Biophilic design and architecture - 10 of the best biophilic buildings


We look at the best architecture and design projects that bring nature into man-made spaces.


Biophilic design and architecture aims at creating strong connections between nature and man-made environments, and has proven benefits, including helping office workers be more productive, encouraging children to learn and helping hospital patients get better.

Says Biophilic designer Oliver Heath: 'Biophilic design is more than just bringing the outside in, it's about making and strengthening a connection with many aspects of nature. It's about natural light, views on nature, plants, natural materials, textures and patterns.'

As our lives have become increasingly urbanised, our connection to nature - natural light, green spaces and organic materials - have diminished. However, developments in technology and new attitudes to design - as well as some very persuasive research on the subject - are leading to positive change, albeit only in a handful of trailblazing projects. Maybe someday every office worker will be able to harvest salad for her lunch from an urban farm and all our hospitals will be bright, airy places that seamlessly blend the technology of healing with the salubrious effects of the natural world; until then, here's our pick of the nine best examples of biophilic design and architecture.

 

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