Commercial architects designing for the integration of natural materials and biophilic design principles can follow the following strategies:
1. Start with the site: Designers should explore the landscape of the site, local weather patterns, and consider other factors such as solar orientation, connection to nature, and water management to inform their designs.
2. Use materials that mimic natural elements: Architects can use sustainable, natural materials to mimic natural elements such as water, wood or stone. These natural materials provide a sense of warmth and comfort that can help people feel more connected to nature within the building.
3. Promote natural light: Architects can incorporate into their design strategies to maximize natural lighting in common areas and workspaces, allowing for greater energy savings and promoting healthy living spaces.
4. Use plant life to connect to nature: Building in plants has been known to give the building occupants an element of nature. Incorporating plants and vegetation into the building design at all levels and creating green spaces can encourage tenants to come closer to nature.
5. Simplify the design: Commercial architects can use simple designs that create a connection to nature by incorporating natural materials, textures and patterns, and elements such as green roofs, water features, and natural ventilation to create a space that is sustainable, welcoming and biophilic.
6. Encourage outdoor access: Architects can design the building to provide good outdoor views, prioritising access to outdoor views, patios and balconies so that occupants can enjoy external nature from within the building.
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