Biophilic design in architecture has taken off recently as architects consider alternatives to traditional workspaces and facilities. Below, learn more about how biophilic interior design can be incorporated into any structure and how perforated metal can add just the right touch. Going green can mean more than energy-efficient lightbulbs. With the right building design, your structure or building feature can actually flow with nature. The benefits might surprise you — from better health and morale to increased environmental awareness.
What Is Biophilic Design?
Humans are drawn to nature. Even if many would not immerse themselves entirely in trees and bushes, they at least enjoy seeing representations. The biophilic design puts that desire into practice as an approach to architecture and interior design that incorporates elements of nature to create spaces that promote well-being, productivity, and connection to the natural world. In short, biophilic design creates an atmosphere that seems more natural—either by leveraging existing natural features or creating new ones. Specific colors and shapes elicit emotions associated with nature. Imagery, shapes, and overall building design can go a long way toward establishing a connection with nature.
In architecture, biophilic design can be as simple as creating more open space with natural light or more comprehensive, as explained below.
Benefits of Biophilic Design
Biophilic buildings and features are about more than aesthetics. The concept also has several functional benefits. To name just a few:
Happiness. Similarly, biophilic design can boost morale. While this is true for employees, it can also help visitors—whether they are clients, customers, or even patients.
- Health. Plants have long been a staple of doctors’ offices, and for good reason. From blood pressure to mental health, calming biophilic features can potentially improve well-being. Hospitals and medical offices are increasingly going beyond traditional houseplants and incorporating more elaborate natural features to take full advantage of the potential health benefits of biophilic design.
Applications Using Perforated Metal
Materials of all types can be incorporated into biophilic design. Wood and rock, for example, provide a natural appearance. Perforated metal is a preferred substrate for architects interested in biophilic design. Metal of all types (carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, etc) are some of the greenest materials in the world. It is an ideal material to incorporate into designs by adding a great deal of texture while being functional. Here are a few ways perforated metal can be used in biophilic design:
- Sound. Perforated metal breaks up sound for optimal acoustics, helping to reduce unnatural, sterile background noise and giving occupants a sense of privacy or refuge
- Airflow. Beyond sight and sound, airflow is felt. While windows allow light, perforated metal lets in a natural breeze. At the same time, perforated metal is used, for example, in a perforated railing system, which provides thermal variation and airflow but ensures that the change isn’t too vigorous via diffusion.
- Other biophilic design applications with perforated metal - Perforated metal can also help achieve biomorphic forms and patterns, connection with natural systems, material connection with nature, complexity & order, and more.
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Let's Perforate Together
At Accurate Perforating Company, we are a building designer’s No. 1 partner in perforated metal materials. We understand the benefits of biophilic design and can help you make the best decisions possible. Contact Accurate Perforating Company to learn more about how perforated metal can be incorporated into the biophilic design.