Biophilic Design in Practice: Reconnecting Urban Life with Nature

It is estimated that by 2050, 70% of the world’s population will live in cities. As urbanisation accelerates, the need to design environments that connect us with nature becomes more critical.

What Is Biophilic Design?

Biophilic design is the practice of incorporating elements of nature into our built environments to support human health and well-being. These elements include direct experiences (like natural light, plants, and water features) and indirect cues (such as natural materials, organic shapes, or views of landscapes).

This approach stems from the biophilia hypothesis, introduced by biologist E.O. Wilson, which suggests that humans have an innate tendency to seek connections with nature. Biophilic design translates this biological need into architectural strategies that improve our mental, emotional, and physical health.

Far from being a stylistic trend, biophilic design is grounded in research and psychology. It enhances mental health, supports emotional resilience, and positively impacts productivity. Reddy Architecture + Urbanism has embraced this philosophy across several projects, aligning their designs with the principles defined by biophilic design pioneer Stephen Kellert.

Stephen Kellert and the Biophilic Framework

The late Stephen R. Kellert (1943–2016) was a Yale University professor and social ecologist whose work was instrumental in advancing the field of biophilic design. He believed that nature should not be an afterthought in design but a central feature in shaping how people live and interact with the built environment.

Kellert formalised six biophilic design elements, each with associated attributes. These principles provide a foundation for creating environments that support physical health, emotional well-being, and cognitive performance.

The six elements of biophilic design

  Environmental Features

Materiality, water, sunlight, and connection to local ecology

People are naturally drawn to features found in the natural world. By complementing local geological features, a sense of connection can be established with a building’s surroundings. A sense of connection to nature can also be created with colours, water and sunlight, while well-ventilated spaces promote well-being. The use of natural materials, plants, façade greening and views and vistas all contribute to strengthening this connection.

Glencar House exemplifies this attribute through its natural material palette and sculptural references to Ireland’s terrain. Materials like Connemara marble, bronze, and blackened ash are used to echo local geology and hydrology. A striking atrium simulates a cascading waterfall using anodised bronze fins, while stair balustrades mimic the flowing rhythm of water.

Through the innovative use of materials and thoughtful design elements, the building not only celebrates Ireland’s natural heritage but also creates a vibrant and functional workspace.

Natural Forms and Shapes

Organic geometry, biomimicry, and abstraction of living systems

This attribute includes representations and simulations of the natural world on buildings, both internally and externally. This includes designs that mimic local geology or even those that “accidentally” resemble living forms.

At Aon’s Dublin headquarters, the reception desk is designed with a ripple motif that references light reflecting on the nearby River Liffey, integrating the building into its local context. In the Newmarket Yards development in Dublin 8, columns appear treelike and take organic shapes, creating intrigue and reinforcing a connection to the natural world.

 

Natural Patterns and Processes

Sensory variation, spatial hierarchy, and the passage of time

This attribute relates to our sensory experience of buildings and applies to the richness of detail in light and sound. It also refers to how we move through a space, the variety of space and how spaces within a building connect to each other. Spaces that show central focal points and passageways with clear boundaries, can heighten our sensory experience.

A sense of pattern, contrast and connection can be found in the James Joyce library which exemplifies several principes of biophilic design. The James Joyce Library reflects this attribute through its multisensory and neurodiverse approach to space. Designed with input from occupational therapists, the interiors feature:

• Transition Spaces with tactile murals, warm lighting, and grounding textures which help users to self-regulate
• Sensory Study Zones that are evenly distributed, private, and acoustically treated.
• Circulation Strategies that zone quiet and active spaces for intuitive navigation.

Patterns of movement, light modulation, and sensory engagement invite calmness, focus, and exploration

  Light and Space

Natural illumination, spatial variety, and visual openness

Light and space play a vital role in biophilic design. Natural and diffused daylight both offer significant benefits, while the use of reflected light, dynamic contrasts between light and shadow, and the sculpting of light to form visual elements all contribute to the experience. Similarly, spatial design can foster a sense of openness, variety, and balance, establish a connection between interior and exterior environments, and help define forms and zones within a space.

Four Ferns Nursing Home is a powerful example of using light and layout to foster comfort and autonomy. Its H-shaped floor plan orientates shared spaces around outdoor courtyards, allowing daylight to flood in. Dayrooms and corridors lead to relaxation areas with external views, maintaining a strong visual and psychological link to nature. Finishes and furnishings are domestic in feel, avoiding institutional coldness and instead creating a home-like, light-filled sanctuary.

Place-Based Relationships

Cultural resonance, geographic identity, and contextual integration

When people develop an emotional attachment to a place, it often inspires a sense of care and stewardship toward it. These connections can be shaped by geographic and historical context, cultural expressions, natural materials, and surrounding landscapes.

At Glencar House, in front of the main façade stands a bronze sculpture, commissioned from lrish sculptor Rachel Joynt called ‘An SÍOL’. The artwork represents a sycamore seed and links on a central core axis through the building to a mature sycamore tree planted in the courtyard. The sculpture sits in a reflective pool which is surrounded by bronze planters filled with a mix of wild indigenous plants.

Throughout the space, etched porcelain floor tiles featuring lines from WB Yeats’s poem ‘The Stolen Child’ evokes nature as a retreat and instills an emotional connection between heritage and place.

Similarly, the Dublin Royal Convention Centre uses a colour palette inspired by Viking artifacts, aged bronze, gold torcs, and etched ceramics which connect the space with Dublin’s heritage while embracing modern forms.

Evolved Human-Nature Relationships

Prospect and refuge, mystery and familiarity, exploration and mastery

This attribute reflects the fundamental aspects of our relationship with nature and how they can be reflected in the built environment. This can include a sense of safety and protection, a balance of variety with regularity, as well as promoting curiosity, exploration and a sense of awe. Humans thrive in environments that balance openness with protection. Aon’s neurodivergent workspaces exemplify this through quiet zones, adaptable furniture, and sensory-friendly finishes that allow users to customise their space and feel secure.

Glencar House again demonstrates this principle with its 360 sqm rooftop terrace and biodiverse landscaping. These spaces offer a sense of discovery and refuge, encouraging interaction with nature and the city skyline in equal measure.

The Broader Implications of Biophilic Design

Beyond aesthetics, biophilic design plays a pivotal role in supporting health, sustainability, and creativity. In workplaces, it boosts cognitive performance and job satisfaction. In educational and care environments, it promotes emotional regulation, focus, and healing. Biophilic strategies also align with sustainable design: natural ventilation, daylighting, and green materials reduce energy consumption while enriching occupant experience.

As we reimagine the future of our cities, reconnecting people with nature through architecture is vital for healthier lives and more resilient communities.