RESEARCH

Biophilic Design in Architecture and its Contributions to Health, Well-Being, and Sustainability: A Critical Review

The review finds that biophilic design significantly enhances health, well-being, and sustainability by integrating natural elements into architecture. It concludes that this approach can address global environmental challenges while aligning with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals but requires further refinement and research for broader implementation.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: General Population

Setting or Context: Schools/Educational Settings, Hospitals/Clinics, Residential Programs, Workplace Environments, Healthcare Centre

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health, Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Improved Stress Management, Improved Cognitive Function

Allied Profession Intersections: Landscape Design

Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies, Qualitative Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Metrics for Mental Health, Metrics for Physical Health, Program Effectiveness

Access: Free

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Summary

This review examines the concept of biophilic design in architecture, which integrates natural elements into buildings to enhance health, well-being, and sustainability. The study traces the origins of biophilic design, rooted in humanity’s innate connection to nature, and explores how it has evolved as a framework for sustainable architecture. It identifies key strategies such as incorporating plants, natural light, water features, and organic forms into buildings to improve mental health, productivity, and environmental performance. The review also highlights the potential of biophilic design to address global challenges like climate change and biodiversity loss while supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The authors emphasize that biophilic design is more than just adding greenery to buildings; it encompasses sensory, metaphorical, and cultural connections to nature. While the approach shows promise in improving building performance and user well-being, challenges remain, such as balancing aesthetic goals with practical considerations like maintenance and cost. The paper concludes by proposing a refined framework for biophilic design and calling for further research to address knowledge gaps, especially regarding its long-term impacts on sustainability.

Link

Zhong, W., Schröder, T., & Bekkering, J. (2022). Biophilic design in architecture and its contributions to health, well-being, and sustainability: A critical review. Frontiers of Architectural Research, 11(1), 114-141.

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