Frymëmarrje

In an increasingly digital and urbanized world, many of us spend most of our time indoors. About 90% of the population is disconnected from what has been our natural environment for millions of years. However, our internal connection to nature remains as vital as ever. This is where biophilic design comes into play: an innovative approach to designing spaces that incorporate natural elements to enhance well-being and strengthen human connection.

According to scientific research, how does nature affect an individual's ability to interact?

Humans have an innate tendency to approach nature, a phenomenon known as 'biophilia'. This term, popularized by biologist E.O. Wilson, suggests that our evolutionary history as a species deeply intertwined with natural environments still influences our behavior and emotions today.

Contemporary studies support this: 1. Reduction of stress levels. Natural elements lower cortisol, the stress hormone. 2. Improved mood. Studies show that exposure to greenery increases serotonin levels. 3. Increased empathy. Spending time in nature makes individuals more compassionate.

The reason behind these effects that nature has on us lies in our biology. In the same way that our brain is programmed to stay away from things that are dangerous or harmful to our survival and reproduction, we are programmed to be attracted to things that do the opposite. Throughout evolution, plants have been the main indicator of a safe environment and to ensure we have access to water, shelter, tools, and other forms of life. This is why we humans continue to be drawn to natural elements and why they have such a positive impact on us.

Bibliography: 'Biophilia' - Edward Osborne Wilson

But what is biophilic design?

Biophilic design is an evidence-based design philosophy that integrates natural elements into built environments. This can include living walls, natural light, organic shapes, or even materials that mimic the textures and patterns of nature. By bridging the gap between people and nature, biophilic design aims to improve mental health, creativity, and productivity - but one of its less discussed benefits is its power to strengthen social connections.

How does biophilic design strengthen social interaction in the workplace?

According to studies, people who engage in a work community feel less isolated and lonely. In our modern lives, work functions much more than just economic income, it constitutes almost most of our social connections during our adult lives. After our twenties, we spend more time with our colleagues than with friends and family, and the older we get, the more time we spend alone. Given that remote work is increasingly becoming part of company organization (massively worldwide and in its early stages in Albania), the amount of time spent alone is expected to increase significantly. Data source: https://ourworldindata.org/time-use Workplaces are where many of us build and maintain social connections. However, stripped work spaces, cold and lifeless environments typically suppress genuine human connection. To fully benefit from what is becoming a modern office, we need environments that go beyond simple workplaces. These spaces should naturally attract people, encouraging social interaction among colleagues and helping build strong teams and a healthy work culture. Biophilic design addresses this need by stimulating our biological needs, creating places where we instinctively want to be and that naturally attract us to spend time in them.

An attractive and comfortable space brings people together and shapes how people interact within the space.

In an office space, easily accessible and visible areas often promote greater social interaction. Placing key areas such as break rooms, meeting spaces, and workstations can encourage people to pass through or gather, creating opportunities for both planned and spontaneous interactions.

When spaces are designed to delicately connect people, employees' social interactions increase. For example, offices with a central atrium or shared workspace where movement is fluid tend to increase sociability. Spatial design can encourage separation (isolation of departments or teams) or integration (bringing people together from different areas). Offices with connected spaces, where employees from different teams can easily meet each other, are more likely to promote professional collaboration and social interaction. The impact of biophilic design is not limited to offices alone. Schools with biophilic elements see better student collaboration, hospitals experience higher patient satisfaction, and even public spaces become centers for community interaction.

Bibliography: "The Practice of Biophilic Design" - Stephen R. Kellert, Elizabeth F. Calabrese

By making spaces more human-centered and aligned with our natural instincts, biophilic design promotes a sense of belonging and coexistence wherever it is applied.

Biophilic design is not just about aesthetics but is a science-backed approach to improving human well-being and fostering deeper connections. By bringing nature into our daily spaces, we create environments that are not only healthier but also more conducive to social interaction and collaboration. In a world where connection is more important than ever, biophilic design offers a way forward.