What is Biophilic Design? How to Apply Biophilia in Architecture?

Through a considerable part of evolution, we lived amidst nature - be it the lushness of the forests, the fertile river basins, or the unpardoning deserts or snow. Thus, despite 90% of our lives spent indoors now, humans have an innate connection and attraction to nature.

As a result, amidst the concrete jungle, we desire to own homes that seek to seamlessly integrate nature and natural elements into our living spaces. Most people value homes with a beautiful natural view and are willing to pay a higher price for them.

This biophilia or love for nature led to architects looking to - directly and indirectly - incorporate elements of nature into their designs. This is known as the biophilic design of architecture.

Let us understand the biophilic meaning and biophilic design elements in detail.

What is Biophilic Design?

Biophilic architecture works to create a harmonic connection between natural elements and modern architecture. To satisfy its residents' innate connection to nature, the biophilic design seeks to create building spaces offering direct views of or access to nature via architectural features or building materials that either respect the natural ecosystem or mimic it in the living spaces.

Application of Biophilic Design in Modern Architecture

Biophilic design elements in architecture are the incorporation of natural experiences into living settings - for instance, using water, plants, ventilation, light, etc., to create a direct interaction with the natural elements.

• Plants or greenery

  In building spaces, greenery can be incorporated through gardens, green spaces, retaining trees when developing the space, etc. For instance, most residential complexes have gardens, green jogging/walking tracks, etc. Others also create a dedicated green space with lots of trees, plants, and grass.

• Natural views

  In metropolitan cities like Mumbai, with dwindling green, open spaces, a residential or office space that offers stunning views of the greenery or the beautiful Arabian Sea is highly coveted and, as a result, priced higher.

• Water

  Building a fountain, small water body, or an artificial lake within the premises of the building space is one way of ensuring a water-based biophilic design concept. Alternatively, real estate developers can opt for a location that offers direct views of a natural water body, such as a lake, river, or waterfall.

• Airflow and ventilation

  For a generation of humans used to air-conditioned spaces, the value of clean and fresh airflow cannot be overstated. Biophilic architecture designs that allow for cross-ventilation and a good flow of air create a natural ambiance.

• Sounds and smells

  Having a natural ecosystem in building spaces attracts various types of birds whose chirps can create a peaceful auditory experience. Similarly, the sounds of a water body lead to an ambient setting. Trees also bring petrichor in the rainy season or after a round of watering. Certain flowering plants can set up a wonderful olfactory experience.

Luxury Residences with Biophilic Architecture at Piramal Vaikunth

If you are looking for biophilic architecture in the central suburbs of Mumbai, then Piramal Vaikunth is the address for you. Spread over ~32 acres of premium-use mixed development and planned with thoughtfully designed layouts, Piramal Vaikunth is truly the abode of nature’s beauty! Get in touch with us today to book a visit.

FAQs

How to create a biophilic interior design?

• Open the windows and let the light and air in.
• Buy some indoor plants.
• Hang some photos of nature.
• Create an olfactory and auditory experience with nature sounds and smells.
• Step outside regularly and enjoy some real nature.