As we become more commercial and prone to spending
less time with nature, our physiological and psychological health tends to
suffer. As a result, architecture has now evolved to bring us closer to nature.
Biophilic design aims to increase one’s primal connectivity to nature which
provides health, environmental and economic advantages even for an artificial
environment. One of the latest trends of this last year, this is a successful
strategy combining outdoor and indoor spaces. The use of scattered vegetation,
dynamic lighting, natural scents, local materials, and shelter brings nature
itself into our workplaces.
Often misconceived as a ‘trend of adding plants
everywhere’, it is often more complex than that. ‘Biophilic’ involves strategic
planning to create a green environment of rejuvenation, mindfulness and
emotional well-being. This enables staff to work, revitalize and collaborate to
enjoy a more productive atmosphere. The elements of the natural environment
include natural light, plants, animals, air, fire, moss, seashells, rocks, and
landscape – all of which can be converted into beautiful office designs.
What are the
latest trends in biophilic designs in 2019?
Though biophilia is a trend in itself, there are
several ways to execute one’s love for nature in the workspace. Greenery and
natural patterns can easily be integrated into architecture as has been done by
some of the biggest names in today’s world – namely, Google, OVH and Dropbox,
to name a few. All you have to do is get yourself the best interior designmagazine subscription to be looped into these trends.
·
Green installations
Symbolizing harmony, growth, fertility, and freshness,
the right use of green can truly replenish tired energy levels. Unlike the past
as a secondary aesthetic choice, green walls and dividers now participate in
pre-construction discussions as well. Common examples include the construction
of artificial and natural green walls, planters and hanging plants to promote
productivity, oxygen and concentration levels in the environment. Plant
partitions can be transformed to create private or collaborative spaces at
minimal cost and intrusion.
Example: Fosbury& Sons, a leading office workspace
solutions sector, lives up to its love for the green. Otherwise, minimalist
design features, such as potted plants placed near lobbies and desks, cheer up
the atmosphere and motivate people to perform their best.
·
Flooring
The trend in modern flowing is to recreate the
qualities of the natural environment through the use of wood, natural stone,
and forest floors. As with any architectural trend, the ultimate goal is to
bring in functionality, sustainability, and visual appeal through the right
blend of material and color. Arrange for comfortable seating and table
arrangements in outdoor spaces such as balconies, verandas, and gardens to
bring in the fresh air and light. As a result, your staff enjoys greater
productivity, creativity, and well-being.
·
Natural lighting
Natural lighting and landscapes have a tremendously
positive impact on employees, and architects have tried to incorporate the same
as much as possible. The use of large windows, circadian lighting and skylights
are a great way to welcome the sunshine, while biodynamic artificial lighting
does a great job of imitating the same. It impersonates natural sunlight
conditions, which helps in regulating the human body’s inherent circadian
rhythm. Humans have evolved to process light that falls from above, which stimulates
our non-visual light sense. Last but not least, natural light leads to better
stress management and higher sleep levels. Outdoor spaces can have designated
seating areas where employees can work in fresh light and air, promoting
creativity.
Example: Drop box’s lounge area features a blend of
monochromatic gray and pops of greenery through shadows, plants, and fireplaces
to create a minimalist and stimulating atmosphere.
·
Water
Water is one of those elements that infuse life into
an architectural structure through its rhythmic sound. Medical studies have
discovered that proximity to water can lower the heart rate and blood pressure,
and improve memory retention and stress. Due to its tranquil properties, water
can instill a sense of balance and renewal in one’s mind. The most common uses
of water in architecture can be seen in decorative ponds, water walls, and
fountains.
·
Wood
One of the most versatile and biophilically-designed
construction elements, wood is the perfect choice of material when it comes to
wall coverings, structural elements or flooring. The natural texture of wood
brings in a calming and motivating effect, and you have several options to
choose from. Reclaimed timber tends to give a more homely feeling to office
spaces, yet cutting back on the environmental damage. Inclusion of other
natural elements such as nature paintings and biomorphic patterns can relieve
stress, instills order and enhances our connection with nature even when it is
not possible to renovate.
Example: The cloud computing big shot OVH uses
lighter-colored wood to complement the natural sunlight and plants here and
there. It provides an invigorating space for both working and collaborating due
to its modern yet cozy appeal.
·
Technology in biophilic design
Though the biophilic design has always been kept
strictly unadulterated, technology does have its contribution to share. Thus,
the use of technological advancement is a combination of nature’s random
diversity and human beings’ angular rigidity yet a desire to adapt according to
modern times. Dynamic glass gradually changes from transparent to opaque to
bring in natural light, yet protect people against bright glare, heat and UV
rays. It boosts the staff’s mood to a great extent and promotes productivity,
and reduces costs and energy consumption as a bonus.
As a conclusion, it’s safe to say that biophilic
design has won over several people’s hearts due to its ‘back-to-nature’
concept. Take a leaf (pun intended) out of your favorite interior designer’s
book and liven up your office spaces, your staff will thank you for it!
