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Biophilic Design Architecture:7 best Biophilic Architecture Case Study

Alright, the topic, will cover is Biophilic Design Architecture and 7 Biophilic Architecture Case Study.

In this modern world of Architecture design and construction, you will observe that humans have developed livelihoods. 

Past 60-70 years, it was just a dream to live on a skyscraper that heights 828 meters, Burj Khalifa. But now that dream is a reality.

But, Constructing such a huge infrastructure of steel and concrete. We have built a concrete jungle over the forest. 

According to the UN (United Nations) report, from 2001-2020 within 20 years, almost 100 million hectares of net loss forest land were found. 

So, How can we stop deforestation, and convert our concrete buildings into eco-friendly buildings?

The Solution is implementing the theory of Biophilic design into our buildings or structures.

With proper Consultancy and guidance from professionals, we can resolve the issue and achieve the goal of Ecofriendly buildings. 

There are 7 Biophilic Architecture Case Study, and they are:-

What is Biophilic Design?

It’s a theory which approaches nature with the modern architectural built environment. In short, it’s a Synchronization of Nature with modern technology.

The term “Biophilia” is used in Biophilic Design, firstly used by German-born American psychoanalyst Erich Fromm, in his book the anatomy of human destructiveness(1973).

Biophilic Design in Architecture focuses on Natural materials example: Natural light, view of nature, living system, control, Acoustics environment, and Dynamic Spaces.

Biophilic Design is a concept in Architecture that aims to create a building and build environment that encourages health, well-being and a deeper connection to the nature of the space

Biophilic Architecture Case Study

There is a list with descriptions of 7 case studies of Biophilic Architecture buildings and other structures, they are:-

The Prow, Seattle, USA- Aidlin Darling Design

The first case study is That project, named the Prow is part of Expedia Group. The site is located on 40 acre (16 hectares) Corporate Campus in Seattle’s Interbay neighbourhood.

Biophilic Design Architecture
Credit- Archdaily

US-based Architecture Studio, Aildlin Darling Studio has created a space for Expedia Group that will run an online travel Company.

Biophilic Design Architecture

Special features of this campus office building are down to the waterfront and common park. Some more features are also mentioned:-

  1. Single-storey structure within the angular floor plan plotted on site which is the slope.
  2. The material used for walls are stones, glass, and wood (timber). 

The plateaus are lined with rip-rap rock walls, such kinds of elements preferred by the Studio.

Biophilic Design Architecture

The Biophilic Architects showed their interest in natural materials like rough-sawn cedar and Douglas fir.

Biophilic Design Architecture

The aim of the studio was to create a soulful place that calms both mind and body. 

Moreover, it was designed in such a manner that takes care of health and well-being. 

If we study this project, it truly follows the theory of Biophilia.

Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil- Perkins+Wills

This is a project designed by Perkins+Wills studio in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Biophilic Design Architecture

The dwelling units of the residence are an amalgamation of modern connected with nature aspects of Architecture

We may consider this structure as an eco-friendly structure which follows theory structure which follows the theory of biophilic design.

Biophilic Design Architecture

Biophilic design over here in this structure aims to connect humans with the natural environment.

Materials used in this Structure are Wood, Metal, and Glass.

Biophilic Design Architecture

Some features of this structure overthinking roofs and teak screen that supports the glazed wall. 

This will also reduce the UV effect in the interiors of the residence by solar penetration.

Biophilic Design Architecture

North Side of Residence– There is a bar extending to the west connected with the gym and home theatre. 

Centre of the house– There is composed of a living room with an open dining area with a kitchen in the house.

South Side of Residence– There is a Slender bridge that passes over a lower-level courtyard which connects with a second terrace and linear lawn.

Biophilic Design Architecture

A patch of grass turf is being put on the roof of lower levels, such techniques of implementing such natural materials will insulate the thermal heat and chilled cold breeze and makes the interiors suitable for the occupants. 

It was proved by Doctors and scientists that if you see the “green” colour, the more you will feel relaxed and healed if you are injured.

The same concept is implemented in this residence, you will observe that large stretches of glass wall draw.

The focus of occupants around the surrounding greenery includes ferns, palm trees and other foliage.

Magdi Yacoub Global Heart Centre Hospital, Cairo, Egypt- Foster+Partners

A 300-bed hospital is under construction and designed by Foster+Partners.

Biophilic Design Architecture

The hospital has small roofscapes and nestles within a lush verdant landscape.

Foster+Partner used the principle of Biophilic design which seeks to satisfy people’s physical and emotional needs of nature.

Biophilic Design Architecture

This feature was integrated by the use of Natural Material.

Biophilic Design Architecture

The Design of the hospital is implemented in a manner which maximises the natural light, greenery, and outward views in an effort to help speed up patient recovery time inside the structure.

World’s Largest Agritourism Destination, Dubai, UAE- URB

Illustrating a biophilic design, a winding floor plan sets the greenhouse for easy access and walkability, enhanced by a series of patios alongside. 

Biophilic Design Architecture

The typology of the hub provides visitors with a unique agritourism experience while giving them a sense of being outside in nature.

Featuring a nature & heritage conservation centre, an ecotourism centre, an Agri-tech institute, and a wellness centre. 

Biophilic Design Architecture

The venue of the site will be Dubai’s desert, Agri Hub plans to serve as a blueprint for decarbonized rural destinations of the future, starting with preventing carbon emissions from construction and operation.

Commercial District, London, UK- HWKN and BIG Design 

According to the report, New York-based architectural firm HWKN going to design and construct 18,200 square meters of urban development in the commercial quarter of the new Canada Water regeneration plan. 

Biophilic Design Architecture

The total area is 215,000 square meters of the Canada Water Masterplan is expected to deliver up to 3,000 new homes.

Over 280,000 square meters of workspace, and community space in central-south London. 

This will be the first new town centre in London in 50 years and would become the UK’s most sustainable new urban hub after completion.

The site will be Located on the peninsula of Rotherhithe, beside the river Thames, the docks have a unique industrial heritage.

Project completion is to be expected in 2035.

8 Shenton Way, Singapore- SOM

A 305-metre-tall, 8 Shenton Way will become the Asian city’s first supertall skyscraper.

Biophilic Design Architecture

This structure measures between 300 and 600 metres in height.

The site will be situated in the Central Business District and Marina Bay sections of Singapore, the tower will hold offices

Biophilic Design Architecture

This Structure is designed by SOM and developed by East Asian firm Perennial Holdings Private Limited with DCA Architects of Singapore.

Biophilic Design Architecture

The massing of the structure is designed on the concept of bamboo forests, a biophilic design that resonates with vertical elements found in nature.

Biophilic Design Architecture

The structure illustrates a curved pedestal for the skyscraper covered in vertical louvres and stylised fans.

On the Terraces area, the use landscape will be spread throughout the height of the skyscraper.

Biophilic Design Architecture

Some are available to guests of the hotel planned for the structure and some for the residents of the apartments also.

Completion of the project will be in 2028.

Amazon headquarters, Seattle, USA- NBBJ

This Project was designed by the American architecture firm NBBJ later which got approval for the project in 2013.

Biophilic Design Architecture

In Seattle, the three glazed orbs are constructed from 620 tons of steel which are supported on a thick concrete base. 

All 3 units share an open-plan indoor area that is filled with thousands of plants, which can be viewed from multiple angles and sites.

Biophilic Design Architecture

This Sphere dome measures around 90 feet (27 metres) tall and 130 feet (39 metres) in diameter. 

Biophilic Design Architecture

Over 40,000 individual plants from all over the world fill the building, which provides work areas and meeting places for Amazon employees. 

Creating such a cloud forest-type ecosystem creates its own mini world.

Biophilic Design Architecture

The main goal of Studio is to design such a Spherical dome to create a unique gathering place where employees could collaborate and innovate together.

Where the Seattle community could gather to experience biodiversity in the centre of the city.

6 Basic Principles of Biophilic Design

The 6 basic principles are:

Environmental features: Connection to nature

Contacting vegetation around the building environment.

It is the most progressive strategy for adopting the human and nature connection in architectural design.

Using Natural elements like- Water, sunlight, actual vegetation and etc.

Choosing such characteristics will help space reduce the stress and injuries of the occupants.

By Adding Vegetation we can heal the patients in hospitals. 

Not even the interior, but putting vegetation beside the pathways, and outside the seating area will also help, and get the same result.

By following these points and elements, we can easily achieve the Environmental features in biophilic design, so make sure to take this point priority. 

Organic Shapes: Natural shapes and forms

Nature had shown many complex Organic shapes from mountains, Sky, and plant leaves.

Natural patterns and processes are generally organic in nature, whereas natural shapes don’t have straight and finite lines and shapes.

Even right-angle triangles and symmetrical shapes will hardly be found.

Natural shapes include columns, ovals, arches, spirals, circles, botanicals, motifs, biometry and etc.

Light and Space (Natural)

Implementing lights in any kind of space creates a dynamic, stimulating and focused form.

Such a place or space where an abundance of natural light is present attracts people to approach the nature of space.

Threw are many examples:- the opening where light is coming by that shadow is casting, pergolas, skylights and dynamism intensity of light.

Natural light and space can change the interior’s temperature.

The more Warm light will rise the temperature, while dim white and blue light will keep the temperature low or cool.

Place-based relationships

This biophilic element focuses on connection with the ecology and prominent geographical features like mountains, deserts, rivers, and plants. 

Human-Nature Relationships

The inherent relationship between humans and nature. The biophilic design addresses the affinity toward nature. 

Biophilic design is a new approach to restoring our connection with nature in space

The concept gives a sense of responsibility for the planet and our relationship with it.

Restorative patterns and processes

Human evolution and survival have always required managing highly sensuous and variable natural environments, particularly responding to the sight, sound, smell, touch, and other sensory systems.

A central focal point offers reflection, stillness, and the chance to experience the soothing tones of wind chimes.,

Following such Strategies, makes it easy for the Architect to sketch the foundation of Biophilic structures. 

9 Biophilic Design Elements

Some key biophilic design elements include-

  1. Access to natural light
  2. Views of nature
  3. Plants and greenery
  4. Water features
  5. Organic shapes and patterns
  6. Acoustic environments
  7. Thermal and airflow comfort
  8. Dynamic and diverse spaces
  9. Social and community space

Concepts of Biophilic Design

Basically, there are 7 types of different concepts of biophilia that follow the Biophilic Design, and these are- 

Nature Deficit Disorder

The idea is that humans have an innate need for contact with nature and that being disconnected from nature can have negative impacts on mental and physical health.

Attention Restoration Theory

The theory is that being in the nature of the space can help restore attention and reduce stress.

Biomimicry

The practice of designing building and landscape spaces based on patterns and systems found in nature.

Evolutionary Adaptation

The idea is that humans have evolved to be in a relationship with nature and that the natural environment is crucial to our health and well-being.

Place Attachment

The emotional connection people have to specific places, including natural environments.

Sensory Experience

The idea is that people respond to various sensory experiences in their environment, such as light, sound, and texture.

Health and Well-Being

The idea is that spaces that incorporate elements of nature can promote health and well-being.

Difference between Biophilic Design Architecture and Sustainable Architecture

Biophilic design ArchitectureSustainable Architecture
Its job is to seek to connect people with nature through design elements, materials, and spaces that mimic or evoke natural environments.On the other hand, Sustainable Architecture focuses on the environmental impact of buildings and their ability to conserve resources and minimize waste. It considers factors such as energy efficiency, material sourcing, water conservation, and indoor environmental quality.

List of materials used for Biophilic Design

The biophilic design includes natural materials such as:

  1. Wood
  2. Stone
  3. Water
  4. Plants
  5. Glass
  6. Textiles made from natural fibres (e.g. wool, cotton)
  7. Light (including natural light, and artificial light that mimics natural light patterns)
  8. Natural colours and patterns
  9. Natural textures (such as rough stone or smooth wood)

These materials are used in a variety of ways to create environments that connect people with nature and promote well-being.

Benefits of Biophilic Design

A list of Biophilic designs has been shown to have numerous benefits, including

  1. Improved well-being and health
  2. Increased productivity and creativity
  3. Enhanced learning and memory
  4. Improved indoor air quality
  5. Increased comfort and thermal regulation
  6. Better sleep
  7. Reduced energy consumption
  8. Increased connection to nature

Future of Biophilic Design

The future of biophilic design in architecture is very crucial. We are going to almost move a quarter past 21st-century in 2-3 years.

In the modern era, we are observing that there is a need for eco-friendly buildings. 

By promoting Biophilic design, we can easily able to resolve the issue of health and global warming as well.

Conclusion– Biophilic Architecture Case Study

As you read the full article, I think the point which is mentioned above is enough to make you understand Biophilic Design Architecture. There are 7 Biophilic Architecture Case Study which shows the resemblance of Biophilic Design.

By following the theory of Biophilic design in the structure, we can easily achieve the goal of Eco-friendly structures.

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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Is biophilic sustainable?

Biophilic Design encourages the use of wood grain, and plants to reduce VOCs, airflow through windows, better acoustics, natural lighting and etc.

In short, Biophilic Design supports the use of sustainable materials and developments.

Name any one famous biophilic design, which is famous all over the world.

Biophilic Design Architecture

Apple Park, California, USA It is the leading example of biophilic design. The doughnut-shaped structure copies the natural curves found in nature and brings light into the offices from every angle. 

A new, 9,000-tree are planted throughout the campus.

What are the primary elements of a biophilic city?

Biophilic Cities’ main primarily is a global design and planning movement that recognizes the innate human affiliation with nature.

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