Why design is going back to Mother Nature

An article on Miller-McCune is suggesting that humans are switching back to their roots when it comes to building design as we area all inherently biophilic.

It cites a book by E.O. Wilson called The Biophilia Hypothesis in which the author proposes that humans seek to make their surroundings mimic the natural world.

A big part of this theory is todays penchant for incorporating natural sunlight and green measures into building design.

Natural light and an appealing view have long been considered useful for health reasons and a recent book by Yale social ecology professor Stephen Kellert underlines this with the book containing many examples of studies where natural experiences evoke positive responses in humans.

"Whether youre an investment banker working in lower Manhattan or someone working the land, nature still confers all kinds of advantages if you depend on intellectual prowess, a healthy emotional response, physical health or critical thinking skills," Kellert writes.

One example given in the book is a 1984 study where recuperating gallbladder patients took less time to recover and had fewer complications when given the benefit of being exposed to natural light and a pleasant view.

Families can enjoy similar benefits by using their conservatory to top up on natural light levels and a view of a pleasant garden will also help lighten the mood.