The industrial environment in which many children were raised in recent years has taken a backseat, and biophilic design is on the rise.
Biophilic design refers to the increase in a person’s connectivity to the natural environment through direct and indirect nature.
In the classroom biophilic design has many benefits, both to children's learning and mental well-being. It has been known to increase mental stimuli, increase cognitive ability, encourage focused attention and improve memory levels, all of these factors are sure to create a more productive and engaging learning experience. For students’ well-being, it can be said that biophilic design leads to better physical comfort and a reduction in childhood asthma and mental stress.
Although it may sound complex, implementing a biophilic design can be done in many ways and with little resources and budget if necessary.
One of the best ways to create a biophilic environment is to utilise what you already have, does one of the windows in your classroom have a great view of some greenery? Great! Use this as a focal point for an area in your classroom – this can be done without spending a penny and takes up very little time. Daylight should be abundant, so avoid covering windows with posters, artworks or other resources and let the outside world in. If the classroom layout allows it, consider adjusting the focal point so that the natural light complements this.
Air-purifying plants are another great way to utilise biophilic design and combat harmful chemicals often found in classrooms, such as VOC. VOC is a chemical found in building supplies, teaching materials, and certain paints. In large quantities, it can have harmful effects on humans. Using air-purifying plants such as aloe vera or weeping fig to improve the air quality is a way to help combat any negative effects from VOC and other harmful elements. Both aloe vera and weeping fig are easy to care for, so they last well in a classroom. Students will also benefit from having the responsibility of keeping them alive, repotting them as they grow. The plants could even be trimmed and distributed across the school as they grow. Adding plants is a simple and relatively affordable option, with many varieties accessible at your local garden centre.
If you are struggling for space in your classroom, why not look into creating a biophilic mural on any wall space you may have? Moss wall panels are pretty easily accessible and are often treated so no care is needed, your classroom can also still benefit from the air-purifying properties. Another great option is to encourage the students to create a biophilic mural, using natural materials, patterns and colours. Patterns such as the well-known Fibonacci sequence are immediately associated with nature and can be a great homage to biophilia.
Colours like greens and browns across the classroom will create a seamless biophilic environment that both students and teachers will love. Request a sample and begin developing your new classroom.