Enhancing wellness through biophilic design
April 14, 2025
April 14, 2025
Shanica Saenrak Hall writes about designing healing environments through biophilic principles with the Living Future Institute Australia
Nature enriches our lives with excitement, complexity, wonder, beauty, and sustenance. If the natural world has such profound effects on our well-being, how can we embed these benefits into the spaces where we heal? Enter biophilic design—the practice of integrating natural elements into the built environment. Whether inspired by the golden ratio in seashells, incorporating calming water features, or using curved contours that simulate natural landscapes, biophilic design transforms buildings into vibrant, life-affirming spaces that can support health and healing.
Shanica Saenrak Hall, sustainability project technical lead, explores how biophilic design in hospitals can reduce stress, support recovery, and enhance wellness for patients and staff alike.