the mental and physical wellbeing of everyone who enjoys the spaces created by our talented clients.

At ArchiPro we recognise and acknowledge the existing, original and ancient connection Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have to the lands and waterways across the Australian continent. We pay our respects to the elders past and present. We commit to working together to build a prosperous and inclusive Australia.