Biophilic design: how to bring nature into commercial premises?
In today's world where we spend most of our time inside, it's more important than ever to find ways to bring a piece of nature closer to us and our work. Biophilic design, a concept that is becoming increasingly popular in the world of architecture and interior design, offers a solution. CAPEXUS brings you not only the experience of nature-respecting implementations, but also some key information and current trends.
What is biophilic design?
Biophilic design is an approach to architecture and interior design that integrates natural elements and processes into an artificial environment. It involves the use of direct elements of nature such as plants, water, natural light, but also indirect elements such as materials, textures and patterns inspired by nature.
Such interiors are harmonious with nature and therefore closer to humans. They support our health and well-being, reduce energy and material consumption, and enhance biodiversity. As a result, they contribute to sustainability.
A great example of the aforementioned approach is the River Corner lobby, winner of the Recepce roku 2023 in the Design category, where the inspiration is a river and an imaginary watercourse with elements such as granite blocks weighing almost 2 tonnes in total.
Flowers and flowering sakura can be found in the new LMC offices, which won 1st place in Kanceláře roku 2022 competition in the IT Office category.
Why is biophilic design important?
Research shows that biophilic design can have a significant positive impact on a person's physical and mental health. Workers in environments that incorporate biophilic elements often report lower stress levels, improved mood, increased productivity and overall job satisfaction. Since people often spend a significant portion of their day at work and in cities, connecting with nature can be key to supporting their overall health and well-being.
How does CAPEXUS implement biophilic design?
CAPEXUS approaches biophilic design with an eye to its importance in creating inspiring work environments.
We integrate live plants, green walls and water features into the design of offices, which not only improve the aesthetics of the space, but also contribute to cleaner air and increased humidity, which has a positive effect on the health of employees.
Maximising natural light and creating spaces with views of the exterior is also key. This not only reduces energy usage, but also helps to support employees' circadian rhythms, leading to better sleep and increased productivity.
Last but not least, we choose materials such as wood, stone and other natural textures that bring a sense of warmth and comfort to the interior. These materials are often sustainable and add to the overall ecological footprint of the project.
Our portfolio includes projects where we have taken biophilic design to the next level by using sound systems and audio recordings from the natural environment in combination with aromatherapy. So, for example, in the battery charging area called the Zen garden you can relax to the sound of a tropical forest, the sound of the sea or the tones of Tibetan bowls or the sounds of a gong
Benefits and challenges of biophilic design
The biophilic design offers a number of benefits including increased productivity, reduced stress levels and support for physical and mental health. Michaela Hoďánková, founder and managing director of Flower Company, confirms this.
As humans, we have been in the wild for millions of years and have been an immediate part of it. Our lives have changed with breathtaking speed, but evolution is not so fast. Every little piece of nature we put back into our lives has a beneficial effect on us. Green is a calming colour. Studies show that greenery in offices reduces stress levels, brings more energy, cleans the air, improves acoustics, helps create a friendlier atmosphere, even increases productivity by 15%.
CAPEXUS uses biophilic design as a key element in creating innovative and sustainable commercial spaces that enrich employees' lives and promote their well-being and efficiency. All without the client having to worry about integrating elements and functionality of the workspace. The result is environments that not only look great, but are also in harmony with nature and the human need to be connected to it.
If you also desire a connection with nature, just give us a call and leave the rest to our experts.
Authors of the photos: Michaela Bursíková, Martina Prášková, Unsplash, Shutterstock
Published: April 29, 2024