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Design Trends

Can airports be constructed with sustainable design? We think so. Take a look.

Oslo Airport's new sustainable extension

Sustainable design is second nature for many architects and designers today, but there’s still work to be done to fully integrate sustainability into all aspects of the building world. While you may be familiar with sustainably designed offices and institutions, there are still many types of spaces that are being built without sustainability in mind, but with some changes, these environments can easily become sustainable. In this article, I’ll show you some examples of eco-friendly airports and analyze their sustainability methods.

“The World’s Greenest Airport” in Oslo is the Future of Airport Design

Oslo Airport's new sustainable extension
From New Atlas: Eco-friendly materials make up Oslo Airport’s new sustainable extension

When the folks at Oslo Airport decided to build an extension to double the terminal’s size, they called in Nordic –– Office of Architecture, a local award-winning design firm. Nordic, who had designed the main Oslo Airport in 1998, is known for sustainably designed projects, and the firm delivered. When the new extension was finished in 2017, it raised the bar for sustainable design on a large scale.

Recycled wood and steel are used through Oslo Airport
From NordicArch: Recycled wood and steel are used throughout Oslo Airport’s new extension

The extension uses green building materials such as glulam, recycled steel, and a mixture of concrete and volcanic ash, all of which are much more sustainable than traditional building materials. The structure is strategically shaped to leverage passive solar energy, and low-carbon technologies like natural thermal energy are utilized. Amazingly, the airport also uses snow as a coolant. During winter, snow is stored onsite to be used as coolant in the summer. These techniques helped to reduce the airport’s energy consumption by 50%. All of these achievements earned the airport a BREEAM Excellent rating for sustainability, making it the first airport to ever achieve that rating.

Oslo Airport is full of natural light
From ArchDaily: The airport is full of natural light thanks to plenty of windows and skylights

The Oslo Airport is one of the most impressive examples of sustainable design for airports, and future airport designers will undoubtedly use it as a benchmark. While most airports are huge contributors to global waste, Oslo’s terminal is looking toward the future.

Biophilic & contemporary design coexist at Oslo Airport
From Architectural Digest: Lots of natural materials create an environment where biophilic design and contemporary design coexist

Logan Airport’s LEED Certified Terminal is Packed with Sustainable Technology

Logan Airport's Terminal A is world's first to receive LEED certification
From HOK: Logan Airport’s Terminal A is the world’s first to achieve LEED certification

Boston’s Logan Airport was thinking about sustainability long before many others; it earned LEED certification back in 2006 when it redesigned its Terminal A. Led by the renowned design firm HOK, the redesign incorporated more natural daylight, water conservation, and waste recycling. Solar trees and wind turbines help to generate greener power for the airport, and the roofing membrane and paving reflect heat and reduce stormwater runoff.

Natural light is abundant in Logan Airport's Terminal A
From HOK: Terminal A is not only sustainable but also appealing with an abundance of natural light

HOK is no stranger to sustainable design, and that experience shows here. In addition to earning LEED certification, Logan also received the Jay Hollingsworth Speas Airport Award for creating “a positive and balanced relationship” between the airport and the local environment. Passengers can also contribute by using single-stream recycling stations installed throughout the airport, an initiative for which Massport’s Environmental Management Policy was the catalyst.

Oakland International Airport’s Terminal 2 is Beautifully Sustainable

Oakland Airport received LEED Silver Certification
From Oakland Airport: Oakland’s terminal received LEED Silver certification for its sustainable design

In 2010, Oakland International Airport (OAK) followed in Logan Airport’s footsteps and redesigned its Terminal 2 to be more sustainable. Soon after, it became the first passenger terminal in the U.S. to receive LEED Silver certification. Low-VOC compounds, conserved water use, and a stormwater treatment system all contribute to OAK’s positive environmental impact. The terminal’s energy efficiency exceeds California standards by 25%, which reduces carbon emissions by approximately 211 tons per year.

Low-VOC materials make Oakland Airport better for travelers
From Oakland Airport: Low-VOC compounds and energy efficiency make OAK better for both occupants and the environment

Looking Forward to a Sustainable Future for Airports

These airports prove that sustainable airport design is within reach. They may be the exception but are excellent examples for the many A&D firms embarking on or in the midst of airport expansion and redesign. The future is bright for airport sustainability, with more airports using reclaimed wood, daylighting systems, and water treatment technologies.

These hospitality spaces have taken biophilic design to a whole new level.

Hudson Hotel Priviate Park

Biophilic design is steadily growing as a design priority. The concept of biophilia – the innate human desire for a connection with nature – translates easily to the world of architecture, and it’s changing how we look at building design. While biophilic design has been most popular in corporate workspaces, it’s also found acclaim in the hospitality industry. Here are some of my favorite hospitality spaces that utilize biophilic design in truly unique ways.

Westin Buffalo Makes Biophilia Part of the Experience

Westin Buffalo includes greenery, light, and natural materials
From Hospitality Design: The Westin Buffalo includes greenery, natural materials, and daylighting to help connect guests to nature

In 2016, Westin Hotels & Resorts opened Westin Buffalo, a 116-room hotel, 7,300 square feet of event space, a restaurant offering wood-fired cooking, and Westin’s renowned fitness programs. However, unlike most new hotels, Westin Buffalo was built with biophilia in mind. The hotel features abundant use of textured wood, views of nature, and an earthy color palette. A noteworthy detail is the hotel’s meandering pathways; since straight lines do not exist in nature, these curved paths help to reinforce the natural connection. Additionally, Westin continued its tradition of installing vertical gardens in public seating and lounge areas.

Westin Buffalo includes a vertical garden and plenty of wood
From C+TC Design Studio: Daylight, plenty of wood, and a vertical garden make this Westin Buffalo lounge a biophilic haven

Biophilia was a priority throughout the planning process, which makes Westin Buffalo truly noteworthy. Many buildings have been redesigned in a biophilic manner, but Westin Buffalo is part of a growing number of buildings that have biophilia built into them from day one. It’s incorporating many of the concepts that Terrapin Bright Green considered in its Human Spaces 2.0 report, which found that biophilic design enhances the guest experience which in turn increases the value associated with the room cost, making it beneficial for both the hotel and guests.

Westin Buffalo hotel rooms included plenty of weathered wood
From C+TC Design Studio: Rooms with weathered wood create a contemporary lodge environment for guests

Hudson Hotel Boasts Strikingly Beautiful Biophilic Features

Hudson Hotel lobby includes a green canopy
From Terrapin Bright Green: A lush canopy overhangs the Hudson Hotel lobby

In terms of biophilic aesthetics, the Hudson Hotel is a masterpiece that includes some extraordinary biophilic elements. Most remarkably, the hotel brings the environment of nearby Central Park to the bar and lobby, where guests can enjoy a canopy ceiling. Ivy is strewn across the brick walls, and wood flooring adds an extra touch of biophilia.

Hudson Hotel's biophilic experience
From Morgans Hotel Group: The lobby’s environment molds the natural and the simulated for a biophilic experience

If that’s not enough, the hotel also features Private Park, which is part of the elevated lobby shown above. The park is designed to give guests an additional opportunity to experience nature with a picturesque outdoor terrace. This urban oasis is seasonally open during the warmer months, which improves the experience by allowing guests to explore the space in comfortable weather.

Hudson Hotel Priviate Park
From Timeout: Hudson Hotel’s Private Park is a biophilic paradise in the center of Manhattan

Denton’s Embassy Suites Hotel Showcases Biophilic Design

Denton Embassy's green lobby and vertical garden
From Butler, Rosenbury & Partners: This green lobby features a luxuriant vertical garden

Biophilic design is easily associated with upscale hotels but designers are bringing the benefits to less costly hospitality spaces as well. In Denton, Texas, guests can find biophilic elements at Embassy Suites. The hotel and convention center was designed by award-winning firm Butler, Rosenbury & Partners and weaves biophilic design throughout the building. Some of the hotel’s biophilic features, like two vibrant 22-foot “living walls” consisting of 1,752 plants, are meant to be visual focal points. Wood on the ceiling incorporates natural material and helps to soften the space. Other features, like a patterned glass wall made to resemble the rings of a tree trunk, are subtle yet nonetheless impactful.

Denton Embassy's living wall and stone water wall
From Plant Interscapes: Dual living walls flank a stone water wall in the lobby of the Denton Embassy Suites

Conclusion

Biophilic design in hospitality is becoming more common and for good reason. As Lorraine Francis of Gensler reflects, “A cost-effective way to enhance the guest experience, it can bolster feelings of community, while improving well-being and health.” The bottom line is that guests are spending more time (and money) in hospitality spaces that leverage biophilic design, so expect to see this trend grow in the near future.

Experiential design and interior spaces: The new movement that is shaping the way we connect

Trillium Creek Primary School incorporates experiential architecture

In the last several years, there’s been a significant shift of focus in building design that has emphasized human wellness and betterment. Those core concepts are the foundation of experiential design, a new and exciting movement that reimagines what good design looks like.

Architects and designers have been considering not just how a space can look better but how it can be better for the humans that occupy it. Concepts like biophilic design have helped draw attention to a more human-centric design perspective, and experiential design is part of that trend.

What is experiential design?

Essentially, experiential design prioritizes human interaction with a built environment. In a commercial context, this means strategically using design elements to elicit an emotional connection to a brand and immerse occupants in a narrative. Today, creating an experience is more important than ever before. In its 2017 Experience Index, Gensler notes that “the human experience must be the driving force behind every element of a space––from the design of physical space to the qualities of interaction, expectation, and intention.”

In practice, this can take many different forms, but above all, engagement and emotional connection are the foundation of experiential design. If a space doesn’t allow its occupants to feel connected, it’s not experiential. For example, in an office setting, this might include creating spaces that facilitate workflow and optimize emotional and physical employee well-being.

Achieve Web Design Firm Office
From Office Snapshots: Web design firm Achieve Internet uses graphics and the company’s trademark orange color to enhance the workplace atmosphere

This is where one of the big differences between experiential design and other contemporary perspectives comes in. Whereas some designers might create a space based on trends or aesthetics alone, experiential design looks at how humans will interact with the space and builds the environment not only around human needs but also the human experience. Input from to-be occupants is thus a crucial part of the process. This collaboration with occupants allows designers to understand users’ needs and expectations.

While experiential design at its core does require a deep look at how people will interact with a space, it goes above and beyond to emotionally connect people with the space. Signage, decor, and messaging that strongly align with the brand message are a few of the ways experiential design accomplishes this connection. In short, the branded content works hand in hand with the design to reflect the purpose of the space.

Twitter's London office displays hashtags and accounts
From Interior Architects: Twitter’s London office prominently displays hashtags and accounts for a holistic brand experience

What Does Experiential Design Look Like?

Human-centric design, branding, and interactivity are all vital pieces of the puzzle that is experiential design. The more connected someone feels to a space, the more they will want to come back to that space. In a business context, this translates to more hotel stays, more returning customers, and more brand ambassadors. More and more businesses and institutions are realizing this and are seeking out experiential designers to help them create these strong emotional connections.

Trillium Creek Primary School in West Linn, Oregon is an excellent example of experiential design in action. Teachers, staff, and students spoke up during the planning process to ensure the design would meet their needs for a school space that gave students a well-rounded educational experience. As a result, the final school design included elements like simulated trees and integrated play areas to encourage interaction throughout the building.

Trillium Creek Primary School incorporates experiential architectureFrom Parallel Photography: Trillium Creek Primary School incorporates experiential architecture elements that were suggested by the school and community

Another outstanding example of experiential design is Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Monmouth. The legendary firm Perkins+Will worked to create a healing environment that would be noticeably different from other cancer centers. That ethic is evident in the facility’s design. A large courtyard, ample views of nature, and clean spaces inspired by the hospitality industry make MSK Monmouth truly unique. Jason Harper, medical planner and associate principal and Perkins+Will, said, “We wanted to give patients a positive, hope-filled and humane experience at a time when they’re feeling down, both emotionally and physically.”

MSK Monmouth office designed for patientsFrom Health Facilities Management Magazine: The open, biophilic interior of MSK Monmouth was designed to optimize patient experience and comfort

Experiential design also lends itself to internal branding. This is a boon to companies who are looking to improve employee morale by creating a positive, brand-driven environment that reminds workers of a greater purpose. Shimano Cycling World in Singapore exemplifies this. An installation featuring brand imagery and a wall of bicycles connects both employees and visitors to the Shimano brand. That installation was created by Eight Inc., a leading experiential design firm. As Principal Jeff Straesser put it, “It’s more about traditional architects realizing it’s not enough to design something that’s visibly compelling. It’s about bringing all these other considerations into design experiences.”

Shimano's wall of bikes creates and experiential designFrom Curbed: This consistent and compelling branding is another way of utilizing experiential design

The Future of Experiential Design

As more architects and designers are considering what it means to build human-centric spaces, experiential design is rapidly becoming more mainstream. Design is becoming increasingly less about current trends and more about meeting human needs. When people have a quality experience in a space, they are more engaged. Engagement translates into more productive workers, more customers and more social shares of well-designed spaces. The role of experiential design is only bound to grow.

More than reclaimed wood. How these green building materials are being used today

Rammed Earth building at Edmonton Valley Zoo

Reclaimed wood is one of the most widely used green building materials for many reasons. It has a timeless look, its diverse sourcing streams provide variable aesthetics, and it adds an enduring natural look to any space. While wood is possibly the most versatile green building material, it isn’t the only one. There are other materials gaining traction. In this article, I’ll discuss a few and show you how they’re being used.

Ananas-Anam Upscales Pineapple Waste to Create Pinatex, a Sustainable Alternative Leather Product

Leather provides beautiful texture, natural appeal and speaks to quality but it comes with a host of concerns. Being animal based, leather has a large carbon footprint and production typically utilizes formaldehyde and other chemicals. Leather alternatives are usually petroleum based but Pinatex is created from agricultural waste meaning it does not use any water, land, fertilizer or pesticides. Pinatex is a durable, versatile leather alternative suitable for furniture covering, upholstery options, or a focal “leather” wall. Dr. Carmen Hijosa, Pinatex developer and owner of the startup Ananas-Anam, feels “Design is not just about Product. Design is about responsibility”.

Tamasine Osher Chairs with Pinatex, leather alternative
Upscale chairs from Tamasine Osher Design are upholstered in Pinatex, a leather alternative made from pineapple waste.

Cork – Not Your Typical Green Building Material

Cork doesn’t normally top lists of green building materials, but it’s a surprisingly useful and sustainable resource. Workers harvest the material by hand from cork oak trees in the Mediterranean, a practice that has been passed down for the last 2,000 years. Only the bark of the tree is removed, as the rest of the tree can survive without it. The cork trees’ unique ability to regenerate stripped bark, paired with the lack of machinery used to harvest, makes cork an especially sustainable material.

In commercial contexts, cork is commonly used for flooring. However, it has many applications, including acoustic enhancement, that have yet to be fully explored. Expect to see cork in more projects as architects and designers find new and exciting ways to implement this renewable and recyclable material.

Cork flooring
From Duro Design: Cork flooring completes the biophilic environment of this open area

Rammed Earth Brings Ancient Technology Into The Future

Rammed Earth building at Edmonton Valley Zoo
From SIREWALL: Here the variety of ingredients in the rammed earth makes for colorful walls

Rammed earth is an age-old construction technique that consists of compacting earthen materials like soil and clay. The result is a dense, rocklike wall that is both sturdy and sustainable. Rammed earth has always been used for residences, but lately it’s made its way into more commercial projects like the Edmonton Valley Zoo (pictured above), which boasts rainbow-hued rammed earth walls to mark the entrance. Like reclaimed wood, rammed earth brings an immediate sense of nature to any environment.

Rammed earth building
From ArchiExpo: Rammed earth walls pair well with other biophilic elements

Conclusion

As these use cases of green building materials display, there’s a lot more to sustainable design in addition to reclaimed wood. Builders, architect, and designers are continuing to seek out and develop alternative materials to reduce waste and benefit the planet, a vision that benefits us all.

Understanding the Biophilia Hypothesis

Amazon Seattle Office uses Reclaimed Wood Paneling

The biophilia hypothesis. If you’ve worked within the LEED or green design world for any period of time, it’s likely that you’ve run into this term. As intimidating as it might sound, the biophilia hypothesis is actually fairly simple to understand. And, more likely than not, you’ve experienced what the biophilia hypothesis describes. So, what is the biophilia hypothesis?

What is the Biophilia Hypothesis?

The biophilia hypothesis is the belief that humans are genetically predisposed to be attracted to nature. It states that all humans inherently love the natural world.

This idea that we are drawn to and need nature was first put forth by a man named Edward O. Wilson in his book Biophilia published in 1984.

The idea that humans have an innate love and need for nature has been adapted to many different areas of study. The biophilia hypothesis has been used to support the idea that humans are healthier when they’re connected to nature and has even become popular within the movement of green design, reusing materials, and eco-friendly architecture.

Though at first the biophilia hypothesis put forth by Wilson was more aspirational than based in scientific fact, researchers are now finding there are health benefits to being surrounded by nature. I’ll explore the many health benefits of nature later in this article.

The Science Behind the Biophilia Hypothesis

From Frederick Law Olmsted, the designer of Central Park in New York City, to Edward O. Wilson, to Florence Williams, the belief that nature makes humans healthier is an enduring and fascinating topic.

Research has found that nature helps to lower levels of cortisol, the hormone typically used to assess stress levels, improve concentration, and heighten creativity. They’ve found that taking a walk in a park and even looking at nature through a window can improve someone’s health.

Nature not only improves health, it helps people to feel happier.

Living WallFrom Architectural Digest: A living wall at mndfl, a meditation studio.

Though science has come a long way to measure and prove the link between nature, health, and happiness — most of us intrinsically know that nature makes us feel good. No one needs to tell us.

Whether science proves it or not, the biophilia hypothesis has played a role in making biophilic design, green architecture, and eco-friendly buildings more popular.

The Biophilia Hypothesis in Architecture and Design

Many large companies are getting behind the idea of biophilic and green design. Everyone from Google to Amazon to Clif Bar are incorporating nature into their buildings to help employees to feel happier and healthier.

In addition to building a brand and selling products, companies are shifting focus to creating a workplace and ethos of holistic health. Bringing nature inside has also proven to improve worker productivity.

Elements of Biophilic Design

Biophilic design can be incorporated in many ways to the built environment. You might use reclaimed wood for the floors or wall paneling, plant a green wall, or add more windows to bring in natural light.

The tenets of biophilic design are simple, just an attempt to bring nature indoors for the health of the people inhabiting the space but, can lead design to new and unexplored possibilities.

Add Plants

Whether you add a green roof, a living wall, or just a potted plant here or there, plants are an easy way to incorporate biophilic design and bring nature indoors.

Khoo Teck Puat HospitalFrom International Living Future Institute: In Singapore, the Khoo Teck Puat Hospital brings nature and health to its patients.

Not every designer can go all out like in Singapore, but even something as simple as adding a green wall can bring the outside world inside.

Green Living Wall in office
From Inhabitat: A green wall in Dubai.

Use Natural Materials

Instead of building with metal, plastics, or man-made materials, use wood. Reclaimed wood is eco-friendly and beautiful.

Reclaimed wood flooring in Google's Mountain View HQ
From Terramai: Reclaimed wood flooring and tree inside Google’s Mountain View headquarters.

Many large companies, such as Google, have begun to incorporate nature elements into their office spaces through the use of reclaimed wood accents, flooring, and paneling.

Amazon Seattle Office uses Reclaimed Wood Paneling
From Terramai: Amazon’s Seattle headquarters uses reclaimed wood wall paneling.

Bring In Natural Light

Nature isn’t just about sight: it’s about smell, sound, and feeling.

Designing a building around its location and orienting it to get maximum light and wind will not only make it more beneficial to those who work there, but also more eco-friendly. Windows let in natural light and if opened, fresh, outdoor air.

The biophilia hypothesis simply tells us what we already know: nature makes us happier and healthier. Biophilic design has encouraged architects and designers to bring the outside world inside by incorporating natural elements such as reclaimed wood, plants, and natural light into their design.

Biophilia Effect: What It Means for Commercial Architecture and Design

Biophilia example: Allender Building

Biophilic concepts are steadily making their way into popular design. The concepts can take a variety of forms as local culture, ecology, project intent, and architect and designer perspective all direct how biophilic elements are applied to a space. The research is clear – biophilic design has many positive outcomes, most importantly it makes us happier. Biophilia seeks to reconnect us with nature, and by doing so provides all kinds of benefits—behavioral, mental, and physical. Studies have shown that biophilic design improves human well-being and boosts productivity.

From a commercial perspective, biophilia is a solution for creating better working environments. Windowless offices, poorly lit common areas, and cluttered design can all have numerous negative effects on humans, ranging from sleeping issues to increased sick leave. By building and designing with biophilic principles in mind, these problems can be significantly mitigated.

Biophilic office designed to optimize employee well-being
From C+P: This biophilic office was designed to optimize employee well-being

Moreover, these biophilic principles need to be deeply embedded in architectural and design philosophies. Access to nature needs to be prioritized in order to create the most optimal environments for humans. In other words, biophilia can’t be an afterthought.

Here are some ways architects and designers might integrate biophilia more holistically.

Nature as a necessity, not a tool

Commercial designers that design from a perspective of nature can gain insight and find inspiration to create re-imagined spaces. Using nature as the design driver and not simply another tool––is a necessity. While it is important to strategically include natural elements in a way that is aesthetically pleasing, nature needs to come before design. Therefore, instead of asking a question like, “How can we complement this space with natural elements?” one might ask, “What natural elements are vital for this space?”

When nature comes first, more biophilic needs are satisfied, and the environment appears more organic. It shouldn’t seem as if nature was thrown into the mix at the last minute. Some noteworthy examples of this concept include the Google Quad Campus and the COOKFOX Architects studio.

COOKFOX Studio design with nature in mind
From Terrapin Bright Green: The COOKFOX studio was designed with nature in mind

Balancing the organic and the artificial is key

Although biophilia aims to restore a connection with nature, it must work hand in hand with constructed materials. As with any design, the elements must be in balance and have relevance. Terrapin Bright Green notes that biophilic design is the inclusion of “aspects of nature that most impact our satisfaction with the built environment.” Designers must uncover how best to implement the principles of Biophilia for each particular space.

A prime example of this balance is the Alliander business park in the Netherlands. The entire environment is outfitted with large skylights, open walkways, and ample vegetation. The natural elements and the constructed architecture work seamlessly together, creating the ideal balance.

Biophilia example: Allender Building
From ArchiNed: The Alliander building is an excellent example of the biophilia effect in action

Biophilic design must meet real human needs

The basic premise of biophilia is that humans innately need to participate in nature. By extension, biophilic design must consider these needs and work to fulfill them. This overarching need for nature can be broken down into 14 patterns, which provide a framework for architects and designers. Each of these patterns addresses a fundamental aspect of biophilic needs, and when one or more patterns are utilized in a human-created space, these needs are met.

Station 101, a multi-office building in Westwood, Massachusetts, exemplifies biophilic design that satisfies human needs. Wood and vegetation create a natural connection, while the large windows allow daylight to pour in.

Studio 101 uses wood and greeneryFrom TerraMai: Station 101 focuses on biophilia with wood and greenery

Commercial architecture has a need for greater usage of biophilic design principles. By using green building materials and keeping biophilic needs in mind, designers can craft environments that make humans happier and healthier.

This is What Biophilic Design Looks Like In Real Life

Building design allows for natural connection to biophillic systems

Theoretically, biophilic design is a fascinating concept that illuminates the human desire for a connection to nature. It has been the subject of several studies, one of the most well-known being Terrapin Bright Green’s “14 Patterns of Biophilic Design.” This analysis laid out vital concepts behind biophilic design, and I want to illustrate what some of these principles look like in action.

Visual Connection to Nature

Terrapin Bright Green defines this simply as “a view to elements of nature, living systems, and natural processes.” Though it’s simple, this principle can be immensely powerful when applied well. The Terrapin study specifies that studies have shown humans prefer a view involving a slope that leads to some sort of natural scene. Biophilic design needn’t attempt to adhere to this as dogma; rather, this preference provides a guideline for designers to consider. Using natural materials like weathered wood or stone can give a space more visual connection.

Biophilic principle: Visual connection to nature
From Archello: This garden embodies the biophilic principle of a visual connection to nature

Thermal & Airflow Variability

Adequate ventilation and exposure to natural elements like light are both critical from a biophilic perspective. Since being in a natural space would entail changes in what one senses, biophilic design should replicate this variability. Terrapin places heat and air elements in their own category, although elements like sound are still important.

There are several natural and artificial means of creating this sort of variability. Naturally, a space can strategically direct sunlight to focal points that deserve the most solar contact. On the other hand, shadow and shade, which can be accomplished organically through design, are just as essential. Artificial means may include HVAC delivery, window treatment, and cross ventilation. Often, it is ideal to combine both natural and artificial strategies to create variability, especially because most environments are unable to use solely natural methods due to impracticality.

Space shows biophilic principles of thermal and airflow variability
From Contemporist: This space demonstrates the biophilic principle of thermal and airflow variability

Connection with Natural Systems

Natural processes such as geology and hydrology play an important role in biophilic design. As with thermal and airflow variability, change is inherent in natural systems and thus a necessary inclusion in any biophilic environment. This variability is mostly organic, although there are methods of artificially supplementing the natural systems.

Integrating natural systems can be as simple as an ample view of a forest. On the other hand, it can be complex; for example, it might be desirable to control light to accommodate human circadian rhythms. It is most important for humans to be surrounded by and reminded of the cycles and systems in nature. Simulated options include the installation of wildlife habitats or aged wood with a noticeable patina.

Building design allows for natural connection to biophillic systems
From Oliver Heath: This panoramic view of water and vegetation allows for a natural connection to biophilic systems

Material Connection With Nature

This biophilic principle is one of the most flexible when it comes to design. Material connection may mean reflecting local ecology or simply utilizing a wide variety of materials to encourage visual difference, which can aid in maximizing the effects of biophilic design. Typically, colors that occur naturally (especially green) are used in conjunction with materials like naturally distressed wood. This can also extend to a textural level, such as using worn leather or stone to more thoroughly integrate natural details and satisfy subconscious biophilic needs.

Github's office includes wood and green materials
From Office Star: GitHub’s San Francisco office is plentiful with wood and green materials

Complexity & Order

The concepts behind complexity and order emerge from natural and often mathematical patterns in nature such as fractals. Specifically, a space with a moderate amount of fractal usage will keep the space interesting while not making it overwhelming. While design doesn’t need to explicitly use mathematical sequences, it’s important for a space to have a sense of natural purpose. Symmetry also falls into this category and is a valuable tool in the biophilic designer’s arsenal.

Ceiling structure show's fractal-based biophilic design
From Terrapin Bright Green: This ceiling structure exemplifies fractal-based biophilic design

Prospect

Terrapin defines prospect as “an unimpeded view over a distance for surveillance and planning,” making it closely related to open design but in a more comprehensive fashion. Prospect can be applied to both inside and outside spaces, and it prioritizes lines of sight. This can be accomplished with elevated planes, unobstructed views, and centering traffic around a central hub. Prospect is also important to allow for the best views of natural elements and systems.

Google Quad Campus shows unimpeded views
From TerraMai: The Google Quad campus has a high prospect level with open views

Conclusion

To get the most benefits from biophilic design, it’s essential to implement several of these biophilic principles. These concepts will turn a space from a nature-friendly environment into a full-fledged biophilic paradise.

How the World’s Top Designers Are Using Reclaimed Wood

Michael Green's WIDC building uses reclaimed wood as an aesthetic foundation

Reclaimed wood loans a sense of warmth, history, and wisdom to any room it’s added to. The world’s top designers use reclaimed wood to accent their designs, but reclaimed wood is accessible to any designer or architect.

Michael Green Interior of WIDC Building
From ArchDaily: The interior of Michael Green’s WIDC building in Canada

Turn on HGTV and you’ll see reclaimed wood farm tables on Fixer Upper and reclaimed wood paneling added to treehouses on Treehouse Masters. Some designers are also pushing the limits by using reclaimed wood to build wooden office buildings.

Because of its aesthetic qualities and sustainability, reclaimed wood has become a staple in the designs of the some the world’s top designers. Reclaimed wood is also versatile. Many designers use it as flooring, wall paneling, outdoor siding, and to build furniture.

Here’s how the world’s top designers are using reclaimed wood.

Reclaimed Wood As Used By Michael Green

Reclaimed wood carries its history on every panel, each scratch and scar, each stain from its previous life, and the markings created through natural weathering. If only it could speak, just imagine the stories it would tell.

Wood Facade Michael Green T3 Building
From dezeen: The facade of Michael Green’s T3 building.

The mountain pine beetle has devastated and killed millions of acres of pines in the northwestern United States and Canada. Luckily, these trees have found a new life in the form of a wooden skyscraper built by Michael Green.

The T3 building is a 7-story tall skyscraper built entirely of wood, mostly pine. Many designers are touting the benefit of building with wood. The production of beams uses less energy than manufacturing concrete and steel and wood naturally absorbs carbon.

Reclaimed Wood As Used By Robin Guenther

Reclaimed wood is so beautiful that it really can be used anywhere, from the floors, to the walls, to the ceilings.

Robin Guenther is a renowned architect and leading expert in sustainable healthcare design. She promotes the idea that we can design healthier, more healing buildings.

Robin Guenther Reclaimed Wood Slats at Packard Children's Hospital
From Stanford children’s Hospital: Reclaimed redwood slats surround the elevator bay at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford.

Reclaimed wood comes in many different textures and colors making it the perfect material for adding subtle color to walls. The elevator bay at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital at Stanford is covered in redwood slat reclaimed from Moffett Field hangar in Mountain View. The wood was milled in the 1920s and was discovered the hangar was being demolished.

Reclaimed Wood As Used by Clodagh

Clodagh’s trademark says it all: “life-enhancing minimalism.” The designer focuses on creating blissful serenity with her designs. She adds life and texture to each space, often using reclaimed wood to add warmth to her minimalist designs.

Clodagh Wood Front Desk Design
From Clodagh: The front desk at 295 Park Avenue South

Whether she’s redesigning the entrance and lobby of an apartment building in New York or incorporating the idea of biophilia into her design for a spa space—reclaimed wood plays a natural role.

Clodagh Slatted Wood Floors
From Clodagh: Slatted reclaimed teak wood floors at the Kohler country Spa

Reclaimed wood retains its strength and beauty even with age. Some designers even argue that its age makes it more beautiful. Reclaimed teak flooring and paneling is a sustainable and aesthetically pleasing material to use for any custom design.

Reclaimed wood not only looks gorgeous, it’s also more sustainable and eco-friendly than using new wood. Now that you’re inspired by the designs of these top designers, how will you incorporate reclaimed wood into your next project?

How Biophilic Design Is Making Humans Happier

Clif Bar HQ is resplendent with biophilic design

The great designer Frank Lloyd Wright once said, “I go to nature every day for inspiration in the day’s work. I follow in building the principles which nature has used in its domain.” That’s exactly the ethos of biophilic design. Biophilic design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also mentally beneficial. It’s an important concept for anyone interested in design or architecture to understand and implement.

Biophilic design at Genzyme Building
From Metropolis: Biophilic design in action in the Genzyme Building in Cambridge, MA

The History of Biophilic Design

By now, biophilic design has become rather mainstream. More and more designers are integrating elements like wood, natural lighting, plants, and water. However, to truly understand the myriad applications of biophilic design, it’s crucial to understand its history and its philosophies. Metropolis Magazine says that “biophilic design seeks to connect our inherent need to affiliate with nature in the modern built environment.” Basically, it aims to include natural elements into contemporary architecture.

This integrated garden utilizes biophiliac principles
From EcoBuilding Pulse: This integrated garden utilizes biophiliac principles

The concept was introduced by E.O. Wilson in his 1984 book Biophilia. Wilson, a renowned biologist and University Research Professor Emeritus at Harvard, outlined a fundamental tendency of human beings to be attracted to nature and emulate its processes and structures in everyday life. This is the basic idea that underlies biophilic design. The goal is to satisfy this biophilia by creating architecture that is an extension of nature.

open office that appeals to biophilia
From Glumac: A wide, open office that appeals to biophilia

While biophilic design has quickly risen to prominence in recent years for its broad aesthetic appeal, it also provides mental and psychological benefits that have been well documented in various studies. Biophilic design is especially important when designing spaces that people will spend large amounts of time in, such as a corporate office or classroom. Even though the concept of biophilia is relatively new, there has already been a good amount of research that affirms its claims of making humans happier.

A Natural Happiness

One of the more interesting hypotheses that some advocates of biophilia assume is that humans have developed a lifestyle that is too far removed from what could be considered natural. Therefore, biophilic design can foster happiness and well-being. This hypothesis has been observed and confirmed in several studies.

Clif Bar HQ is resplendent with biophilic design
From TerraMai: The Clif Bar HQ is resplendent with biophilic design

One 2011 study from the Journal of Happiness Studies found that psychological health is linked to nature relatedness (NR). According to the study, “changes in NR mediate the relationship between environmental education and changes in vitality.” This study built upon a previous one from the same journal that cemented the connection between biophilia and mental health. This earlier study posited that the cultural and technological changes brought about by industrialization have caused negative psychological effects. The corollary, then, is that biophilic design can assist in remedying these drawbacks.

The Benefits of Biophilic Design

Biophilic design, whether implemented in the workplace or a public area, has immense benefits that range from improvement in job performance to lower blood pressure. A global study by Human Spaces shared that employees who work in environments with natural elements have a 15% higher level of well-being and are 6% more productive. It seems that biophilic design is a boon to the workplace in particular; the BBC reported that one call center that rearranged its layout to give employees a better view of vegetation enjoyed an annual productivity savings that worked out to an average $2,990 per employee.

 

Specifically, there seem to be three main factors at work here: natural light, ventilation, and quality of view. A study by the California Energy Commission correlated an increase in these elements to improved performance. In any kind of space that utilizes biophilic design, you’ll find all three in abundance, so it’s safe to say they can be used as a list of vital criteria when evaluating an environment. These elements are often associated with minimalistic design, and while biophilic design works hand in hand with minimalist concepts, it can be used in all kinds of spaces.

Priceline’s office showcases biophilic design
From TerraMai: Priceline’s office showcases biophilic design

One of the best features of biophilic design is its flexibility in scale. A room or building doesn’t need to be completely remodeled to feature a massive garden; positive health effects can happen by making small changes. Simply introducing more plants into an office space has been found to increase productivity by 15%. Nonetheless, design that is inherently biophilic (rather than biophilic principles applied to existing environments) helps to maximize health benefits. Additionally, biophilic design can be applied to outside spaces as well.

large scale biophilic design
From Icarus Films: An excellent example of large scale biophilic design

Conclusion

Biophiliac design is becoming more common thanks to its positive effects on human well-being, and it will likely become a standard for design in the future. Understanding and implementing biophilic principles are essential to creating environments that are ideal for humans.

Check out how rustic wood paneling for walls brings a modern flair to these 12 trendy spaces.

Exposed brick and rustic wood paneling in restuarant

Sometimes, contemporary design can suffer from appearing cold and clinical. If you’ve ever visited an intensely minimalist place, it may have rubbed you the wrong way, and that’s something psychologists are studying. But this problem is easily solved by adding some vibrancy, and one great way to add vibrancy to a space is to use rustic wood paneling for walls. Here are 12 remarkable examples of rustic wood paneling in use.

1. Rustic wood paneling brings complementary warmth to this pizza restaurant.

Rustic wood paneling adds warmth in pizza restaurant

When you think about pizza, you probably think of warmth, whether that’s the warmth of the pizza itself or even the colors. The pizza restaurant pictured above has done a great job of imbuing that warmth into the atmosphere, using rustic wood paneling around the pizza ovens. The darker paneling also complements the lighter wooden tabletops and the exposed lighting for a rural yet modern setting. While the rustic wood paneling is a focal point, it isn’t distracting. Instead, it balances the space by offering contrast and color.

2. Exposed brick and rustic wood paneling provide a one-two visual punch to this restaurant.

Exposed brick and rustic wood paneling in restuarant
A combination of exposed brick and rustic wood paneling

While exposed brick has surged in popularity recently, it’s a timeless style that’s been around for ages. Sometimes, exposed brickwork can make a space feel more like a warehouse, which isn’t always desirable. Here’s one solution to that problem. This restaurant pairs brick and rustic wood paneling to create a brilliant form of contrast that keeps the space cozy.

3. In this store, rustic wood paneling serves the space.

Rustic wood paneling gives this store an outdoorsy feel
Rustic wood paneling gives this store an outdoorsy feel

Rustic wood paneling is great, but it can tend to dominate a space if there’s a lot of it. This store uses rustic wood to frame the store and create a noticeable entrance to another part of the building. The “Fit Studio” sign integrated into the wood is a nice eye-catching touch.

4. This coffee shop strikes a balance of rustic and contemporary design.

Coffee shop with rustic wood paneling
This bakery/coffee shop from British Columbia is resplendent with rustic wood paneling

You’ve probably seen a thousand coffee shops that look something like this and for good reason––this industrial look makes for a great design. But what makes it so great? It’s all in the way the reclaimed, naturally distressed wood and the bright ambiance go hand in hand. The various shades of the rustic wood add even more visual interest.

5. This restaurant’s rustic wood paneling is simple and trendy.

Rustic wood complementing refined tile
Rustic wood complementing refined tile

Here’s a great example of a more minimalist approach to rustic wood paneling for walls. The focal point of this space is the bright red and white tile, and the rustic wood is used sparingly so it doesn’t look out of place. The takeaway: A little bit of rustic wood goes nicely with retro design.

6. This office entrance is hard to miss.

Conference room rustic wood entrance
Rustic wood provides a striking entrance to this office space

Office design is serious business. This simple office entryway works like a charm in the surrounding (and more traditional) setting. A 2006 Canadian study found that wooden decor can create a positive atmosphere, and that principle is at work here. The diagonal slant of the wood paneling isn’t obvious, but it lends a unique appearance.

7. This comfy coffee shop uses the power of reclaimed rustic wood.

Cozy coffee shop with rustic wood walls
Rustic wood paneling and simple furniture make this coffee shop nice and homey

Reclaimed wood paneling is a category all its own. It’s often used to give a pastoral feel, and this coffee shop is a prime example. The naturally distressed wood paneling has its own personality and makes this room feel like a woodside cabin.

8. Rustic wood paneling is the focus in this seating area.

Multi-dimensional rustic jakarta wood paneling
This seating area uses multi dimensional rustic wood paneling for a dramatic effect

Similar to the Dallas Amazon office, this space uses raised wood paneling. This is a great idea if you want to use rustic wood paneling but don’t want the typical rustic look. This room is delightfully modern and memorable.

9. This restaurant goes for a farmhouse look with reclaimed wood from an old barn.

Restaurant with rustic wood paneling
This Quebec restaurant is a fine example of rustic wood paneling done well

This room feels like both a quaint shed and a trendy restaurant. Structures like barns have become sources of inspiration for today’s design because of their simplicity. This room embodies that simplicity while adding little pops of flair like the flowers to change things up.

10. Simple rustic wood paneling brings verve to this room.

Multi-dimensional wood wall paneling
This room utilizes eye-catching, multi-colored rustic wood paneling

This use of paneling is straightforward and highly effective. The range in lightness makes the wall more interesting than it would be if it bore regular wood paneling. Similar to Dirty Face wood, this kind of paneling is great for spicing up a room.

11. Minimally rustic wood makes for a clean space.

Slightly rustic wood paneling in office
In this office space, a little rustic wood paneling goes a long way

Many of the types of rustic wood paneling I’ve showcased here have been very worn and character-rich. Sometimes, a less obviously rustic paneling is a better choice. This office’s paneling can be considered rustic but not noticeably so. It’s just distressed enough, and it makes the office look very neat and clean.

12. Rustic wood even works in a basketball court.

Rustic wood paneling basketball court
This proves that rustic wood paneling and basketball can go together seamlessly.

This is somewhat of an odd match, but it works extremely well. The walls of this basketball court are outfitted with a rich reddish wood paneling that mixes the urban influences of basketball with the bucolic feel of rustic wood.

Conclusion

Rustic wood paneling can take an already trendy space and step it up a notch. Restaurants, coffee shops, offices, and many more types of areas can all benefit from a little rustic wood. If you’re going for that countryside-meets-contemporary aesthetic, look no further.

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