To continue our series exploring the ‘14 patterns of biophilic design’, today we talk about the last three patterns of the first category ‘Nature in the Space’: Presence of Water, Dynamic & Diffuse Light and Connection with Natural Systems.
The first one refers to the inclusion of water within an environment. People’s experience of a place is enhanced by seeing, hearing or touching the water. That could mean creating a water feature as part of your spatial design, including a small desk fountain or even creating a subtle water soundtrack in your background music.
Dynamic and Diffuse Light refers to the use of different intensities of light and shadow that change over time. It is not just about aligning your lighting programme with the times of day or even the weather, but more importantly using varying lights to create unique moods, social interactions, contemplation spaces, focus areas or energy boosting spots. Light is a powerful tool.
The last one, the Connection with Natural Systems, is a little bit broader. It refers to encouraging the awareness that a healthy ecosystem changes and there might be seasonal and temporal processes. This awareness can be enhanced through other patterns. For example, it could be achieved through thermal and airflow variability or the use of different intensities of light.
If these patterns are well applied, they encourage positive health responses.
The presence of water reduces stress and increases feelings of tranquility that consequently help improve concentration and memory restoration. Instead, the lights positively impact the circadian system functioning and increase visual comfort.
We are always so fascinated by these patterns and by the powerful impact they can have on people’s everyday life.
Author: Alice Micheletti