Buildings designed to connect people with nature and to mimic the patterns and systems found in the natural world.

Photo: The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine is Norway’s veterinary educational institution at the Norwegian University of Life Science, which is Breeam-Excellent certified.

Biophilia and Biomimicry in Architecture

Biophilia and biomimicry are two concepts that are gaining momentum in the field of architecture. Both are based on the idea that buildings should be designed to connect people with nature and to mimic the patterns and systems found in the natural world.

Biophilia

Biophilia is the idea that people have an innate connection to nature and that being in contact with nature is essential for human well-being. This concept has been used in architecture to create spaces that are not only functional but also promote health and well-being. Buildings that incorporate biophilic design elements, such as natural light, plants, and natural materials, have been shown to improve mood, reduce stress, and increase productivity.

Biomimicry

Biomimicry is the practice of mimicking the patterns and systems found in nature to solve human problems. In architecture, this can mean using the principles of natural systems, such as the way a termite mound regulates temperature, to inform the design of buildings. By studying the way nature solves problems, architects and designers can create buildings that are more energy-efficient, adaptable, and resilient.

One example of biomimicry in architecture is the use of shading systems that mimic the way leaves on a tree provide shade. The building design can incorporate angled, adjustable louvers that move with the sun to provide optimal shading, just like leaves on a tree.

Another example is the use of green roofs, walls, and vertical gardens that mimic the way plants grow in nature. These systems help to reduce the urban heat island effect, improve air quality, and provide habitat for wildlife.

Benefitial incorporation

Incorporating biophilic and biomimicry elements in architecture is not only beneficial for the environment but also for the people who live and work in the building. Studies have shown that buildings with biophilic design elements have lower absenteeism and improved productivity, while buildings that incorporate biomimicry principles are more energy-efficient and resilient.

In conclusion, the integration of biophilia and biomimicry in architecture can lead to the creation of buildings that are not only functional but also promote health and well-being, while being more environmentally friendly and energy efficient.

Read key impacts of sustainable building materials. By GAIA architect and scientist Chris Butters.

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