14 PATTERNS OF BIOPHILIC DESIGN

14 Patterns of Biophilic Design is a self-described pattern book resource marketed toward designers as a way to encourage and explain the implementation of this design practice. It includes 14 different elements, or “patterns”, of biophilic design and filters each into one of three different categories: Nature in Space, Nature Analogues, and Nature of the Space. 105 Each pattern is then given its own spread in the book to analyze and explain the concept further. Each spread includes the pattern name and definition, along with a description of the pattern experience, the research and benefits, the pattern objective, design considerations, and an example description. Supplementally, the spreads include a description of the overlaps and relationships to other patterns, and naturally occurring and simulated or constructed examples.

Additionally, this resource includes a separate breakdown of wellness benefits to the user according to each pattern of biophilic design included, and filters between if it is a benefit affecting stress reduction, cognitive performance, or emotion, mood, and preference. As an example, it states that the “Prospect” pattern in the Nature of the Space category has the potential wellness benefits of reduced stress (Stress Reduction), reduced boredom, irritation, and fatigue (Cognitive Performance), and improved comfort and perceived safety (Emotion, Mood & Preference). 106

This resource serves as a precedent for the pattern book aspect of the architectural project. The thesis project will draw on the information included in the pattern spread as well as the spread layout for reference, in addition to the breakdown of wellness benefits, to provide a basis for the proposed pattern book resource specific to residential design.