A few words on Biophilia
A topic very close to my heart is Biophilic design – the integration of nature and elements of natural origin into architecture and human centre environments. Biophilia simply translates to a love of nature – of which we are a part and naturally drawn to. Plants, water, light, fresh air and the use of natural materials are vital elements for healthy internal and external spaces. Within urban infrastructure, the integration of trees and plants on and between buildings mitigates the effects of climate change and reconnects urban populations to a richly biodiverse environment. By the implementation of numerous and varied species into town and cityscapes, natural biodiversity is increased, bringing significantly enhanced benefits to human health and social well-being. There are a multitude of case studies proving time and again that exposure to a more diverse ‘outer biome’ of microbes protects and supports our own inner gut biome, increasing immunity and lowering disease. Not only this, but plants absorb water, pollutants and noise, while trees provide shade and cooling. Flood risk, exposure to heat and pollution are greatly reduced in greener urban areas.
And it’s not just about plants outside – plants matter inside too. As we spend more and more time indoors, the presence of, and engagement with foliage, within working, educational, medical and social spaces has a huge part to play in enhancing physical and mental health. Aside from the softening, calm ambiance and added aesthetic plants bring to a space, they also help to improve air quality, absorb noise and reduce stress. The positive psychological impact of simply engaging with a view of greenery is profound at a cellular level. An investment in plants is very worthwhile for a happier, more welcoming atmosphere, boosting mood, productivity, creativity and wellbeing.
Biophilic Design Conference
Next week the Biophilic Design Conference in London is being brilliantly organised by Vanessa Champion, creator of the Journal of Biophilic Design. Last year the inaugural event was held at the Barbican Centre; renowned for its vast conservatory home to many tropical plants, as well the integration of planting within its brutalist structure. It was such a deeply informative and inspiring day; hosting many speakers from across the platforms of architecture, interior design, construction, education and mental health, people who are at the forefront of designing and integrating biophilic design into built environments. I was in awe of such positive drives for change, the passion and clarity of the speakers and so excited for the future of greener infrastructure and the renewal of biodiversity in the all too often depleted ecology of urban landscapes. After the trashing of nature throughout the last few decades in the name of industry and urban sprawl, now more than ever, is the time for the reverse – to regenerate, restore, re-wild, preserve, protect and above all massively increase and diversify the urban ecology of our cities; outside – to protect from pollution and the ravages of the climate’s change and inside – as proven time and again, biophilia greatly enhances the quality of life in work places, hospitals and schools.
Recommended books
Urban Jungle, by Ben Wilson
The Light Within Us, by Xander Cadisch
Good Nature, by Kathy Willis
Wild Cities, by Chris Fitch