Biophilic design is a design framework for the built environment that promotes occupant health by tapping into people’s innate connection to nature. Although, humans have been adding natural features and motifs as decorative elements to their buildings for millennia, only recently have we started to understand why and how the inclusion or exclusion of these elements affects our health and wellbeing. By recognizing different biophilic elements and understanding their effects on humans, we can make meaningful changes to our spaces that are beneficial to both the environment and the people within.

During this presentation, participants will acquire a foundational understanding of biophilic design elements, learn about empirical evidence reporting on their effects on stress and cognitive performance – with a focus on hospital and educational environments, and explore the application of biophilic design processes to their own workspaces.