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LIVING WITH N AT U R E Biophi lic Desig n; not just a few pot pla nts
With Rainey Petrie Architecture C h a n ge s fo r c e d u p o n u s a l l by t h e p a n d e m i c h ave p r o mp t e d m a ny o f u s t o r e f r a m e o u r v a l u e s a n d p r i o r i t i s e a m o r e p hys i c a l c o n n e c t i o n w i t h n a t u r e . B u t w h i l s t t h e r e i s a c u r r e n t ( a n d we l c o m e ) s u rge in the inclusion of plants in our interiors, there a r e a h u ge r a n ge o f n a t u r a l m a t e r i a l s , fo r m s , p a t t e r n s , s m e l l s , s o u n d s a n d m ove m e n t t h a t c a n e s t a b l i s h fe e l i n g s o f i mp r ove d we l l b e i n g .
Unexpected: Don’t be afraid to avoid the obvious
B ‘Silvanus’ features natural forms and patterns
Frame your environment and invite the outside in
iophilic design – the intentional inclusion of green and growing, light, water and natural materials into a building or space – is proven to positively affect mood, concentration, productivity, and memory. As architects, we see biophilic opportunities everywhere. By purposefully ‘designing in’ a connection to nature, we aim to create spaces where constructed elements seamlessly fuse with natural elements to reduce their impact. It doesn’t have to be complicated – here are just some of the simple steps you can take to incorporate the principles of biophilic design in your home or workplace.
• Enhance your visual connection to nature – make green and blue space views a focal point • Consider all the senses: from sounds and smells to taste and touch • Expect the unexpected: allow for unpredictable and nonrhythmic sensory experiences in lighting, airflow, or motion • Reference nature through the contours and patterns of biomorphic forms in your choice of sculpture or artwork, like ‘Silvanus’ by Island artist Freya Purdue • The presence of water in any space can be stimulating, calming, or both
For more information about incorporating Biophilic design into your architectural project, visit www.raineypetrie.com Instagram: @raineypetrie September and October 2021
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