What every residential architect should know about biophilic design

Biophilic design is an increasingly popular trend in residential architecture, emphasising the emotional and psychological well-being of residents through the integration of natural elements and the maximisation of natural light and ventilation. This is a broad direction that offers many opportunities for architects.

This approach is being implemented not only in suburban areas, but also in major cities such as London: rooftop gardens are appearing atop skyscrapers, panoramic windows are becoming more common in private homes, and features such as indoor fountains, natural sounds, and subtle scents are helping to create a multisensory experience for urban dwellers. Let’s explore the key principles that make biophilic design so impactful.

Emphasis on emotional wellbeing

Residential architects who decide to implement the biophilic design in their projects must, first of all, understand its meaning. The aim is to reconnect humans with nature. This in turn creates the following positive effects:

• Overall stress reduction and a calming effect. Natural textures, shades of green, and the sounds and scents of forests and flowers all contribute to this sense of tranquility. Over time, these elements have been shown to improve mental health + enhance concentration + reduce anxiety + boost productivity. Numerous psychological studies confirm this;
• The overall feeling of comfort. Housing with a biophilic design is perceived as safer and cosier;
• Improved physical health. Natural light has a positive impact on well-being and helps regulate healthy sleep patterns. Meanwhile, living plants contribute to better air quality by increasing oxygen levels, which in turn supports overall health and enhances a sense of well-being;

Formation of a responsible attitude towards the environment. Solar panels, reuse of materials, preservation of plant diversity - all these are important steps that influence the environment and create the right outlook.

Study of norms and standards

There are no specific regulations or laws in the UK that govern biophilic design directly, but many existing standards and guidelines address aspects of it indirectly. So before implementing this approach in their projects, architects should look at the following:

• Building Regulations regarding lighting (Part L, Part B), thermal insulation and ventilation (Part F, Part L), structural safety and stability (Part A, B, K, M);
• Planning Permission, as, for example, green roofs often require permission from the local planning authority;
• Health and Safety Regulations, as any plants, natural materials must be 100% safe for residents. For example, architects should avoid flowers that may cause allergies or would be dangerous for pets;
• Local Development Plans, which outline effective green development strategies.

Integration natural elements

One of the key steps in biophilic design is the incorporation of potted plants, vertical gardens, and green courtyards into interior spaces. When selecting plants, it’s important to consider environmental conditions (lighting levels/plan for watering and protection systems) and ensure that all plant species are safe and pose no health risks to residents. Water is another popular natural element that can be introduced through indoor fountains, patio ponds, or visual access to natural bodies of water outside the home (such as through panoramic windows). It’s essential to control noise levels to ensure that the sound of water remains soothing rather than distracting, and to maintain proper water circulation to prevent stagnation and contamination.

Use of natural materials

Natural and sustainable materials can be used in many different ways:

• For example, procuring furniture made of wood or stone;
• Making floors out of wood/cork;
• Decorate walls with natural materials (stone, brick, limestone are popular);
• Add clay elements to the interior of the flat, and so on.

It is important to realise, however, that natural materials require regular maintenance, besides, when designing it is worth considering that wood/stone reflect sounds differently and this will affect the acoustics.

Biophilic design through organic forms

It is not always possible to organise a green space with real plants and water bodies. The principles of biophilic design offer an alternative solution - adding patterns that resemble natural ones. For example, copying the shapes of plants, landscaping, and so on. This also has a positive psycho-emotional effect.