How are Biophilic Design and Sustainable Design Different?
Nature is an essential part of our daily lives. It underpins our economy, our society, and our existence, providing us with food to eat and air to breathe. Nature is so important that the world’s natural capital is valued at $125 trillion.
For many years, designers and developers have incorporated nature into architecture for various reasons. Biophilic design and sustainable design are two well-known design principles that revolve around nature, and yet both have vastly different purposes. Whilst one is dedicated to minimising the impacts on the natural world, the other is committed to maximising the health and happiness of the population.
Although sitting at opposite ends of the spectrum, recent studies have identified the importance of biophilic design in shaping a sustainable future. Here’s how.
Biophilic vs sustainable - what's the difference?
Biophilic design and sustainable design are two design approaches to have gained traction in recent years. Although representing distinct design philosophies, biophilic design and sustainable design principles can be used together to create harmonious and healthy spaces.
Sustainable design
Sustainable design refers to the practice of designing buildings and spaces that minimise the impact the manmade environment has on the natural world. Sustainable designs aim to protect the natural world by minimising the use of non-renewable resources, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and decreasing the environmental impact of the built environment.
Principles of sustainable design include things like energy-efficient lighting, solar panels, and the use of recycled materials in construction.
Biophilic design
Biophilic design, on the other hand, focuses on human’s innate connection to nature and the natural world. It seeks to create spaces that incorporate natural elements like daylight, plants, water, and natural materials like wood and stone to establish spaces that promote health and wellbeing.
Biophilic design principles revolve around the human connection to nature and create spaces where people feel more relaxed, more productive, and happier. Biophilic design is proven to have numerous benefits such as reducing stress, alleviating anxiety and improving cognitive function.
Working together
Though sustainable design and biophilic design have different goals, they can be used together to create harmonious spaces with nature at the heart. By combining elements of both approaches, office fit-out companies have the opportunity to create spaces that are not only sustainable but also promote health and wellbeing.
Incorporating natural elements
One way to incorporate both sustainable and biophilic design principles is through the use of plants. The benefits of indoor plants are seemingly endless, helping biophilic designers to enhance employee wellbeing and productivity, and allowing sustainable designers to improve air quality, add shade and boost insulation.
Plants can be used in a variety of ways – from statement trees to desk cacti – and can therefore be incorporated into many workplace design aesthetics. Incorporating plants into the workplace is a simple yet effective way to create a more sustainable and biophilic environment.
Is biophilic design sustainable?
While sustainable design and biophilic design have different goals, they can be used together to create spaces that are not only sustainable but also promote health and wellbeing. By incorporating elements of both approaches, office fit-out companies can create spaces that are harmonious and healthy, promoting the wellbeing of both people and the planet.
Plant Plan
Plant Plan is a company that works with businesses to incorporate plants into their spaces, creating a more biophilic environment that supports sustainable design.
With over 40+ years of working with office fit-out companies, we’re here to help you establish working environments that people love to be in. We’ll help you with design, plant selection, installation and ongoing maintenance to develop spaces that are enriched by the benefits of nature.
Ready to make a lasting impression on your clients and their employees? Drop your email here and we’ll be in touch to discuss the ways we can work together.
FAQs:
Q: How many plants should I have in my office?
A: The number of plants you should have in your office depends on the size of your workspace and the available natural light. As a general rule, aim for one medium-sized plant per every 100 square feet of space.
Q: Do office plants require a lot of maintenance?
A: Not necessarily. Many office plants are low-maintenance and require minimal attention. It's important to choose plants that are suited for the lighting and temperature conditions of your office.
Q: Can office plants improve air quality?
A: Yes, office plants can improve air quality by removing harmful toxins from the air and releasing oxygen.
How we can help.
At Plant Plan, we offer a wide range of options for office plant hire, including sustainable office plants, indoor plant hire, and office landscaping with plant displays. Our indoor plant hire service allows businesses to choose from a variety of plants to suit their office's aesthetic and size. And with our office plants for lease, businesses can change up their plants regularly to keep their office looking fresh and vibrant.
Our professional plant care service ensures that your office plants will remain healthy and vibrant. We provide regular maintenance, such as watering, fertilizing, and pruning, to keep your plants looking their best. We also offer advice on the best plants for your office environment and can help you choose the right plants for your space. With our professional plant care, you can be sure that your office plants will remain healthy and attractive.
See how #TeamPlantPlan can transform your space! - 0800 279 3120
info@plantplan.co.uk plantplan.co.uk
