This is part 2 of a 3-part blog post series on biophilic design and associated resources. These blog posts complement our recent educational webinar on biophilic design.
Access to Nature
Biophilic design is more than *just* plants! There is so much in our built environment that impacts how we experience and respond to space, and that includes the materials we interact with. Implementing the principles of Biophilic Design should be an ongoing and layered approach throughout the design process.
When TSP began designing our new office space, a main goal was to find ways to preserve occupants connection to the outdoors. The previous office space was at grade, with pedestrian engagement and views of trees. Moving to the second floor, and the removal of trees due to bridge work, the connection to the outdoors was lost. The building does not have an accessible roof, so the team needed to explore ways to provide regular access to nature in the space.
A visual connection with nature has been shown to improve cognitive performance through improved mental engagement/attentiveness. (14 Patterns of Biophilic Design) To provide respite for occupants that look at a screen for the majority of their day, large windows from all open office workstations, as well as each private office, provide views to the sky. Additionally, the space includes views to a living green wall in both of the open studio spaces, as well as the admin suite of offices to allow the eye to relax and adjust. It was important to the design team and occupants to replace the views of mature trees we once had on the ground level.
The team wanted to provide a material connection with nature as well. Material connection to nature has been shown to improve cognitive performance through decreased diastolic blood pressure and improved creative performance. (14 Patterns of Biophilic Design) The Design Team chose to incorporate wood plank and wood slat ceilings and wall feature areas that not only assisted with acoustics but provided natural elements that can been seen by all occupants. All wood in the space is FSC-certified.
A felt baffle ceiling in an organic wave pattern, located in the center of the office, allows occupants in the studio spaces, meeting rooms, and even some private offices a view of an organic and biomorphic form. Research has shown there is a preference for organic forms and they can reduce stress and enhance concentration (14 Patterns of Biophilic Design). This ceiling also provides unrestricted access to electrical and mechanical above, while contributing toward the overall acoustic comfort in the space. Several flooring materials and patterns were chosen to provide visual cues to assist with circulation and organize space. Three different carpets were used to delineate space, while a hand-troweled epoxy terrazzo floor was used for all main circulation paths. The two large, open studio spaces feature carpet tile with an organic pattern that does not suggest direction or repetition.
To address the strategy of refuge in nature of the space, the project incorporated a wellness room with adjustable lighting and artwork . A place of refuge has been shown to improve cognitive performance through improved concentration, attention and perception of safety. (14 Patterns of Biophilic Design)
Biophilic Design Resources
- Biophilic Design: The Theory, Science, and Practice of Bringing Buildings to Life By Stephen Kellert
- Biomimicry: Innovation Inspired by Nature By Janine M. Benyus
- Creating Biophilic Buildings By Amanda Sturgeon and Juliet Grable
- 14 Patterns of Biophilic Design: Improving Health & Well-Being in the Built Environment By Terrapin Bright Green
- Biophilic Design Guidebook by Living Futures
- Biophilic Design Toolkit by Living Futures
TSP is ready to support biophilic design education, inspiration, and guidance on your next project. We are constantly looking for ways to innovate, inspire, and provide better quality high performance green buildings. Be sure to check back for our upcoming blog posts on biophilic design and join us for the free webinar.
