What Are Biophilic Design Strategies in Architecture?

Practical and Accessible Ways to Reconnect with Nature Beyond Simply Adding Plants

Biophilic design in architecture is more than a trend—it’s a philosophy centered on nurturing a deep, enduring connection between people and the natural world. Rather than a prescriptive checklist, it’s an intentional approach that integrates nature into the built environment to support human health, well-being, and sustainability.

At Held Architecture, we embrace biophilia not simply as greenery, but as a design lens, shaping spaces that feel restorative, rooted, and alive. Whether designing a large mixed-use complex or a small institutional project, we focus on bringing nature into the user’s daily experience in practical and context-sensitive ways.

Below are five effective biophilic design strategies we apply across our architectural projects:

1. Maximize Natural Light and Fresh Air

Daylight and airflow are foundational biophilic strategies that are often undervalued. Designing buildings to align with natural light patterns, especially the morning sun, can enhance circadian rhythm and boost mood. Cross-ventilation through operable windows allows fresh air to flow, improving indoor air quality and reducing HVAC reliance.

Case Study: At The Cannery in Salem, Oregon, natural light and passive ventilation were central to the design from the earliest massing studies—creating a community that feels both breathable and energy-efficient.

2. Frame Views and Layer Vistas

Biophilic design encourages the eye—and the mind—to wander. By creating layered views between interiors and exteriors, architects allow occupants to stay visually connected with their environment.

Simple yet intentional gestures—like placing a window to capture tree canopy or framing long sightlines—can create moments of calm and orientation. Even on tight urban sites, this visual continuity enhances spatial richness.

3. Use Natural and Local Materials

Materials in biophilic architecture are not just decorative—they’re sensory and symbolic. At Held Architecture, we prioritize materials like wood, stone, and clay that age beautifully, feel good to the touch, and resonate with local culture.

These tactile choices promote well-being, reduce environmental impact, and strengthen the connection between building and place.

4. Design Meaningful Transitions and Thresholds

The journey from outside to inside shapes how people experience architecture. Biophilic design softens this transition through porches, breezeways, covered walkways, and courtyards that blur the boundary between nature and shelter.

Such transitional spaces create opportunities for reflection, interaction, and sensory engagement—slowing the pace and inviting people to be present in the moment.

5. Encourage Ecological Awareness

True biophilic design makes environmental stewardship visible. Strategies such as rain gardens, pollinator-friendly plantings, or bioswales not only support biodiversity—they also educate and inspire users to care about their ecosystem.

At The Cannery, we integrated rainwater management, local plantings, and open green spaces into a unified system that prioritizes both community experience and ecological function.

The Everyday Impact of Biophilic Design

Biophilic design doesn’t always require grand gestures. Sometimes, it’s as simple as:

• A shaded bench on a summer day.

• A skylight above your desk.

• The sound of birds or water in a courtyard.

These small interactions with nature have powerful psychological and physiological effects. At Held Architecture, we believe that design rooted in nature creates places that people want to return to, again and again.

FAQs About Biophilic Design in Architecture

1. What is biophilic design in architecture? Biophilic design is an approach that incorporates natural elements—like light, air, materials, and views—into architectural spaces to improve human well-being and connection to nature.

2. What are the benefits of biophilic architecture? Improved mental health, better air quality, enhanced productivity, lower stress levels, and energy efficiency are just a few benefits.

3. Is biophilic design expensive to implement? Not necessarily. Many strategies—like using operable windows or local materials—can be low-cost and highly effective.

4. How can urban buildings use biophilic design? Even in dense cities, architects can include green roofs, framed views, natural materials, and indoor gardens to foster nature connection.

5. What are examples of biophilic materials? Wood, stone, clay, bamboo, and other renewable or regionally sourced materials are commonly used in biophilic architecture.

6. Can biophilic design help with climate resilience? Yes, it often overlaps with sustainable design, like managing stormwater with green infrastructure and increasing biodiversity through native landscaping.

Final Thoughts: Why Biophilic Design Matters

Biophilic design in architecture isn’t about trendiness—it’s about timeless values: comfort, connection, sustainability, and humanity. When we bring nature into the built environment, we’re not just designing buildings, we're designing better lives.