biophilia and its role in the human condition.
Biophilic design flies under the radar–existing all around us subtly. Now, I must be honest that I am newly familiar with this term though I have been working in the field of biophilic design on a professional level for a number of years. Before I get into what that work entailed, I want to take a brief moment to introduce you to the origin of the concept first.
The notable and well-trusted website Wikipedia defines biophilic design as “a concept used within the building industry to increase occupant connectivity to the natural environment through the use of direct nature, indirect nature, and space and place conditions”—roughly translating to “designing spaces with plants to feel connected to nature without actually being in nature.” The term coined was by the psychoanalysis Eric Fromm in his book The Anatomy of Human Destructiveness, and the idea of biophilic design has developed itself through the lens of other scientists and horticulturists to suggest that humans require a connection to other living things in order to thrive–whether it be the work place, home, or other social sceneries. Biophilic design is a concept that speaks to the very core of our human existence. We're talking about a design philosophy that recognizes our innate, primal connection with the natural world. In a concrete jungle, amidst the steel and glass, it's the art of bringing the outdoors in, creating spaces that resonate with the soul.
When I moved out east to stone-cold, concrete-made New York City from having spent almost all my life in the Western part of the U.S., I found it nerve-racking to find work in the field of horticulture, especially as a somewhat novice gardener. I started out in some rinky-dink garden shop. I hadn’t a clue about indoor tropical plants or New York native plants; and, I had no choice but to learn. So, I did. As I moved my way through jobs in the city–all in relation to horticulture by some means–I quickly found that biophilic design in New York City had gained prominence as an innovative approach to urban architecture and interior spaces, and it was actually a field of work available to me. I underestimated New York City’s potential.
Epipremnum aureum, Philodendron hederaceum
Hanging macrame wall for an office in New York City’s Financial District
I had my “big-break” in design when I started work with Jungle NYC as an installation assistant. What does that mean? From concept development to the final production stage, I collaborated closely with senior designers at Jungle NYC to help to create visually stunning layouts and installations for a range of clients. We literally created a jungle in otherwise unlikely spaces–events at the Knockdown Center in Queens, storefronts along in Soho, office spaces in Midtown. We took a space that otherwise looked disconnected and developed a way to incorporate the lushness of the outside environment in order to fulfill what we all innately need as human beings–biophilic connection. I mean I was actually working on projects much grander than what I had hoped to ever be a part of just a year before–leading the design, deciding what looked best, what plants worked, and which ones didn’t.
Greenery plays a crucial role in urban areas by offering a multitude of benefits that enhance both our physical environment and the overall quality of life. Introducing plants into your living or working spaces isn't just a matter of aesthetics; it's a delightful boost for your mental well-being. The soothing presence of greenery can create a serene oasis in the midst of daily chaos. As written by the National Library of Medicine “in a Japanese study, viewing plants altered EEG recordings and reduced stress, fear, anger and sadness, as well as reducing blood pressure, pulse rate and muscle tension.” Taking care of plants can be a meditative practice in itself, providing a sense of purpose and accomplishment to an otherwise mundane, beige life. In the midst of the city's concrete jungle, biophilic design creates environments that promote well-being, reduce stress, and enhance productivity.
Whether through lush rooftop gardens, indoor atriums filled with plant life, or incorporating sustainable materials that mimic nature's patterns, the city is embracing biophilic design to create a harmonious synergy between the urban and natural worlds, ultimately making New York City a more inviting and sustainable place to live and work. And, it's not just about throwing a few potted plants in the corner of a room and calling it a day. No, no, it's a profound appreciation for how nature affects us, how it nourishes our well-being. Biophilic design is about inviting sunlight through large windows, emulating the rhythm of waves, the patterns of leaves, and the whispers of the wind in the very fabric of our surroundings.
Design for space in Soho
Dracaena Marginata, Aglaonema commutatum ‘Silver bay’, Dracaena angustifolia
Whether through lush rooftop gardens, indoor atriums filled with plant life, or incorporating sustainable materials that mimic nature's patterns, the city is embracing biophilic design to create a harmonious synergy between the urban and natural worlds, ultimately making New York City a more inviting and sustainable place to live and work. And, it's not just about throwing a few potted plants in the corner of a room and calling it a day. No, no, it's a profound appreciation for how nature affects us, how it nourishes our well-being. Biophilic design is about inviting sunlight through large windows, emulating the rhythm of waves, the patterns of leaves, and the whispers of the wind in the very fabric of our surroundings.
