VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY
BIOPHILIA AND NATURAL MATERIALS ENHANCE EDUCATION SETTINGS AND PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT MARK BROWN CONSULTANT AT TG ESCAPES
Over recent years, there has been a significant rise in societal interest in, and commitment to, finding sustainable ways to live. More recently, in these pandemic-addled times, there has been a growing awareness of the positive impact of simply being outside and connected with nature. Using natural, ecologically-sound building materials and creating connections with the natural world outdoors are the two cornerstones of biophilic architectural design. These principles can be applied to create learning spaces that enhance the physical and mental wellbeing of today’s occupants while preserving the environment for future generations. TG ESCAPES
FC&A – DECEMBER – 2020
Biophilic design
Natural light
Before we discuss how a biophilic classroom can elevate the learning experience and enhance educational outcomes, it is probably worth outlining the key elements of biophilic architectural design. Essentially, the basic principle is to incorporate natural elements into any building (whether it be for living, recreation, working or learning) at every available opportunity, offering its occupants an opportunity to connect with nature. With specific reference to classroom design, a biophilic educational environment should seamlessly blend the work and pleasure of teaching and learning with the life-enhancing effects of the natural world. The classrooms should use predominantly natural materials, provide easy access to the outdoors, maximise penetration of and exposure to natural light, provide a healthy level of interior air quality and afford expansive views of the natural world outside. Incorporating deck areas, wide canopies and large external doors allows easy access to the outside, for both learning and play, and can be a helpful tool in managing social distancing.
One of the best-known benefits of exposure to natural light is its proven role in stimulating serotonin production. Serotonin is vital for several physiological functions including appetite, digestion and sleep regulation, whilst its psychological benefits are also significant. It plays a vital role in maintaining mood balance and promoting a sense of happiness: low levels are closely linked with depression. Direct exposure to sunlight tops up vitamin D levels (essential for healthy bones, circulation and the nervous system) and boosts melatonin production. In turn, this will regulate circadian rhythms and metabolism, which further aids weight management and sleep patterns. It is also believed to provide a degree of resistance to the COVID virus.
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Views of nature Views of nature are increasingly being shown to be a positive antidote to chronic, low-grade stress which has been identified by the WHO as one of the two leading contributors to premature death in developed nations. The second factor is low physical activity, an inevitable by-product of modern, sedentary, often screen-based, internal classroom environments or, indeed, online homeschooling.
