Back to the overview
Biophilic Design with OpenCeilings
Let's start with a brief description of what biophilic design actually is. The design approach involves incorporating natural components like light, water, plants, and natural materials into buildings and interiors. The principle is founded on the idea that connection to nature is vital for our health and well-being.
Principles of Biophilic Design
Several core principles underpin biophilic design, including:
Natural Light: Maximizing natural light through windows, skylights, or advanced lighting technologies enhances mood and health.
Natural Materials: Using materials such as wood, stone, and bamboo strengthens our connection with nature and creates a calming environment.
Plants and Water: Integrating plant life and water features purifies the air, reduces stress, and increases satisfaction and tranquility.
Health and Well-Being: Natural elements in design reduce stress and promote faster recovery in healthcare settings, while also improving overall satisfaction at the workplace and even reducing absenteeism. Intriguing research on the impact of biophilic design in healthcare settings can be found here.
Increased Productivity and Concentration: In work environments, natural settings have been shown to enhance mental focus and productivity.
Aesthetic and Functional Value: In both healthcare and work environments, biophilic design increases visual appeal and contributes to a positive image.
An innovative application within biophilic design are the illuminated photo panels from OpenCeilings. These ceiling and window panels can be particularly effective in spaces without direct access to natural light or nature. OpenCeilings panels use high-resolution photos of natural scenes, such as a sky with blossoming tree branches, combined with custom-developed LED panels that simulate natural daylight. The OpenWindow panels can create any desired high-resolution view. Both applications contribute to the illusion of an open space and natural view, which can help reduce stress and increase overall well-being in both healthcare and work environments. Increasing research supports the notion that even the view of nature photos can have a significant positive impact on human well-being. One of the studies describing this is available here.
By combining biophilic design with OpenCeilings' biodynamic LED lighting, an environment can even be created that mimics and adapts to the circadian rhythms of the sun and the human biological clock. In healthcare settings, this can contribute to a calming atmosphere that promotes recovery, while in offices, it improves the general work atmosphere.
Interested in how you can apply biophilic design in your healthcare or work environment? Contact us and explore our various applications.
