Episodes

  • Architect Amanda Sturgeon on Biophilic Design and Biomimicry

    Architect Amanda Sturgeon on Biophilic Design and Biomimicry
    Feb 12 2025
    In a world increasingly dominated by sterile, lifeless buildings, one architect is on a mission to reawaken our innate connection to the natural world. Amanda, CEO of the Biomimicry Institute, is a passionate advocate for biophilic design - the practice of incorporating elements of nature into the built environment to enhance human health, wellbeing and productivity. "Many of our buildings today are like barren tombs, where people's souls and creativity go to die," Amanda laments. Her own experiences working in windowless offices, devoid of natural light, fresh air and sensory stimuli, left her feeling disconnected and uninspired. This personal frustration fuelled her determination to transform the way we design the spaces we inhabit. Amanda's journey began with her childhood in a small English village, where she spent endless hours immersed in the outdoors. Travelling through Australia and Southeast Asia as a young adult further opened her eyes to the profound relationship between architecture, culture and the natural environment. "I saw buildings that were so in tune with the climate, responding to it in a way I'd never witnessed before," she recalls. This epiphany set Amanda on a path to redefine the role of the architect, moving away from the "hero on a horse" mentality of individual, ego-driven design towards a more holistic, place-based approach. Biophilic design, she believes, is not about simply adding a few plants or water features to a building, but rather deeply understanding the unique ecology, climate and community of a site, and weaving those elements seamlessly into the fabric of the structure. Amanda points to the humble termite mound as a prime example of biomimicry in action - traditional architecture that mimics the natural ventilation systems of these industrious insects. "It's the same principle we see in biophilic design, creating buildings that are climatically responsible and connected to place," she explains. The benefits of this approach are well-documented. Studies have shown that access to natural light, views of greenery and sensory connections to the outdoors can significantly improve health outcomes, productivity and learning. Yet, Amanda laments, the majority of our schools, hospitals and workplaces remain stubbornly disconnected from the natural world. "We've created this separation between humans and nature, which has allowed us to destroy ecosystems and indigenous cultures without remorse," she says. "Now, we need a revolution in the way we design and think about the built environment." Amanda envisions a future where forests and green spaces reclaim the urban landscape, where buildings are designed to support not just human inhabitants, but all living systems. It's an ambitious vision, but one she believes is essential if we are to address the pressing challenges of our time, from climate change to biodiversity loss. "We have the knowledge and the tools to create buildings that are truly in harmony with nature," Amanda says. "What we need now is the collective will to make it happen." Amanda has an unwavering passion and a lifetime of experience in the field, and encourages us all to create a biophilic, biomimetic future, one that reconnects us to the natural world and, in doing so, restores our own sense of purpose and belonging. https://amandasturgeon.com.auIf you like this, please subscribe!Have you got a copy of the Journal? You can now subscribe to the digital edition or purchase a copy directly from us at the journalofbiophilicdesign.com or Amazon. If you like our podcast and would like to support us in some way, you can buy us a coffee if you’d like to, thank you xWatch the Biophilic Design Conference on demand here www.biophilicdesignconference.com Credits: with thanks to George Harvey Audio Production for the calming biophilic soundscape that backs all our podcasts. Did you know our podcast is also on Audible, Amazon Music, Spotify, iTunes, YouTube, Stitcher, vurbl, podbay, podtail, and most if not all the RSS feeds?Facebook https://www.facebook.com/journalofbiophilicdesign/Twitter https://twitter.com/JofBiophilicDsnLinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/company/journalofbiophilicdesign/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/journalofbiophilicdesign
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    44 mins
  • Healthy Hospital Street – How Biophilic Design is transforming healthcare in cities.

    Healthy Hospital Street – How Biophilic Design is transforming healthcare in cities.
    Feb 12 2025
    In the heart of London, a quiet revolution is underway, one that is set to transform the way we experience our urban environments. At the forefront of this movement is Scott Carroll and LDA Design, landscape architects whose visionary projects are redefining the relationship between people and nature. Their work at Great Ormond Street Hospital, a renowned children's medical facility, is a prime example of how biophilic design can heal the wounds of the built environment."Great Ormond Street Hospital, in common with many of London's hospitals, faces massive challenges in the streets and spaces around it," Scott explains. "It's a vehicle-dominated environment, lacking in high-quality space for people and nature." The consequences are dire, with air pollution levels exceeding World Health Organization recommendations and a severe shortage of green spaces for the hospital community and local residents. But Scott and his team have a bold vision. By reclaiming vehicle space and introducing a rich, curated planted environment, they aim to create the UK's first "healthy hospital street." This pioneering approach will not only reduce harmful emissions but also provide a sensory oasis for patients, staff, and visitors alike. "We're applying biophilic design through patterns and design opportunities," Scott says. "The first layer is about creating prospect and refuge, exploration, and discovery. The second is about introducing natural sensory content, primarily through a carefully curated planted environment." The transformative impact of this project is not lost on Scott. "When you think about the impact we have and the people that we reach, this is such a fantastic opportunity to put biophilic benefits and outcomes right at the heart of people's experience," he says. But Great Ormond Street is just one piece of Scott's ambitious portfolio. Across the city, at the East Bank Stratford Waterfront development, they are leading the design of a new cultural and educational district that seamlessly blends people, culture, and nature."It's a really unique blend," Scott enthuses. "You'll see groups of school children sat on the terraces, working like an outdoor classroom, learning about the park and the environment. And then you'll have the first event that Sadler's Wells put on, with hip-hop dancers on the same terraces." As the project slowly unfolds, Scott finds himself increasingly inspired by the transformative power of biophilic design. "Every time I go there, there's something new that I see that I just find inspirational," he says. In a world increasingly dominated by concrete and steel, Scott's work stands as a testament to the healing power of nature. By weaving biophilic principles into the fabric of our cities, he is not only improving physical and mental well-being but also fostering a deeper connection between people and the natural world. https://www.lda-design.co.uk Great Ormond Street Hospital and LDA Design, Reimagining Great Ormond Street won the award for Health and Place at the Thornton Education Trust Inspire Future Generations Awards https://www.thorntoneducationtrust.org/ifgawards2024winnersandcommendations Have you got a copy of the Journal? You can now subscribe and become a member of our Biophilic Design Network or purchase a copy directly from us at the journalofbiophilicdesign.com or Amazon. If you like our podcast and would like to support us in some way, you can buy us a coffee if you’d like to, thank you x Did you miss the Biophilic Design Conference? Did you know you can buy a catch up ticket here and watch anytime you like on demand? www.biophilicdesignconference.com Credits: with thanks to George Harvey Audio Production for the calming biophilic soundscape that backs all our podcasts. Did you know our podcast is also on Audible, Amazon Music, Spotify, iTunes, YouTube, Stitcher, vurbl, podbay, podtail, and most if not all the RSS feeds?Facebook https://www.facebook.com/journalofbiophilicdesign/Twitter https://twitter.com/JofBiophilicDsnLinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/company/journalofbiophilicdesign/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/journalofbiophilicdesign
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    34 mins
  • Seeing the Light: How Biophilic Lighting Design improves Health and Wellbeing

    Seeing the Light: How Biophilic Lighting Design improves Health and Wellbeing
    Jan 23 2025
    In a world increasingly dominated by artificial environments, the importance of reconnecting with nature has never been more crucial. Xander Cadisch, head of the independent research arm Light Tribe of Phos, is on a mission to illuminate the science behind biophilic design and its profound impact on human behaviour. He explores the electromagnetic spectrum explaining how light is part of the electromagnetic radiation spectrum, which includes radio waves, microwaves, infrared, and ultraviolet. - As you move from red to violet in the visible light spectrum, the wavelength gets shorter and the frequency increases. He goes on to share WHY this is important to us when we design spaces. Xander explains how we emerged out of the sea and how our eyes still carry those salt water ducts which are reminders of where we evolved from. He goes on to explain the evolutionary journey that has hardwired our brains to respond to the natural rhythms of light and colour. "We've always had these intrinsic links to the rising and setting of the sun and all these different colour variations and intensities and wavelengths that the sun gives us at night, at daytime, and then removed at night." However, the modern human now spends a staggering 90% of their time indoors, deprived of this vital connection. "It's less than the legal requirement for maximum security prisoners," he says. This disconnect has profound consequences, as our eyes and brains are wired to thrive on the sensory experiences found in the natural world. "Light is one of the main guiding forces to the world around us," he says. "Potentially 80% of how we interact with the world around us comes from what we see." From the way certain wavelengths can influence our mood and productivity, to the importance of shadows and contrast in creating a sense of harmony, the science behind lighting design is complex and often overlooked. He cites the example of a study in Sacramento, where simply turning employees' desks to face a window tripled their productivity, with the business making an additional $3,000 per employee. The solution, he believes, lies in embracing the principles of biophilic design - not just adding plants, but carefully considering texture, colour, and the interplay of light and shadow. By reintroducing the "organized chaos" of nature into our built environments, he argues, we can unlock the full potential of our senses and improve our health, wellbeing, and productivity. It's a vision that could transform the way we design the spaces we inhabit, one wavelength at a time.www.phos.co.ukHave you got a copy of the Journal? You can now subscribe to the digital edition or purchase a copy directly from us at the journalofbiophilicdesign.com or Amazon. If you like our podcast and would like to support us in some way, you can buy us a coffee if you’d like to, thank you xDid you miss the Biophilic Design Conference? Did you know you can buy a catch up ticket here and watch anytime you like on demand? www.biophilicdesignconference.comCredits: with thanks to George Harvey Audio Production for the calming biophilic soundscape that backs all our podcasts. Did you know our podcast is also on Audible, Amazon Music, Spotify, iTunes, YouTube, Stitcher, vurbl, podbay, podtail, and most if not all the RSS feeds?Facebook https://www.facebook.com/journalofbiophilicdesign/Twitter https://twitter.com/JofBiophilicDsnLinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/company/journalofbiophilicdesign/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/journalofbiophilicdesign
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    47 mins
  • Biophilic Design: Reconnecting Humanity with Nature Through Sustainable Architecture - Nomadic Resorts

    Biophilic Design: Reconnecting Humanity with Nature Through Sustainable Architecture - Nomadic Resorts
    Jan 13 2025
    We recently published Issue 11 https://journalofbiophilicdesign.com/journal-of-biophilic-design-1 of the Journal of Biophilic Design which had a focus on Hotels and leisure and to celebrate this, we are thrilled to have Louis Thompson, Founder of Nomadic Resorts with us on this podcast.Nomadic Resorts were one of the finalists in the 2023 Stephen Kellert Biophilic Design award. We were delighted to partner with Living Future Europe to co-publish the book of winners and shortlisted entries of the 2023 Stephen Kellert Biophilic Design Award.In a world increasingly dominated by concrete and steel, one man is on a mission to rekindle our innate connection with the natural world. Louis, founder of Nomadic Resorts, is pioneering a revolutionary approach to architecture that seamlessly blends human habitats with the surrounding environment. Louis' journey began not in the halls of design schools, but in the remote corners of the Indian Ocean. After studying European politics, he found himself drawn to the hospitality industry, honing his skills at the luxury resort operator Six Senses. It was here that he discovered his true calling – to create spaces that not only cater to the needs of guests, but also nurture their well-being and foster a deeper appreciation for the natural world."I've always believed in that inherent human need to interact with the natural environment," Louis explains. "The principles of biophilic design and biomimicry have been at the core of our work from the very beginning."This philosophy has manifested in a series of breathtaking projects that have earned Nomadic Resorts international acclaim. The Playa Viva Bamboo Tree Houses in Mexico, a finalist for the 2023 Stephen Kellert Biophilic Design Award, exemplifies this approach. Perched atop a remote Pacific coast beach, the structures are designed to immerse guests in the sights, sounds, and scents of their surroundings."Our client had a very clear vision," Louis recalls. "He didn't want air conditioning – he wanted people to truly feel their environment, to smell the salt air and hear the crashing waves."Leveraging the natural airflow and the insulating properties of bamboo, the team created a series of lightweight, permeable structures that seamlessly integrate with the landscape. Elevated on coconut tree trunks and sheltered by a parabolic roof, the tree houses offer a sense of refuge and privacy while maintaining a deep connection to the outdoors."It wasn't just a question of biomimicry," Louis explains. "We wanted to create a biophilic experience that would evoke specific emotions and feelings in the guests – a sense of being hidden away, yet able to take in the breathtaking vistas around them."The project's success has been a testament to Louis' belief that the technologies we use to facilitate our lives can often be detrimental to our innate connection with nature. By embracing the genius loci, or "spirit of the place," Nomadic Resorts has crafted experiences that challenge the notion of traditional hospitality."Living in air-conditioned boxes and going from one space to another through the car-filled world, I think it has divorced people from their environment. Giving people the opportunity to have an authentic connection to the natural environment is a true luxury now."This sentiment is echoed in the company's other projects, such as the tree-top dining experience in Thailand, where guests are hoisted into the canopy of an old-growth forest on a custom-designed, cable-suspended platform. The attention to detail, from the use of traditional building techniques to the integration of local craftspeople, has imbued each creation with a distinct sense of place."We've had the great fortune of working with incredibly skilled people with fantastic ideas who have really contributed very significantly to the projects we've been involved in. It's a two-way exchange, where we're learning from them, and they're learning from us."As the company expands its portfolio of biophilic designs, Louis is also exploring new frontiers, such as the development of eco-villages and modular tent structures that can be deployed in remote locations. The goal is to create self-sustaining communities that allow people to reconnect with the natural world, not just during a vacation, but as a way of life.In an age of increasing environmental challenges and mental health crises, Louis' vision for a more harmonious future offers a glimmer of hope. By designing with nature, not against it, Nomadic Resorts is leading the charge in a revolution that could transform the way we live, work, and thrive on this planet,https://nomadicresorts.comView issue 11 Hotels to read more about Louis and Nomadic Resorts inspiring designs: https://journalofbiophilicdesign.com/journal-of-biophilic-design-1 Nomadic Resorts were one of the finalists in the 2023 Stephen Kellert Biophilic Design award. We were delighted to partner with Living Future Europe to co-publish...
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    40 mins
  • Designing for the Senses: How Biophilic Workspaces Can Unlock Human Potential

    Designing for the Senses: How Biophilic Workspaces Can Unlock Human Potential
    Jan 10 2025
    In an age where the modern workplace is rapidly evolving, a growing chorus of designers and workplace strategists are championing a radical new approach - one that reconnects us with the natural world. At the heart of this movement is the principle of biophilic design, which seeks to infuse our built environments with the rejuvenating power of nature.We speak with Collin Burry, design director at global architecture firm Gensler and Allison English, co-founder of workplace experience consultancy Aéto Strategy, who are both speaking at the Workspace Design Show in London on 26-27th February 2024. https://workspaceshow.co.uk"We are sensory beings," explains Collin Burry, design director at global architecture firm Gensler. "Designing for the full range of human senses - sight, sound, touch - is crucial if we want to create spaces that truly nourish and inspire people." Collin, who has transformed the interiors of iconic brands like Apple and Dolby, believes the workplace of the future must move beyond bare functionality to address our deep-seated need for connection with the natural world.Allison English, co-founder of workplace experience consultancy Atos Strategy, agrees. "Sometimes we forget that we, as humans, are not designed to be sitting at desks staring at screens all day," she reflects. "We evolved to be in nature, to thrive in environments that stimulate all our senses." Allison's work has shown how biophilic design - from verdant living walls to soothing natural soundscapes - can have a profound impact on employee wellbeing and productivity. The benefits are backed by a growing body of research. Studies have found that exposure to natural elements can lower stress levels, boost cognitive function and even reduce absenteeism.To find out more about both Collin and Allison’s practices, visithttps://www.gensler.com/people/collin-burryhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/aéto-strategy/To meet them in person register and come to the Workspace Design Show in London on 26-27th February 2024. https://workspaceshow.co.uk. Hope to see you there!In an age where the modern workplace is rapidly evolving, a growing chorus of designers and workplace strategists are championing a radical new approach - one that reconnects us with the natural world. At the heart of this movement is the principle of biophilic design, which seeks to infuse our built environments with the rejuvenating power of nature. We speak with Collin Burry, design director at global architecture firm Gensler and Allison English, co-founder of workplace experience consultancy Aéto Strategy, who are both speaking at the Workspace Design Show in London on 26-27th February 2024. https://workspaceshow.co.uk"We are sensory beings," explains Collin. "Designing for the full range of human senses - sight, sound, touch - is crucial if we want to create spaces that truly nourish and inspire people." Collin, who has transformed the interiors of iconic brands like Apple and Dolby, believes the workplace of the future must move beyond bare functionality to address our deep-seated need for connection with the natural world. Allison agrees. "Sometimes we forget that we, as humans, are not designed to be sitting at desks staring at screens all day," she reflects. "We evolved to be in nature, to thrive in environments that stimulate all our senses." Allison's work has shown how biophilic design - from verdant living walls to soothing natural soundscapes - can have a profound impact on employee wellbeing and productivity. The benefits are backed by a growing body of research. Studies have found that exposure to natural elements can lower stress levels, boost cognitive function and even reduce absenteeism. "It's about creating spaces that make people feel cared for," says Collin. "When you walk into a workplace that's infused with natural materials, textures and greenery, it communicates the organisation's values in a powerful way." Yet, as both Collin and Allison acknowledge, driving this shift requires overcoming entrenched mindsets. "For too long, workplace design has been driven by the bottom line, not the human experience," laments Bury. "We need to get past this idea that sustainability and wellbeing are at odds with good design." Encouragingly, pioneering companies are leading the way. Allison cites the example of Standard Chartered Bank, which has used data-driven insights to create "the world's healthiest building" - complete with vertical farms, outdoor terraces and carefully curated natural elements. As we emerge from the upheaval of the pandemic, the designers believe this biophilic revolution is just getting started. "This is about reconnecting with our roots, with what it means to be human," says Collin. "The workplaces of the future won't just be efficient - they'll be truly life-enhancing."To find out more about both Collin and Allison’s practices, visithttps://www.gensler.com/people/collin-burry https://www.linkedin.com/company/aéto-strategy...
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    40 mins
  • Charlotte Church - The Dreaming

    Charlotte Church - The Dreaming
    Dec 16 2024
    Reconnecting with Nature: Charlotte's Biophilic Retreat Offers Healing and WonderIn a secluded corner of the Welsh countryside, internationally renowned singer-songwriter Charlotte has created a sanctuary that blends the power of nature, music, and design. The Dreaming, her newly opened retreat centre, is a testament to her lifelong passion for the restorative qualities of the natural world.Nestled in the Elan Valley, surrounded by cascading waterfalls and ancient forests, The Dreaming is a place where visitors are invited to shed the trappings of modern life and immerse themselves in the rhythms of the land.Charlotte's journey to this point has been shaped by a growing awareness of the disconnect between humans and nature, a disconnect she believes is at the root of many of society's ills. "Nature keeps us in balance," she explains. "When we separate ourselves from it, we become way out of balance in every way possible."At The Dreaming, Charlotte has created a space that aims to rekindle that essential connection. Through a blend of biophilic design, holistic practices, and the power of music, she hopes to guide visitors on a transformative journey of self-discovery and healing."It's about an opening," Charlotte says of the experiences people have at the retreat. "Almost everybody that comes here, experiences some form of opening, whatever the walls that we build around ourselves and our hearts, they just start to loosen a little bit."The Dreaming's architectural design is a testament to this philosophy. Crafted with natural materials and a keen eye for integrating the outdoors, the spaces are imbued with a sense of warmth and wonder. From the cozy "Cwtch" room, with its plush sofa and rustic charm, to the mystical "Mystic" suite, with its vibrant saris and ancient-inspired decor, each space is designed to evoke a different facet of the natural world.But it's not just the environment that captivates. The Dreaming's programs, led by Charlotte and a team of skilled practitioners, are designed to immerse visitors in the rhythms of nature. Dawn chanting, dark sky immersions, and communal music-making are just a few of the offerings that aim to reconnect people with their innate sense of wonder and creativity."I think that the land does the majority of the work," Charlotte says. "I feel like when people leave, they leave with a sense of awe, wonder, the mysteries, the magic."For Charlotte, this magic is not limited to the confines of The Dreaming. She believes that the power of nature-based healing is accessible to everyone, no matter where they live. "You can go to a beach, you can go to a forest, you can go to a river, wherever you are most drawn."The Dreaming, then, is not just a retreat centre, but a model for a new way of living in harmony with the natural world. By tapping into the deep well of wisdom and healing that resides in the land, Charlotte hopes to inspire a broader cultural shift, one that recognizes the vital role of nature in our individual and collective well-being."I've watched people really connect with joy for the first time in years," Charlotte says. "Another thing that I try and instil when I'm here is that this it doesn't have to be in this place, and it doesn't have to be facilitated by very clever, very learned, very spiritual people - you can go and do this wherever you are, wherever you are."As the world grapples with the mounting challenges of climate change and social disconnection, The Dreaming stands as a beacon of hope, a place where the ancient wisdom of the land is honoured and the power of human creativity is unleashed. For those who venture here, the experience is nothing short of transformative – a reminder that the path to healing and wholeness lies not in the pursuit of material wealth or status, but in the simple act of reconnecting with the natural world that sustains us all.Have you got a copy of the Journal? You can now subscribe to the digital edition or purchase a copy directly from us at the journalofbiophilicdesign.com or Amazon. If you like our podcast and would like to support us in some way, you can buy us a coffee if you’d like to, thank you xWatch the Biophilic Design Conference on demand here www.biophilicdesignconference.com Credits: with thanks to George Harvey Audio Production for the calming biophilic soundscape that backs all our podcasts. Did you know our podcast is also on Audible, Amazon Music, Spotify, iTunes, YouTube, Stitcher, vurbl, podbay, podtail, and most if not all the RSS feeds?Facebook https://www.facebook.com/journalofbiophilicdesign/Twitter https://twitter.com/JofBiophilicDsnLinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/company/journalofbiophilicdesign/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/journalofbiophilicdesign
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    47 mins
  • Reconnecting with Nature: The Biophilic Design Revolution

    Reconnecting with Nature: The Biophilic Design Revolution
    Nov 10 2024
    In an age of increasing urbanisation and digital distractions, a growing movement is seeking to reestablish our innate connection with the natural world. At the forefront of this revolution is Martin Brown, a sustainability consultant and self-proclaimed "provocateur," who is challenging the way we design and inhabit our built environments. Speaking with Vanessa Champion on The Journal of Biophilic Design Podcast, Martin recounts his own journey, one that has seen him transition from a career in project management to becoming a leading voice in the world of regenerative design. "I think biophilia, rather biophilic design, was that sort of gateway to try attract more people and gain attention," he explains, describing how simple biophilic elements, such as living walls and textured wood panelling, can have a profound impact on both the occupants and the bottom line. But Martin's vision extends far beyond mere aesthetic improvements. He speaks passionately about the concept of "kinship," a deeper, more spiritual connection to the natural world that draws inspiration from indigenous philosophies. This shift in mindset is essential if we are to address the pressing environmental and social challenges of our time. He laments the "disconnect" he observes in modern society, where people are quick to marvel at the "pretty lights in the sky" but equally quick to discard their litter. The solution, according to Martin, lies in reclaiming our time and space, both physically and mentally. "If you're too busy to spend 20 minutes in nature, you should be spending an hour," he advises, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness and reconnection. It's a message that is resonating with a new generation of designers, architects, and urban planners, who are increasingly recognising the transformative power of biophilic design. As the world grapples with the consequences of our disconnection from nature, the work of visionaries like Martin Brown offers a glimmer of hope. By reweaving the threads of our relationship with the natural world, they are paving the way for a more sustainable, resilient, and fulfilling future. Listen to Martin Brown speak at the Biophilic Design Conference on 12th November. If you missed it you can still buy tickets to access the videos online from the website www.biophilicdesignconference.com To find out more about all the links Martin mentioned visit:https://linktr.ee/martin_brown https://www.living-future.eu/lfa/martin-brown/https://www.living-future.euhttps://fairsnape.substack.com Have you got a copy of the Journal? You can now subscribe to the digital edition or purchase a copy directly from us at the journalofbiophilicdesign.com or Amazon. If you like our podcast and would like to support us in some way, you can buy us a coffee if you’d like to, thank you xBook tickets to the Biophilic Design Conference here www.biophilicdesignconference.comCredits: with thanks to George Harvey Audio Production for the calming biophilic soundscape that backs all our podcasts. Did you know our podcast is also on Audible, Amazon Music, Spotify, iTunes, YouTube, Stitcher, vurbl, podbay, podtail, and most if not all the RSS feeds?Facebook https://www.facebook.com/journalofbiophilicdesign/Twitter https://twitter.com/JofBiophilicDsnLinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/company/journalofbiophilicdesign/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/journalofbiophilicdesign
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    48 mins
  • Biophilic Design and Retail spaces

    Biophilic Design and Retail spaces
    Oct 16 2024
    Lyn Falk is founder and president of Retailworks, Inc. – an award-winning branding, design, display and consulting firm specializing in retail, corporate, and hospitality spaces. She has devoted over 35 years to teaching and helping retailers and business professionals build healthy, purposeful and productive spaces that move hearts, minds & merchandise. Her expertise in retail design, business, science, consumer behaviour and environmental psychology has helped her develop designs that not only meet but often exceed her client’s projected goals/sales. Lyn is a passionate advocate of biophilic design. From her perspective, it is important all the time, humans are part of nature and need to reconnect with the environment rather than living in a built environment that pulls us away from nature. Early in her career she was really keen on healthy design, sustainable design and eco-friendly design and took an early interest in Biomimicry and Biophilia.In this podcast, Lyn describes herself as a long-term preacher and educator in the sphere of biophilic design. To her, "Everything is energy, even this brick building I'm in is made from molecules and atoms and energy,", and different materials like glass, wood, and brick vibrate differently, affecting our senses and well-being. She emphasizes the importance of natural materials like wood, which have not undergone extensive processing and retain their original energy. Her designs always include the immediate benefits of incorporating natural elements like plants, natural light, and fresh air into design and as many other elements the brief allows.Lyn's design philosophy is rooted in the understanding that we are fundamentally part of nature, not separate from it. "We cannot exist without abiding by the laws of nature," she says. "We've perhaps been forced into built environments that pull that out of the environment, but we're now seeing the results of that." Those results, according to Lyn, are all too apparent in the retail and hospitality sectors, where a focus on maximizing profits has often come at the expense of human needs.Lyn believes that by reintegrating nature into our built spaces through elements like natural light, plants, and natural materials, we can not only improve the customer experience, but also the wellbeing of employees. "I always say if I had to work in a cubicle, just shoot me," she laughs. “We are living nature, and we've been put in buildings that are static and not necessarily living, breathing buildings.”The key, Lyn argues, is understanding how our senses and subconscious respond to different environmental cues. For instance you can increase dwell time by having your customers listen “to the right genre of music for your target market and for the product that you're selling and your brand the right genre of music at the right volume and the right aroma, people think they were only in your store for a shorter period of time than they actually were."Ultimately, Lyn's vision for a future painted with the “Magic Brush of Biophilia” is one where biophilic design is the norm, not the exception. "Lush green and beautiful, clear blue. It's greens and blues, but all different shades, and just the depths of the green is amazing and enveloping. And the clear, deep, different coloured shades of blue that make you be able to breathe and see and there’s clarity."As the world grapples with the consequences of our disconnection from nature, Lyn's advocacy and insight in this podcast serves as a powerful reminder that the solutions may be found in reconnecting with the very essence of what makes us human.www.retailworksinc.comHave you got a copy of the Journal? You can now subscribe to the digital edition or purchase a copy directly from us at the journalofbiophilicdesign.com or Amazon. If you like our podcast and would like to support us in some way, you can buy us a coffee if you’d like to, thank you xBook tickets to the Biophilic Design Conference here www.biophilicdesignconference.comCredits: with thanks to George Harvey Audio Production for the calming biophilic soundscape that backs all our podcasts. Did you know our podcast is also on Audible, Amazon Music, Spotify, iTunes, YouTube, Stitcher, vurbl, podbay, podtail, and most if not all the RSS feeds?Facebook https://www.facebook.com/journalofbiophilicdesign/Twitter https://twitter.com/JofBiophilicDsnLinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/company/journalofbiophilicdesign/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/journalofbiophilicdesign
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    50 mins