Don’t be put off by the name - biophilic design is simply the meeting of manmade creation with natural flora and fauna. In an age of rapid urban development, we run risk of being overrun by concrete, right angles and cold rational architecture. Local councils try to remedy this by creating big open spaces in which we can roam, walk dogs and be part of nature. That’s why areas like Rowntree Park in York are so important; they give us a breathe of fresh air amidst the hustle and bustle of busy life.
But can we go further? Biophilic design does not separate urban and natural, but merges them together. Many argue this is the ideal future of city planning: a metropolis of green roofs, with ivy crawling across the walls and plants weaving between windows.
On an individual level, we can enhance our homes and turn them into biophilic nests of our own. For example:
Grass or ‘living’ roofs that provide insulation, irrigation and waterproofing Crawling ivy to give your brickwork that rustic, woodland look Creative vegetation; plants potted in old boots, shoe racks, wine bottles and all manner of containers, making your greenery feel spontaneous
On a local level, we need only travel to Sheffield to see a fantastic case of biophilic design in action. The Winter Garden in the city centre is a beautiful eco haven, enjoyed by hundreds of residents on their lunch breaks, weekends and for local events.
Biophilic design is a utopian prospect, yet funnily enough the same effects creep in from urban decay or depreciation. The image of plants growing through the cracks and overwhelming their concrete casing is considered beautiful by some. Indeed, many iconic landmarks are the result of nature overpowering development. New York City’s famous ‘Sky Walk’ is a subway line, now blossoming with grass verges and greenery that skirts between disused train tracks. Whether this constitutes biophilic design by nature or accident is up for debate.
