I have been studying Biophilic Design for several years because I believe it is the future of design both internal and external. I have worked on several school projects to help bring nature indoors and help the students grow. Below I share a few of my thoughts.
As humans, we have an innate connection with nature, and this connection has been shown to have a positive impact on our mental and physical well-being. Biophilic design is an approach to architecture and interior design that seeks to bring elements of nature into our built environments. It has been shown to have many benefits, and schools are one type of institution that can greatly benefit from the implementation of biophilic design principles. In this article, I will explore why schools in the UK and all around the planet should use biophilic design.
Improved Student Performance
Numerous studies have shown that exposure to natural environments can have a positive impact on student performance. For example, a study conducted in 2015 found that students who attended classes in classrooms with views of nature scored higher on tests and had higher grades than students who did not have access to these views. Another study found that classrooms with natural light and greenery had a positive impact on student behavior and well-being. By incorporating biophilic design principles into their buildings, schools can provide students with access to nature, which can and will improve their academic performance.
Reduced Stress and Anxiety
School can be a stressful environment for all students, and this stress can have a negative impact on their mental health. Biophilic design can help to reduce this stress and anxiety by creating a more calming and relaxing environment. For example, simply incorporating natural materials such as wood and stone into the design of a classroom can create a more soothing atmosphere, while adding a few plants or a green wall can help to improve air quality and create a more relaxing atmosphere.
Improved Air Quality
Indoor air quality can have a significant impact on student health and well-being. Poor air quality can lead to respiratory problems, allergies, and other health issues. Biophilic design can help to improve indoor air quality by incorporating plants and other natural elements that help to filter pollutants and improve air quality. Plants can absorb carbon dioxide, which is then converted into oxygen, and they can also remove harmful chemicals from the air.
Increased Physical Activity
Biophilic design can also actually help to increase physical activity among students. By incorporating natural elements into their buildings, schools can create spaces that encourage movement and activity. For example, incorporating natural features such as hills or rocks into a playground can create a more dynamic environment that encourages children to run, climb, and explore, and better still it feels like a more natural environment.
Promotes Sustainability
Biophilic design is often associated with sustainable building practices. By incorporating natural elements into their buildings, schools and educational institutions can reduce their environmental impact and promote sustainability. For example, using natural materials such as wood and stone can reduce the need for synthetic materials that have a higher environmental impact. Additionally, incorporating plants and other natural features can help to reduce the energy needed to heat and cool buildings, which can further reduce their environmental impact.
How can Harrogate Garden Design Help?
I hope I have helped explain how biophilic design is a powerful tool that schools can utilize to create a more engaging, healthy, and sustainable learning environment. However, implementing biophilic design principles can be a complex process that requires careful planning and attention to detail. At Harrogate Garden Design we are a specialist business that has worked in this space for several years, we have a ton of case studies we can share.
We can work with schools to design and implement biophilic features such as green walls, indoor gardens, natural lighting, and outdoor learning spaces. We can also incorporate natural materials such as wood and stone into the design of classrooms and other school spaces. With the team’s expertise in biophilic design, we can help schools to create spaces that are optimized for learning, health, and well-being.
To wrap up schools can greatly benefit from the implementation of biophilic design principles. By incorporating natural elements into their buildings, schools can create more engaging, healthy, and sustainable learning environments that promote student performance.
If you have any questions, please feel free to drop me an email.