Think of a relaxing holiday. It is a fairly foregone conclusion that one would have imagined a place close to the beach, or maybe a campsite deep within the woods, a place amidst the hilltops or simply amidst natural greenery.
There is an undeniable, inherent connection that humans have with nature. We feel calm, relaxed and at peace when we see sights and hear sounds of nature. Nature and its many grand, beautiful offerings have been associated with a decrease in the body’s sympathetic response, and an increase in parasympathetic response, which helps the body relax and function in normal circumstances, commonly known as the “rest-digest” response.
Living around nature
While many strongly believe that we have totally lost this connection by living in concrete jungles and have forgotten to enjoy the small pleasures that nature has to offer; however, there is no need for this to be true. Why do we presume that living in a developed civilization must mean we have no access to natural environments? The apparent reason is that open green spaces are far away from dense developments in the city, though there is no reason for this to be a limiting factor to the amount of exposure we have to nature.
Granted, it is not possible to re-create acres and acres of flat, green plains within cities, but we, as developers definitely can incorporate those aspects of being one with nature within building complexes, simply with smart design, thoughtful provisions and a little bit of empathy towards the living experience of the residents. This can include the retention of natural lakes, trees, and maintaining natural habitats of the various birds by including birdbaths and other aspects. Moreover, the inclusion of a naturalistic palette, images of nature, or shapes or silhouettes inspired by forms found in nature—like leaves, butterflies, etc. not only serves as striking design elements but also helps in reducing fatigue and act as mood-boosters.
Biophilic Design
Edward Osborne Wilson (1929–2021), University Research Professor Emeritus at Harvard, in 1984 published ‘Biophilia’ which explored the evolutionary and psychological basis of humanity’s attraction to the natural environment. This work introduced the word biophilia into the language, and has been influential in the shaping of the modern conservation ethic. An innate and genetically determined affinity of human beings with the natural world, Biophilia seems like a very obvious concept, as we have all experienced it at some or the other time, in some or the other form.
It is frequently forgotten how important our homes and our immediate neighbourhoods are to our general well-being. Especially since the lockdowns, from which we emerged with a new understanding and appreciation of our homes and the role they play in enabling us in crafting the life we desire. Designing spaces within, and around homes which seamlessly blend our living spaces with nature, is termed “biophilic design.”
A few fundamental elements of Biophilic design are incorporation of environmental elements, natural shapes and forms in architecture and landscaping, natural patterns and processes that provide a multi-sensory experience, abundance of natural light and open spaces. And this could be implemented with the simplest of actions like the addition of plants and other natural features into manmade settings to express a love for nature, right up to the extent of incorporating this into the very core of a building design. Smartly designing buildings to let more natural light in, constructing facades which reflect heat and keep the insides cool, parks and open spaces which embody the spirit of green-scapes and forests, all add up to a more delightful, joyous living experience.
The core idea is to increase the connection between a building’s residents and the natural world. Being surrounded by nature or even just watching natural scenes makes one feel better and less stressed. Our immediate surroundings directly impact our state of mind, well-being and resultantly, our overall health.
Conclusion
Biophilia-inspired homes enable physical, psychological, social and spiritual well-being. In such homes, residents are able to pass on to future generations a healthy, active lifestyle reminiscent of their childhood. Homes that connect humans with nature to improve well-being are being preferred more by customers today, since they allow for an escape from the day-to-day hustle, by providing a calming, relaxing space which they “can come home to.” By Jitesh Donga, Chief Design Officer, Mahindra Lifespaces.
