rooted in nature: the restorative power of biophilic design
platform, austin, texas
dedication to all the plants, people, and critters
our steadfast companions in creating spaces that breathe, grow, and inspire, we are grateful.
let’s all continue to learn from nature, nurture its beauty, and live in harmony with the world around us.
texas health frisco, frisco, texas
q2 stadium, austin, texas
fish camp at the groves, humble, texas
an inherent need
pg 13 benefits of connecting to nature
pg 34 biophilic design principles
pg 53 successful parks & open spaces
pg 84
the TBG approach
pg 100 practical tips for biophilic spaces
pg 130 about TBG Partners
pg 160 index
pg 162
Oracle’s waterfront campus in Austin features a rich blend of agaves and palo verde trees, punctuated by limestone seatblock walls and versatile seating areas that harmonize functionality with natural beauty. This creates a welcoming environment for employees and the local community.
oracle, austin, texas
sheldon lake park, houston, texas
all humans want to feel connected to nature.
This connection is not just a fleeting preference but a profound need that shapes our well-being and quality of life.
Biophilic design is an innovative approach that integrates natural elements into urban and built environments, fostering a deep and meaningful connection between humans and nature. This design philosophy is rooted in the concept of biophilia (“bio-,” meaning life, “-philia” meaning affection), suggesting that humans have an inherent affinity for the natural world and an innate desire to remain connected to it.
Imagine walking through a city where lush green parks, tree-lined streets, and vibrant gardens are seamlessly woven into the urban fabric. Picture buildings adorned with green roofs and living walls, where the sounds of birds and the rustle of leaves create a therapeutic backdrop to the hustle and bustle of daily life. This is the vision of biophilic design – a harmonious blend of nature with the built environment that nurtures our physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
It’s the responsibility of landscape architects, planners, urban designers, and others who shape the built environment to embrace this responsibility with dedication and creativity. By incorporating natural elements into our cities and communities, we can create spaces that not only meet our practical needs but also nourish our souls. This approach is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating environments that promote health, happiness, and sustainability.
As you explore the pages of this book, you will discover the myriad ways in which biophilic design can transform the built environment and unique ways TBG is approaching design. From enhancing mental and physical health to fostering social interaction and community building, the benefits of connecting to nature are profound and far-reaching.
easton park, austin, texas
City Place offers an immersive retreat from the downtown urban hustle, this courtyard is a restorative environment that boosts mental well-being.
city place, fort worth, texas
A timeless moment shared between a father and daughter, casting their lines into the water from a tranquil pier. The pier’s real wood material and thoughtful integration into the surrounding landscape creates a contemplative setting that deepens their connection to nature and each other.
fish camp at the groves, humble, texas
At a community in Houston, an educational trail sign invites residents to engage with the local flora and fauna. Trail signage is found every ¼ mile, offering different detailed information and interactive elements at each sign.
the groves, humble, texas
The goal is simple: connect humans to nature because it makes our lives better.
A biophilic design approach offers numerous benefits to people, spanning our physical and mental well-being. By integrating natural elements into our built environments, we can create spaces that not only meet our practical needs but also enrich our lives in profound ways. While the following list is not exhaustive, some notable benefits include –
improved mental health enhanced physical health
increased productivity & creativity
social interaction & community building climate resilience & sustainability enhanced aesthetic appeal educational opportunities
willow fork park, katy, texas
children’s garden, austin, texas
At this water cycle-inspired park, children can explore the educational components that highlight the importance of one of our most vital resources. TBG’s design features a giant berm with ripples, emulating a pebble being dropped in water, and a dry creek bed, creating an engaging and interactive environment for young explorers.
mayor vera calvin plaza, burleson, texas
riverstone wetland park, sugar land, texas
parish school, houston, texas
At The Parish School in Houston, designed for children with communication delays and learning differences, outdoor classrooms provide a natural setting that enhances their unique learning and development. The campus integrates nature into education, offering a calming environment where exposure to plants, nature, and outdoor activities supports cognitive and emotional growth.
benefits of connecting to nature
Connecting with nature offers a multitude of benefits to our physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Biophilic design leverages these benefits by integrating natural elements into the built environment, creating spaces that promote relaxation, encourage physical activity, and foster social interaction. The following text explores the various ways in which biophilic design can improve our lives, from reducing stress and boosting creativity to building resilient communities and promoting sustainability.
improved mental health
Biophilic design helps reduce stress, anxiety, and depression by creating environments that strengthen a connection with nature. Natural elements like plants, water features, and natural light have been shown to lower cortisol levels and promote relaxation. Imagine walking into a naturalistic office space where a lush green wall greets you, the gentle sound of a water fountain soothes your mind, and sunlight streams through large windows, casting a warm glow on natural wood, and stone surfaces. This coordinated blend of natural materials with the built environment creates a sanctuary of calm and well-being.
enhanced physical health
Access to green spaces encourages physical activity, which is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Walking, jogging, or simply spending time in nature can improve cardiovascular health, boost the immune system, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Picture a vibrant urban park with winding pathways shaded by towering trees, inviting you to take a leisurely break or a brisk jog. The fresh air and natural surroundings invigorate your body and mind, making exposure to nature a joyful part of your daily routine.
increased productivity & creativity
Natural environments can benefit cognitive function, leading to increased productivity and creativity. Studies have shown that exposure to nature can improve concentration, memory, and problem-solving skills. Envision an innovative elementary school where windows frame breathtaking views of a verdant landscape, fostering an environment that stimulates learning and creativity. Indoor plants breathe life into every classroom, and natural light floods the space, creating an inspiring learning atmosphere.
social interaction & community building
Biophilic design creates inviting spaces that encourage social interaction and community engagement. Parks, gardens, and other green spaces provide venues for social activities, creating a sense of community and belonging. Imagine a bustling community garden where neighbors gather to plant, harvest, and share the fruits of their labor. Children play in nearby playgrounds, while adults relax on benches, engaging in lively conversations. The aromatics of blooming flowers fill the air, and the sound of laughter echoes through the space, creating a vibrant hub of social connection and community spirit.
climate resilience & sustainability
Incorporating natural elements into urban landscapes helps mitigate the effects of climate change. Green roofs, rain gardens, and permeable pavement manage stormwater, reduce urban heat islands, and improve air quality. These sustainable practices contribute to the overall resilience of the built environment. Visualize a cityscape where buildings are adorned with green roofs teeming with native plants, and rain gardens capture and filter stormwater for onsite reuse. Permeable pavement lines the streets, reducing runoff and cooling the urban environment.
enhanced aesthetic appeal
Biophilic design emphasizes the aesthetic appeal of urban spaces, making them more attractive and enjoyable. Natural elements like trees, flowers, and water features create visually pleasing environments that can uplift the mood and provide a sense of tranquility. Picture a charming plaza where trees provide dappled shade, colorful flowers bloom in carefully curated gardens, and a tranquil pond reflects the sky. Artistic sculptures and murals inspired by nature add a touch of intrigue, while thoughtfully placed lighting highlights the beauty of the surroundings after sundown.
educational opportunities
Intentionally offering educational opportunities by providing hands-on experiences with nature is key to a biophilic approach. These spaces can teach children and adults about biodiversity, ecology, and sustainability, instilling a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Imagine an outdoor classroom nestled in a wetland area, where children gather to learn about the wonders of nature. Interpretive signage along nature trails provides fascinating insights into local flora and fauna. These immersive educational opportunities inspire a lifelong connection to the natural world.
big adventure park, sugar land, texas
Big Adventure Park in Sugar Land offers children a unique opportunity to connect with nature through play. The park’s design, featuring natural elements like log section staircases, encourages physical activity, imaginative play, and a deeper appreciation for the environment. By interacting with these natural materials, children develop important motor skills, foster creativity, and build an enduring connection to the natural world.
big adventure park, sugar land, texas
A family enjoys a stroll across the
This interactive wooden and metal
invites children and parents to create music together, blending play with auditory fun in a beautifully designed setting inspired by the water cycle.
Bridgelophone at Exploration Park in Katy.
xylophone
At Texas Mutual Insurance in Austin, the courtyard fosters relaxation and creativity amidst abundant greenery. Designed based on staff feedback, nature and modern design harmonize to meet the needs and desires of its users in a serene space.
Employees enjoy a seamless visual connection to nature. The interior courtyard, visible even from indoors, with its tall trees and dense shrubbery, considers well-being, reduces stress, and creates a sense of tranquility, highlighting the benefits of integrating natural elements into urban spaces.
A beautifully designed cascading garden restores, and a water runnel captures AC condensate for irrigation, both creating a stunning visual feature. The native plant palette and material choices seamlessly connect the indoors with the vibrant outdoor landscape, offering a calming and sustainable environment for employees.
oracle, austin, texas
Integrating park spaces within mixed-use projects exemplifies biophilic design. A family picnic highlights the benefits of green spaces that strengthen social bonds and well-being.
watters creek, allen, texas
dell children’s medical center of central texas,
austin, texas
lady bird johnson wildflower center luci and ian family garden, austin, texas
principles of biophilic design
Biophilic design principles are essential for creating spaces that not only add to aesthetic appeal but also promote health, well-being, and ecological sustainability.
These principles guide us in how to integrate natural elements into our built environments, ensuring our designs provide a deep connection between humans and nature. By understanding and applying these core principles, we can transform the built environment into vibrant, resilient, and curative places.
Core principles of biophilic design include –natural elements
natural patterns & processes
sensory engagement
health & well-being
climate resilience
oracle, austin, texas
lady bird johnson wildflower center luci and ian family garden, austin, texas
A child explores the walk-through Fibonacci spiral; this 4.5-acre garden blends play with education, featuring whimsical elements like oversized bird nests and a flowing creek with dinosaur footprints for water play. It serves as a living laboratory for sustainable landscape performance, telling the rich story of central Texas ecology and natural sciences.
The lighting design at Oracle is more than accent; by transitioning the user from day to night, it creates a peaceful yet functional environment. As evening falls, the lights become more prominent, making the space inviting and secure even in the darker hours.
oracle, austin, texas
third street renovation, austin, texas
Biophilic design principles can be applied to a wide range of landscape architecture and planning projects, from urban parks and public plazas to residential gardens and corporate campuses. By incorporating natural elements, patterns, and processes, we can create immersive and engaging environments that resonate with the human psyche.
This deeper exploration of biophilic design principles reveals how they contribute to the overall success and sustainability of TBG’s projects.
natural elements
The incorporation of natural elements such as plants, water features, natural light, and natural materials is fundamental to biophilic design. These elements create a more immersive and engaging environment, allowing individuals to experience the calming and restorative effects of nature. For instance, the use of native plants and water bodies can attract local wildlife, enhancing biodiversity and creating a dynamic, living landscape and ecosystem. Additionally, incorporating natural materials like wood and stone can further connect users to their environment.
natural patterns & processes
Biophilic design often employs natural patterns and processes to create spaces that resonate with the human psyche. This includes the use of fractals, Fibonacci spirals, and other organic shapes that mimic the forms found in nature. Additionally, incorporating natural processes such as seasonal changes, weather patterns, and ecological cycles, like the water cycle, can make spaces feel more alive and connected to the broader environment.
sensory engagement
Engaging multiple senses is a key aspect of biophilic design. This can be achieved through the use of textures, sounds, and scents that evoke a sense of being in nature. For example, the rustling of leaves, the sound of birds and flowing water, the scent of flowers, and the feel of natural textures can all contribute to a multi-sensory experience that enhances the overall impact of a space.
health & well-being
One of the primary goals of biophilic design is to improve the health and well-being of humans. Research has shown that exposure to natural elements can reduce stress, and improve mood and cognitive function. By creating spaces that encourage physical activity, social interaction, and relaxation, biophilic design can contribute to a healthier and more vibrant community.
climate resilience
Biophilic design also plays a crucial role in the resilience of urban environments to climate change. By incorporating green infrastructure such as green roofs, rain gardens, and permeable pavements, landscape architects can help manage stormwater, reduce urban heat islands, and improve air quality. These strategies not only mitigate the impacts of climate change but also create more sustainable and livable cities.
lady bird johnson wildflower center luci and ian family garden, austin, texas
Visitors explore the walk-through Fibonacci spiral. This feature, with its mosaic-inlaid limestone walls, is part of a Family Garden that blends play with education, highlighting central Texas ecology through sustainable design.
lady bird johnson wildflower center luci and ian family garden, austin, texas
texas organ sharing alliance, san antonio, texas
A wide variety of drought-tolerant trees and native grass mix was deployed to encourage species diversity and resilience, while creating a comfortable and nourishing space for humans.
willow fork park, katy, texas
south main village parks, fort worth, texas
legacy central, plano, texas
A chef’s garden was incorporated within the design of this adaptive reuse in Plano, exemplifying sustainable practices and biophilic principles, while supporting farm-to-table dining at the on-site café.
Exploring vibrant blooms, a child engages in tactile learning that only nature can provide. Interacting with real elements in nature excites the senses, fosters curiosity, and supports cognitive development. Hands-on encounters with diverse textures and stimuli are crucial for young minds, promoting a deeper connection with the natural world.
the groves, humble, texas
parks & open spaces with biophilic design principles are more successful.
Biophilic design principles have a profound impact on the success of parks and open spaces. By integrating natural elements into the designs of these environments and fostering a connection with nature, these spaces are aesthetically pleasing while also delivering tangible benefits across various dimensions, ensuring projects are a success for all.
Projects that embrace biophilic design see significant improvements in health and well-being of its users, increased market value, and greater sustainability and resilience. Those who visit these projetcs experience boosts in productivity and creativity, increase in social interaction and community building, and provide substantial economic benefits. In contrast, projects that ignore these principles often miss out on these advantages. A few ways these projects are more successful include –
holistic health & wellbeing better productivity and creativity genuine social interaction & community building environmental sustainability economic performance
rock skipping at riverstone wetland park, sugar land, texas
The tangible benefits of biophilic design extend across multiple dimensions, making these projects stand out in various aspects. By prioritizing holistic health and well-being, enhancing productivity and creativity, fostering genuine social interaction and community building, promoting environmental sustainability, and boosting economic performance, biophilic design principles create spaces that are not only beautiful but also highly functional and beneficial.
holistic health & well-being
Taking into account the whole person, mentally and physically, biophilic design significantly reduces stress, anxiety, and depression through a connection with nature. This leads to improved mental wellbeing and overall happiness. Access to natural elements encourages physical activity, which can improve cardiovascular health, boost the immune system, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
better productivity & creativity
Offices and workplaces that incorporate biophilic design see increased happiness, productivity, and creativity among employees. Natural light, plants, and views of nature can improve cognitive function and concentration. Schools and universities with biophilic elements report better student performance and engagement, as natural environments stimulate learning and creativity.
genuine social interaction & community building
Parks, plazas, and community centers designed with biophilic principles encourage social interaction and community engagement. These public spaces become hubs for social activities. Community projects that integrate biophilic design create more livable and attractive environments, amplifying residents’ quality of life and promoting social cohesion.
environmental sustainability
Green infrastructure, such as green roofs and rain gardens, helps manage stormwater, reduce urban heat islands, and improve air quality. These features make urban environments more resilient to climate change. Buildings with biophilic design often use less energy due to natural lighting and ventilation. This reduces operational costs and environmental impact.
economic performance
Properties with biophilic design elements often have higher market value and attract more buyers and tenants. The aesthetic and health benefits of these designs make them more desirable. By promoting better health and well-being, biophilic design can lead to lower healthcare costs for individuals and communities.
urban at olive, san antonio, texas
oracle, austin, texas
alliance children’s garden, austin, texas
Inspired by Austin’s endangered blind salamanders, Sally the Salamander bolsters a connection between visitors and local wildlife, promoting conservation awareness through engaging, tactile experiences.
cinco ranch southwest, katy, texas
view park, frisco, texas
The strategic use of layered materials and textures enriches outdoor spaces, heightening sensory engagement and visual appeal. These elements help establish a deeper connection with the environment, promoting well-being and cognitive development through tactile exploration.
brava, houston, texas
at TBG, we apply biophilic design principles to the planning and design of our civic parks and open spaces.
Our approach is inspired by nature, and we expand upon these inspirations to create environments that prioritize the user’s experience above all else.
Taking cues from the natural world, we craft spaces that are not only beautiful but also functional and engaging. These principles guide us in creating parks and open spaces that resonate with the community and instill a deep connection with nature.
Through the years, we’ve fine-tuned a set of qualities that have come to define TBG parks and open spaces. These qualities are integral to our design solutions and ensure that every project we undertake is a unique and enriching experience
At TBG, we believe that play is an essential component of human development and well-being. Our Principles of Play, when designed with, create engaging, inclusive, and stimulating environments that encourage physical activity, social interaction, emotional regulation, and imaginative play. These principles guide us in crafting spaces that are not only fun and exciting but foster a deep connection with nature and the community.
inclusivity
Inclusivity ensures that parks and play spaces are accessible and enjoyable for children of all abilities, increasing social interaction, and fortifying a sense of community.
Parks should be welcoming and inclusive, allowing children of all abilities to play together. This includes designing accessible pathways, sensory play, gardens, spaces, and equipment that accommodate diverse needs.
Public parks and open spaces should offer various forms of play, including physical, social, and imaginative play, ensuring children of any age and ability can find activities that interest them. Playgrounds should also consider the comfort of caregivers and parents. Seating, shade structures, and amenities like restrooms and water fountains are important for making the space welcoming for all. Similarly, biophilic design aims to create inclusive environments that connect people of all backgrounds with nature.
authentic nature
Authentic nature involves incorporating natural elements and materials into play spaces, providing visitors genuine interactions with the environment. By designing nature play areas, trails, and respite vignettes that speak to the uniqueness of the natural setting, TBG creates memorable interactions between people and nature. Incorporation of native species (flora and fauna), water features, and natural light can improve the user’s play experience while providing educational opportunities – biophilic design emphasizes the integration of these elements.
responsible risk-taking
Play environments with responsible risk-taking encourage children to engage in activities that are challenging, pushing them beyond their comfort zones, and allow them to experience apprehension followed by accomplishment, an important aspect of physical and cognitive development. Biophilic design can incorporate elements that encourage exploration and interaction with nature, such as physically challenging activities like climbing structures made from natural materials, or water features that invite play as well as secluded or hiding areas (such as tunnels and tubes) built into the topography.
productive engagement
Productive engagement involves designing play spaces that keep children actively involved, fostering creativity, problem-solving, and social interaction. A well-designed park should have a unique identity that resonates with its users. This can be achieved through thematic elements, distinctive structures, and thoughtful landscaping. Biophilic design encourages engagement with the environment through sensory-rich experiences and interactive elements like loose-parts play where children can manipulate features like sand and water. Design elements that build, change, or affect your surroundings not only increase focus but also encourage social imaginative interaction. In addition, play doubling as work builds early childhood development skills such as fine and gross motor skills, body awareness, and emotional regulation.
exploration
Exploration encourages children to discover and interact with their surroundings, increasing curiosity and a sense of adventure. Play spaces should inspire creativity and investigation. This can be done by identifying “playrooms” at different scales, incorporating topography, and utilizing pathways and planting to encourage independent exploration. Parks and play spaces can also be designed to change – with the time of day or new season – creating a sense of wonder, appreciation, and suspense. Biophilic design promotes exploration by creating diverse and dynamic environments that mimic natural landscapes, encouraging users to explore, study, and interact with their surroundings.
Together, these qualities create engaging, inclusive, and stimulating environments that encourage physical activity, social interaction, emotional regulation, and imaginative play.
watters creek, allen, texas
our lady of the lake children’s hospital, baton rouge, louisiana
Designed with tropical greenery and serene pathways, the courtyard exemplifies and relies on the healing power of nature. Studies show access to natural environments can significantly improve healing times, lower stress levels, and contributes overall well-being. This thoughtfully designed space provides patients, visitors, and staff with a tranquil retreat.
the groves, humble, texas
alliance children’s garden, austin, texas
alliance children’s garden, austin, texas
sienna sawmill, missouri city, texas
eastbound, austin, texas
Incorporating natural elements into corporate office design benefits employee well-being and productivity. Access to greenery and outdoor spaces reduces stress, boosts creativity, and fosters a positive work environment. These biophilic design principles create a balance between work and nature, promoting overall health and job satisfaction.
plaza saltillo, austin, texas
Green roofs integrate nature into urban spaces, offering benefits such as improved air quality and insulation, and effective stormwater management. By promoting biodiversity and reducing urban heat islands, green roofs create soothing environments that boost well-being and productivity, embodying the essence of biophilic design and sustainable landscape architecture.
the shops at park lane, dallas, texas
lady bird johnson wildflower center luci and ian family garden, austin, texas
The principles of play and biophilic design converge at TBG to create spaces that are not only engaging and inclusive but also promote health, wellbeing, and a deep connection with nature. These principles achieve two key outcomes —
enhanced well-being
Play spaces encourage physical activity, social interaction, and imaginative play, which are crucial for children’s development. Similarly, biophilic design reduces stress, improves mood, and raises cognitive function by integrating natural elements into the built environment. Imagine a park where children can explore nature-inspired play structures, climb trees, and splash in water features, all while surrounded by lush greenery. These environments not only stimulate physical activity but also provide a serene backdrop that calms the mind and nurtures the spirit.
bolstered social connection
Both approaches strive to create a sense of place and community. Playgrounds and biophilic spaces encourage people to spend time outdoors, interact with their surroundings, and build social connections. Envision a community garden where neighbors come together to plant and harvest, or a public plaza where families gather for events and picnics. These spaces are designed to establish social bonds and create a sense of belonging, making them integral to the fabric of the community.
By integrating these principles, TBG creates environments that are not only functional and beautiful but also deeply enriching. Our designs aim to enhance the quality of life for all users, providing spaces where people can connect with nature and each other in meaningful ways.
monarch view park, frisco, texas
practical tips for biophilic spaces
As we delve into the practical applications of biophilic design, it becomes clear that integrating these principles into our built environments can profoundly enhance the quality of life by creating spaces that are both functional and beautiful.
At TBG, we focus on three main methods to bring biophilic design to life: taking cues from nature and integrating natural elements, designing for inclusivity, and enhancing environmental sustainability. Each method is illustrated with specific examples to demonstrate how these principles can be effectively implemented.
cues from nature & integrating natural elements
Incorporating authentic, natural elements into play spaces aligns seamlessly with biophilic design principles.
_natural play materials
Using elements like sand, water, and plants in play areas not only makes them more engaging but also connects children with nature. These materials provide tactile experiences that stimulate creativity and exploration.
_sensory engagement
Natural textures, sounds (like rustling leaves or flowing water), and scents (from flowers or plants) in play areas enhance the play experience and overall connection with nature.
design for inclusivity
Inclusivity is a cornerstone of both our principles of play and biophilic design, ensuring that play spaces are accessible and welcoming to children of all abilities.
_accessible play spaces
Just as biophilic design aims to create inclusive environments, play spaces should be accessible to children of all abilities. This includes designing for physical accessibility and providing sensory-rich experiences for children with different needs.
_social interaction
Both encourage social interaction. Playgrounds designed with biophilic elements can become community hubs where people of all ages gather and interact, fortifying a sense of belonging and community.
enhanced environmental sustainability
Biophilic design and TBG’s Principles of Play contribute significantly to sustainability and climate resilience, integrating green infrastructure and educational opportunities to instill lifelong environmental stewardship.
_green infrastructure
Incorporating green roofs, rain gardens, and permeable surfaces in play areas helps manage stormwater, reduce urban heat islands, and improve air quality. These strategies align with biophilic design’s focus on sustainability and resilience.
_educational opportunities
Play spaces with biophilic elements can educate children about nature and sustainability, instilling a sense of environmental stewardship from a young age. The intentional duality of play and education helps cultivate a new generation that values and protects the natural environment.
Playing in mud and watching tadpoles sharpens sensory perception, creativity, and fine motor skills. It can also establish a connection with nature, boost immune function, and provide a joyful, handson learning experience.
riverstone wetland park, sugar land, texas
austin, texas
lady bird johnson wildflower center luci and ian family garden, austin, texas
Jumping off items such as reused stumps and blocks promotes motor planning, balance, and coordination and is beneficial for child development.
Integrating the principles of play and biophilic design in landscape architecture and related professions is essential for creating spaces that are not only beautiful but also promote health, well-being, and sustainability. These principles guide TBG in designing environments that are resilient, inclusive, and harmonious with the planet.
By ensuring a deeper connection between humans and nature can exist, biophilic design can transform built environments into vibrant, resilient, and restorative places. Imagine cities where green spaces are not just an afterthought but a central feature, where parks and gardens are woven into the urban fabric, and where every corner offers a touch of nature’s tranquility.
As we continue to face the challenges of urbanization and climate change, the importance of these principles in landscape architecture, design, and planning will only grow. These principles offer a path towards more harmonious and sustainable cities, where the built environment supports the health and well-being of its inhabitants and the planet.
Embracing biophilic design is not just a trend but a necessary evolution in how we shape our cities. It is a commitment to creating spaces that nurture our bodies, minds, and spirits, and that inspire us to live in greater harmony with the natural world. As we move forward, let us all champion these principles and work together to build a future where every urban space is a testament to the beauty and resilience of nature.
stadium, austin, texas
q2
Employees enjoy the benefits of outdoor work and flex spaces. Creature comforts, like shade, enhance productivity, reduce stress, and increase creativity when a refreshing change of scenery is needed. Integrating nature into the work environment promotes overall well-being and a healthier work-life balance.
oracle, austin, texas
skyline park, austin, texas
willow fork park, katy, texas
town lake park, austin, texas
the groves, humble, texas
texas health frisco, frisco, texas
about TBG Partners
TBG Partners is a visionary landscape architecture, urban design, and planning firm founded in 1987 in Austin, Texas. Since our inception, TBG has enjoyed significant growth, expanding with offices in San Antonio, Houston, and Dallas. Our team of over 100 talented professionals, including industry veterans and dynamic emerging talents, collectively compose, calculate, and anticipate the tendencies of living systems – and design real spaces for real people.
Our ethos transcends mere functionality, aiming for a peaceful convergence of human, vehicular, and natural elements. We envision streets, parks, and urban spaces not just as conduits for movement but as transformative environments that reflect a deep understanding of local dynamics and the pulse of culture and communities.
At TBG, we refine earth into art, allowing complex sites to evolve into vibrant ecosystems where humans and nature coexist harmoniously. Our portfolio of work, marked by projects like Texas Organ Sharing Alliance headquarters in San Antonio, Monarch View Park in Dallas, Wetland Park in Houston, and Alliance Children’s Garden in Austin, showcase our commitment to creating spaces that promote health, well-being, and sustainability.
We believe in the power of biophilic design to foster a deeper connection between humans and nature. By integrating natural elements into urban landscapes, we create environments that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also enhance mental and physical health, boost productivity and creativity, and build resilient communities. Our work is a testament to the belief that thoughtful design can inspire a more sustainable future.
As we continue to face the challenges of urbanization and climate change, TBG Partners remains at the forefront of innovative design solutions. Our dedication to sustainability and resilience ensures that our designs not only meet the needs of today but also anticipate the demands of tomorrow. Join us in our journey to reshape the built environment into vibrant, restorative places that celebrate the beauty and resilience of nature.
cinco ranch southwest, katy, texas 92-93, 164-165 city of austin planning & development center, austin, texas 61 city place, fort worth, texas 16-17 communication delays 32-33 condensate reuse 87 conservation awareness 12 corporate environment 44-45, 4849, 98-99, 120-121, 140-141
D
dell children’s medical center of central texas, austin, texas 52, 114-115, 166-167 design principles, biophilic 10-11, 24-25 dinosaur footprints 57 dog park 77
E eastbound, austin, texas 120-121, 134-135 easton park, austin, texas 14-15, 64
educational signage 20, 30-31, 37, 41 energy center, houston, texas 60 exploration 101, 103, 112-113 exploration park, katy, texas 26-27, 40-41
F
farm to table 78-79 fibonacci spiral 67 fish camp 8, 18-19
G
gabion wall 18-19
green infrastructure 48, 60-61, 146-147 green roof 125
H
heat island 42-43, 122-123 healthcare environment 106-107, 114
Iimaginative play 66, 106-107, 111, 137 inclusivity 30-31, 32-33
L lady bird johnson wildflower center luci and ian family garden, austin, texas 52, 5657, 66-67, 68-69, 70-71, 127, 136-137 learning delays 32, 33 legacy central, plano, texas 78-79 limestone 26-27, 92 log steppers 36-37, 38-39, 108-109 loose parts 110-111, 112-113 low impact development 14, 87
M
materials 70-71, 72-73, 80-81, 96-97, 154-155
mayor vera cavin plaza, burleson, texas 28-29
mini groves, humble, texas 156-157 mixed use environment 60-61, 78-79 monarch view park, frisco, texas 94-95, 128-129 multi-sensory 22-23, 68-69, 96-97, 132-133
oracle, austin, texas 10-11, 48-49, 54, 5859, 88-89, 140-141, 158-159 our lady of the lake children’s hospital, baton rouge, louisiana 106-107 outdoor learning 33
P parks 22-23, 24-25, 26-27, 30-31, 36-37, 4041, 74-75, 76-77, 85, 90-91, 110, 112-113 platform, austin, texas 2-3, 4, 44-45, 122-123 play principles 92, 94-95, 118 playground 20-21, 22, 24-25, 90-91, 110-111, 116, 118-119 plaza saltillo, austin, texas 42-43 plazas 28-29 pollinators 61, 87 principles of play 92, 94-95, 118
Q q2 stadium, austin, texas 139
R rain gardens 87
riverstone wetland park, sugar land, texas 30-31, 85, 132-133 rock skipping 85
Ssand play cover, 110, 112-113
sensory engagement 51, 52, 85, 105, 115 shade structure 18-19, 24-25, 88-89 sheldon lake state park, houston, texas 12 sienna sawmill, missouri city, texas 118-119
skyline park, austin, texas 116-117, 142-143 south main village parks, fort worth, texas 76-77 sustainability 48 swings 24-25
T
telfair, sugar land, texas 144-145
texas health frisco, frisco, texas 71, 152-153, 154-155 texas heritage park, houston, texas 60-61
texas mutual insurance, austin, texas 98-99
texas organ sharing alliance, san antonio, texas 72-73, 81 texture 46-47, 70-71, 96-97 the groves, humble, texas 8, 18-19, 2021, 82-83, 108-109, 150-151 the parish school, houston, texas 32-33 the shops at park lane, dallas, texas 47, 124-125 third street renovation, austin, texas 62-63 town lake park, austin, texas 80, 148-149
U
urban at olive, san antonio, texas 80-81, 87
W
water play 31, 105, 114, 118-119 water reuse 22, 30-31
watters creek, allen, texas 80-81, 87 wetland 31, 132-133 willow fork park, katy, texas 22-23, 74-75, 146-147 wolf ranch, austin, texas 46, 70
photographers
Andrea Calo, brava, eastbound, texas health frisco, q2 stadium
Chase Daniel, plaza saltillo, wolf ranch
J. Turnbow Photography, monarch view park
Jody Horton, big adventure park, city place, dell children’s medical center of central texas, telfair, the shops at park lane
Joe Hollon, the parish school
Nick Blok, lady bird johnson wildflower center luci and ian family garden, platform, oracle, texas mutual insurance, the groves, third street renovation, urban at olive, willow fork park
Thomas McConnell Photography, alliance children’s garden, mayor vera cavin plaza, oracle, skyline park, south main village parks, texas organ sharing alliance, willow fork park
Timothy Gormley, our lady of the lake children’s hospital
cinco ranch southwest, katy, texas
dell children’s medical center of central texas, austin, texas
