As urbanisation continues to grow, the connection between us and nature is becoming increasingly severed. However, there may be a way to repair this disconnect.
“Biophilia” has become one of the most popular buzzwords in modern home and workplace design. At L+ Architects, we believe that “biophilia” is best expressed through one of our favourite quotes by Lord Byron: “I love not Man the less, but Nature more”. Biophilic design involves creating spaces that help us reconnect with nature, promoting a sense of peace and tranquillity for the occupants.
L+ Architects was founded by a married couple, Lindsey Webster, a Landscape Architect, and Pablo Lambrechts, a Principal Architect. With their rich experience and innovative designs, they believe incorporating nature into architectural designs is key to improving people’s well-being and mental health. They use various elements like light, air, form, materials, and space to bring the essence of nature indoors. They aim to create a multi-sensory, three-dimensional experience that enhances mental health and well-being. The global pandemic in 2020 made them realise the importance of their vision more than ever before. The ideology of Biophilia was born from the idea that humans possess an innate tendency to seek connections with nature and other forms of life.
The term ‘biophilia’ was initially used by German-born American psychoanalyst Erich Fromm in The Anatomy of Human Destructiveness (1973), which described biophilia as “the passionate love of life and of all that is alive.” American biologist Edward O. Wilson later used the term in his work Biophilia (1984), which proposed that the tendency of humans to focus on and to affiliate with nature and other life forms has, in part, a genetic basis. In the book ‘Biophilia’ Edward O. Wilson states, “Humanity is exalted not because we are so far above other living creatures, but because knowing them well elevates the very concept of life.”
At L+Architects we believe it’s important for our clients to appreciate the significance of biophilic design in the present day. We are passionate about delivering designs that help to restore our forgotten relationship with the natural world. By incorporating natural elements and bringing the outside into our space, we can enhance our connection to the natural environment. This can be achieved through direct nature, indirect nature, and space and place conditions. These words are reflected in our designs and work.
In the following, we outline how the principles of Biophilia can be achieved through light, air, materials, form, and space.
Lighting is a result of the interplay between light and shadow. You can achieve this effect by experimenting with dynamic or diffused light, which simulates sunlight, moonlight, or starlight. Another way to incorporate natural light is to design spaces that allow it inside. Windows can expand the space and provide a visual connection to the outdoors, whether it’s trees, fields, or the ocean, giving individuals a sense of being connected to nature.
One important aspect of biophilic design is the use of air. Studies have shown that green walls and active walls with plants can improve indoor air quality, as they increase airflow through the soil and remove pollutants. This can have a positive impact on residents’ immune systems, health, wellbeing, and mood. Additionally, incorporating biophilic design can increase humidity and naturally cool a space, providing an energy-efficient solution for indoor environments.
The underlying principle of biophilic design is to use sustainably sourced organic materials such as wood, cork, wool, leather, and stone. To take it a step further, an elevated biophilic design concept could also use circular economy materials made from new and evolving materials like coffee grinds, railroad timber, seaweed, and coconut fibre. At L+ Architects, we strive to create designs that respect the environment and correspond to the building’s urban function. By using sustainable materials, we aim to reconnect with nature and create harmony between urbanisation and the natural world.
The American architect Frank Lloyd Wright is credited with coining the term ‘organic architecture.’ This type of architectural design takes inspiration from nature and aims to create buildings that seamlessly blend in with their surroundings. Our design philosophy is heavily influenced by this ethos, and we strive to embody it in the shape and form of our creations.
There are various ways to bring this principle to life, including but not limited to:
The term “space” in design pertains to the area occupied by a shape or form, as well as the background it stands against. Biophilic design, on the other hand, incorporates natural elements to create a seamless and open space that blurs the boundaries between man-made design and nature. The intent behind this approach is to help us rediscover our relationship with the environment, which we have lost the ability to live in harmony with, and the true significance of its importance.
At L+ Architects, we aim to reflect our core values through our unique and thoughtful designs. Our work is refined, original, and carefully considered. We draw inspiration from shape, form, light, and movement, and we strive to create spaces that seamlessly integrate the indoors and outdoors, fostering a connection between humanity and nature. Our designs prioritize environmental sustainability, resulting in more efficient properties that encourage new ways of living and promote evolved lifestyles.
We welcome a conversation about Biophilic design, and your enquiries can be directed to: office@lplusarchitects.com
L+ Architects is a biophilic, design-led studio that wants to design a greener world by intertwining the natural elements into commercial and residential buildings.
With our innovative approach through modern methods of construction, we provide our clients with awe-inspiring, future-proof designs which are cost-effective.
At L + Architects we want to ensure best practice in every aspect of our approach. Talk to us today about your next project – office@lplusarchitects.com