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AuthorHarun OlçayNovember 29, 2025 at 7:16 AM

Biophilic Design

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Biophilic design is the integration of natural elements into the built environment to strengthen humans’ innate connection with nature. This concept is based on the “biophilia hypothesis,” proposed by biologist Edward O. Wilson in 1984. According to Wilson, humans are biologically programmed to form bonds with nature, and when this connection is severed, it leads to stress, difficulty concentrating, and unhappiness.

Core Principles of Biophilic Design

  • Natural Light and Ventilation: Large windows allow sunlight to enter, while natural airflow reduces reliance on artificial climate control.
  • Plant Integration: Vertical gardens, indoor plants, and green roofs add vitality to spaces.
  • Natural Materials: Using organic materials such as wood, stone, and bamboo creates a warmer and more inviting atmosphere.
  • Water Elements: Fountains, small ponds, or aquariums impart a calming atmosphere to the environment.
  • Forms Imitating Nature: Wavy lines, organic shapes, and fractal patterns trigger relaxation responses in the human brain.

Benefits of Biophilic Design

  • Reduces Stress: Natural elements lower cortisol levels and promote relaxation.
  • Increases Productivity: Biophilic design in offices enhances employees’ focus and creativity.
  • Improves Air Quality: Plants filter toxins from the air, creating a healthier environment.
  • Enhances Aesthetics and Comfort: Natural materials and colors make spaces feel warmer and more welcoming.

Examples of Biophilic Design

Green terraces and hanging gardens within a hotel (Pexels

Office filled with tropical plants (Pexels)

Twin towers featuring a vertical forest concept (Pexels)

Bibliographies





Cotogni, Alberto. “Milano’daki Bosco Verticale Konut Gökdelenleri.” Pexels. Accessed May 31, 2025. https://www.pexels.com/tr-tr/fotograf/milano-daki-bosco-verticale-konut-gokdelenleri-21047957/

Cyrill. “Kent, Şehir, Tatil, Ufuk Çizgisi.” *Pexels*. Accessed May 31, 2025. https://www.pexels.com/tr-tr/fotograf/kent-sehir-tatil-ufuk-cizgisi-15480402/

Heerwagen, Judith. 2009. “Biophilia, Health, and Well‑Being.” In *Restorative Commons: Creating Health and Well‑Being Through Urban Landscapes*, edited by Lindsay Campbell and Anne Wiesen, 38–57. Gen. Tech. Rep. NRS-P-39. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northern Research Station. Accessed May 31, 2025. https://research.fs.usda.gov/treesearch/15132.

Kellert, Stephen R., and Edward O. Wilson. The Biophilia Hypothesis. Washington, DC: Island Press, 1993.

Salman, Hussein Haidar. “Şehir Merkezi, Seattle, Birleşik Devletler - Dar Açılı Çekim.” Pexels. Accessed May 31, 2025. https://www.pexels.com/tr-tr/fotograf/sehir-merkezi-seattle-birlesik-devletler-dar-acili-cekim-15196224/

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Contents

  • Core Principles of Biophilic Design

  • Benefits of Biophilic Design

  • Examples of Biophilic Design

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