III. BIOPHILIC DESIGN AND THE RESIDENTIAL ENVIRONMENT

As a topic that is still gaining traction in the design world, research on biophilic design is still developing. To date, there has been a small collection of literature done on biophilic design and an equally small sample of notable built structures exemplifying this design strategy, as referenced in the previous sections of this paper. While these sources explore biophilic design extensively in the way it can be implemented, most seem to generalize this application instead of honing in on a specific discipline of design. In fact, only one of the major texts explored, Stephen R. Kellert’s Nature By Design, specifically called out the application of biophilic design in the residential environment, and even this was limited to a small blurb on the applications people consider in situations where motivation and resources are available. 97 The research that currently exists is comprehensive in the evidence for the basis of biophilic design and its strategies and applications, but is seriously lacking in the specificity of how this topic relates to the residential setting.

So how does biophilic design relate to the residential setting? The answer to this question is simple: biophilic design is a necessary part of the residential environment. So much of the benefit of biophilic design is rooted in the history of human evolution and the impact of nature and natural elements on that process; however, it is also important to note that the evolution of the home is interconnected with nature and human evolution as well. When considering Prospect & Refuge, one of the Space & Place biophilic design practices mentioned previously, we can see the link between evolution and shelter, and their connection to biophilic practices in current times. When considering the meaning behind this specific practice, and many others, particularly in the Space & Place category, you are able to see not just a connection to shelter, but a connection to shelter as a place of safety and comfort: the first home. Historical connections aside, when looking at the relationship between these two things, it is also important to consider the immense physical, mental, and emotional benefits that come with being in a biophilic environment, and where you spend the majority of your time every day. Logically, it makes sense for these two things to go hand-in-hand solely because you will receive the most benefit from these practices if they are in place in an environment where you spend the most time. With these considerations in mind, it becomes clear that biophilic design and the residential environment are interconnected and their coexistence should be prioritized due to the evolutionary link that they hold and the correlation between the possible wellness benefits and the sheer amount of time we spend in the comfort of our own home.