Ever wonder why office buildings have fountains in their mezzanine? Or, why Google and Amazon are building futuristic greenhouses? The answer is more than just fancy job perks, it’s actually scientific. Companies today have a greater understanding of the need for Biophilic design.
Biophilia suggests that humans possess an innate tendency to seek out connections with nature and other forms of life. Over the last few years, a new trend in design has emerged that is known as Biophilic Design. Biophilic design is the practice of connecting people and nature within our built environments and communities.
This means using natural design elements to bring people into nature in as many places as possible. Many tech offices and hospitals have already taken hold of the idea and made changes to their own facilities and the results are astonishing. It has been found that nature stimulates the parasympathetic system which relaxes and calms us, that in turn increases focus and decreases stress and irritability. This is great for any workplace because it can increase productivity and the overall happiness of all employees.
Other than water features and lots of natural light, using timber is one of the best ways to bring nature into a building. Using these design principles can help with a wide variety of positive outcomes such as personal health, productivity, happiness, and state of mind. Schools and Universities are beginning to take notice as well, and have started incorporating Biophilic design in classrooms and hallways to promote emotional well-being.
To learn more about the various species we carry that can be used in Biophilic design visit our Species page.
