Biophilia is becoming a bit of a buzzword in the world of design. So what is biophilic design, and why has it become so popular?
Biophilic design is based on the idea that humankind’s intrinsic connection to nature can be used to design spaces that support ideal functionality in humans.
This concept has become an issue of particular importance in office design as awareness of how work spaces impact the productivity and mental health of those who work within them has grown.
Biophilic design has been shown to have positive effects upon stress reduction, cognitive performance and resilience, concentration, and overall mood enhancement.
The actual design aspects behind biophilic design can be broken into three categories: Nature in Space, Natural Analogues, and Nature of the Space.
Nature in Space refers to the direct, physical, and transient presence of nature in a space or place. This category is further broken down into seven design patterns, but is most easily characterized as nature that is somehow integrated into a given space. This can be accomplished through the inclusion of plants, a flowing water source, breezes, natural sounds, scents, a view of nature, the presence of dynamic and diffuse light, and other natural elements.
Natural Analogues addresses non-living and indirect representations of nature. Natural Analogues can be pictorial representations of nature, furniture shaped like natural elements (e.g. leaves), or items that recall a relationship to nature, like wood or stone.
Nature of the Space addresses spatial configurations that occur in nature. The types of spaces represented within this category are also ones that most people seek out instinctually – lookouts, cave-like structures, partially obscured areas imbued with a sense of mystery, or spaces that pair a certain amount of risk with a reliable safeguard.
NanaWall opening glass walls primarily address Nature in Space and Nature of the Space. A NanaWall system can combine the majority of the elements in these two categories almost effortlessly.
If facing a natural landscape, the glass panels of a NanaWall system provide not only a visual connection with surrounding nature, but an expansive view that allows one to surveil it. When the system is open, the visual element also becomes a potentially tactile one. Additionally, the open system allows the space to be naturally ventilated, and to take advantage of passing breezes and any scents that may drift upon them.
Whether open or closed, the transparent nature of an opening glass wall ensures a wealth of natural light within the space.
A space with an ajar opening glass wall also lends the perfect sense of refuge per the Nature of the Space category.
We know Mother Nature has a mind of her own, but our products are known for their performance when closed, so you can rest easy knowing the interior of your space will be protected.
Whether you’re looking to incorporate biophilic design into a residential or commercial environment, NanaWall’s extensive line of folding, sliding, stacking, and frameless opening glass walls have you covered.
Questions about opening glass walls and biophilic design? Connect immediately with a NanaWall expert.