ENGINEERING RESEARCH JOURNAL (ERJ)

Vol.51, No.2 April 2022, pp.15-31

Journal Homepage: erj.bu.edu.eg

Practices of Biophilic Patterns in Workplace Design

Rana Mahmoud El-Bannanya, Assoc. Prof. Doaa K.Hassana,

Assoc. Prof. Ayman Mohamed Assema
a
Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt

Abstract; Nature-based design strategies for indoor environments as an efficient approach for improving
workplaces design and employee's health and wellbeing have received little attention compared to other design
strategies related to comfort and wellness concepts in workplaces including office ergonomics, thermal comfort,
lighting conditions and acoustic factors. The paper focuses on biophilic design as an effective approach for
enhancing workplace design and promoting employee’s health through the application of nature-based design
solutions. The study provides insights into the implementation of biophilic design patterns in workplace design
through studying international examples successfully adopting this design approach. Inputs about the biophilic
theoretical background and related health benefits are also discussed to better understand the user’s positive
responses to nature. This paper proposes a series of tools to be incorporated in actual design practice of
workplaces design aiming to reconnect users with natural environments thus benefiting from it in terms of
cognitive, psychological, and physiological health outcomes. These tools can be classified into elements related
to interior design, building design, and outdoor spaces design that can be included in further practices of
workplace design.

Keywords: Biophilia, biophilic design, restorative theories, health benefits, workplace design

Introduction

The world of work is changing presenting an layout but it is also perceived in the introduction
opportunity for workplaces design to change as of comfort and wellness concepts into workplace
well to optimize worker performance and design. Biophilic design is one emerging
productivity. Spending long hours in traditionally approach that contributes to the mental and
designed office workplaces overusing our mental physical wellness of its users through introduction
effort to perform tasks has grown the need to of natural elements in space design that enhance
address health, wellbeing, and productivity in human connection with nature [1].
these spaces. Hence, the change in workplace
Workplaces that incorporate elements of
design more recently is not just limited to office
nature can ensure for workers high levels of

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wellbeing, mental restoration, reduced stress, and This analysis concluded in identifying key aspects
enhanced cognitive performance in addition to of biophilic design application that offer an
boosting their productivity[1]–[3].This can be efficient design guide to be applied in further
explained through the biophilia hypothesis which workplace design.
demonstrates the inherent human inclination to
affiliate with nature[4], [5]. This paper presents
some theories that helped in translating human’s 3. THEORETICAL PERSPECTIVE
positive psychological and physiological A great body of research has arisen to
responses to nature into a set of design practices demonstrate the interdependency of human health
called biophilic design patterns that provide and wellbeing and the natural world based on the
several health benefits for users. The paper aims biophilia hypothesis that describes the human’s
to retrieve design strategies for applying the innate biological connection with nature which
biophilic approach efficiently in workplaces developed during the process of human
design via understanding the concept of biophilic evolution[4].This led to the development of
design patterns according to Terrapin Bright theories pertaining to biophilic design and
Green definition and categorization and via relevant to its principles andthat guide us how it
exploring and analyzing its application in terms of can be incorporated in an effective way that re-
workplace design to recognize how the designers introduce nature into the built environment.
can implement this approach successfully in a These theories can be cited as the attention
manner that support employees’ health and restoration theory (ART) that suggests that nature
productivity in turn. restores mental capacity [6], and the stress
reduction theory (SRT) that states that nature
recovers from stress [7]. Moreover, the prospect-
2. METHODOLOGY
refuge theory that argues that most preferred
In order to achieve the mentioned aims, this
environments are those who achieve balance
paper firstly conducts a literature review about the
between both prospect and refuge similar to
theoretical background behind the emergence of
natural environments [8], whereas the savanna
biophilic design and that provides the evidence of
hypothesis states that human prefer Savannah-like
the link between nature and improved wellbeing.
landscape than present cityscape [9], and finally
The benefits of biophilic design for human health
the ecological valence theory that suggests that
are then discussed to justify the benefits and
people seek colors that are relevant to thriving
positive impacts of introducing this design
nature [2]. Fig 1describes the process of
approach in space design, followed by an
translating biophilia into biophilic strategies
analytical study presenting international examples
within space design in relation to these theories:
of workplaces that best demonstrate successful
design interventions for each biophilic pattern.

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Fig 1. The process of translating biophilia hypothesis into biophilic design

4.Health benefits of biophilic design

The mentioned theories presented positive 4.1 Cognitive Functionality and Performance
human responses to nature related to enhanced Cognitive functioning refers to mental abilities
wellbeing and health outcomes for inhabitants. including thinking, remembering, learning,
Hence, the biophilic approach– that aims to re- decision making, problem solving and attention
introduce nature in the built environment – is [10]. To perform cognitive processes on repetitive
applied most recently as a complementary design tasks, we need to allocate our attention in a
strategy in several building types including the directed manner, this is called directed attention
workplace design where office workers report [11]. Directed Attention is energy intensive and
improved creativity, productivity and wellbeing in overusing it causes mental fatigue and depleted
spaces that feature connection to cognitive resources [3]. Walking in nature or
nature[3].Terrapin Bright Green in their report ‘14 viewing pictures of nature improve directed
Patterns of Biophilic Design’ noted that the attention abilities and allow it a chance to
human-related benefits of this design approach replenish as it is filled with intriguing stimuli that
are divided into three broad mind-body systems: gently grabs our attention [12].Attention
restoration theory as well demonstrates that nature

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 Engineering Research Journal (ERJ) Rana Mahmoud El-Bannany et al Vol. 51, No. 2 April 2022, pp. 15-31

provides us with moments of mental restoration implemented successfully within the workplace
resulting in improved cognitive functions and design to achieve fruitful outcomes:
better capacity for performing focused tasks[6].
5.1Nature in the Space
4.2 Psychological Health and Wellbeing The Nature in the space category includes
Psychological wellbeing includes reduced the patterns that represent direct and physical
stress, improved mood, and emotions. Many presence of nature in the space, which can be
studies have shown the evidence of positive achieved through adding natural elements to the
effects of nature in terms of specific built environment. This is the easiest yet most
psychological conditions such as depression, effective method to introduce the biophilic
anxiety, and mood disorder[13]. Virtual and direct approach to workplace design:
relation to nature improve psychological
restoration which is the ability to overcome stress 5.1.1 Visual Connection with Nature [P1]
and mental fatigue and experience the mental This pattern is defined as viewing elements
rejuvenation [14]. Furthermore, visiting or of nature, living systems and natural processes
viewing a forest scene has a greater positive going from viewing a natural view, adding water
outcome on psychological healing and wellbeing features to experiencing natural airflow, sounds
regarding recovery from stress, improved and scents. Strategies for applying this pattern in
concentration and productivity, and improved the workplace can be identified in implementation
psychological state than urban environments with of indoor plants illustrated in landscaping of trees
limited characteristics of nature [15]. and bushes, potted or hanged plants, green walls,
etc. Beside adding an aesthetic value to the space,
4.3Physiological Health and Wellbeing plants purify air from pollutants resulting from
Physiological Health refers to aural, carpets and new furniture which improves indoor
musculoskeletal, respiratory, circadian systems air quality[16], additionally it absorbs ambient
and overall physical comfort[3]. Being in nature noise and reduce acoustical distractions [17].
or viewing natural scenes contribute as well to
The biophilic pattern can also be applied through
better physiological responses in terms of reduced
including full height windows that maximize
blood pressure, heart rate deceleration, reduced
access to outdoor natural views and that flood the
muscle tension, improved brain electrical activity,
workplace with daylight as shown in Fig.2. Roof
and management of the production of stress
terraces and outdoor gardens ensure direct
hormones[7].Stephen Kellert demonstrated that
contact with nature as well and ensure a space
the successful application of biophilic design
for employees to perform individual tasks, to
result in several positive physical impacts
gather or to take a break while contemplating
including enhanced physical fitness, fewer illness
natural beauty as shown in Fig.3. However, some
symptoms and improved physical health resulting
workplaces lack access to outdoor views and
in enhanced performance and productivity [4].
tend to depict natural sceneries of plants motifs,
mountains, or oceans
5. APPLICATION OF BIOPHILIC
PATTERNS IN WORKPLACE DESIGN
This section aims to define biophilic
patterns according to the definition of Terrapin
Bright Green and Oliver Heath [3], [8] and to
study the suitable architectural intervention for
each biophilic pattern in terms of workplace
design. International examples are classified
under the main categories of biophilic design to FIG 2.Indoor plants and full height windows in
study how biophilic patterns can be Supermetrics offices, Finland[18]

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5.1.3 Non-Rhythmic Sensory Stimuli [P3]

The pattern refers to consistent, yet
unpredictable objects and materials found in
nature. Unpredictable moments of nature allow
employees to distract for instance from
performing focused tasks which reduce mental
fatigue because nature offer us moments of
FIG3.Rooftop at Interface Headquarters, Atlanta[19] effortless attention [6]. Momentary exposure to
nature can be experienced through operable
windows or through access to outdoor spaces such
5.1.2 Non-Visual Connection with Nature [P2]
as rooftops or terraces.
The pattern can be defined as experiencing
sounds, touch, tastes, and smells that engender 5.1.4 Thermal and Airflow Variability [P4]
positive reference to nature aiming to stimulate all The pattern aims to mimic the
human senses via exposure to references to environmental conditions found in nature where
nature. There are many applications that relate to human experience changes in temperature,
this pattern including the biophilic sounds cape as humidity, and airflow which is important for
shown in Fig. 4 which is mimicking sounds of employees’ comfort and physical health [23]. The
nature to help employees focus better on their basic application of this pattern is including sun
tasks especially in open floor plans where arise blinds that protect users from hot climates and
acoustical distractions [20]. The sense of touch operable windows or roof terraces and outdoor
can be stimulated as well through experiencing working areas that allow access to fresh air.
and touching natural materials used in the design Furthermore, applications of the pattern are
of the workplace such as wood, stone, marble, extended to more advanced window treatments
etc., as shown in Fig.5. Also, the senses of smell such as controllable façade-glass louvers that
and taste can be stimulated through growing local ensure varying temperatures all over the space to
flowers and herbs that release natural scents or enhance thermal comfort of users as shown in Fig.
fruits and vegetables. 6.
Beside addressing thermal variability,
several biophilic applications address airflow
variability to improve indoor air quality for
employees. Such applications can be illustrated as
implementing airflow sensors that control airflow
levels all over the workplace to enhance
employees’ attention on focused tasks, in addition
to including active air walls – shown in Fig. 7 –
FIG 4.Sensors emitting the sound of birds at
that remove air pollutants by drawing fresh air
Prudential WorkPLAYce[21] from roots and leaves which improve air quality.

FIG 5.The use of natural textures at Uncommon’s FIG 6.Controllable façade-glass louvers at Hankook
workplace[22] Technoplex[24]

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and dramatic shadows in the indoor space are a

common application of this pattern as shown in
Fig 9.

FIG 7.Atrium green wall at Centrica Office,

Oxford-UK[25]

5.1.5 Presence of Water [P5]

FIG 9. Leaf wall installation at Sanofi office,
Presence of water include experience of Dubai[27]
hearing, seeing, or touching water because being
near water arise feelings of tranquility and 5.1.7 Connection with Natural Systems [P7]
reduced stress. Implementation of water
This pattern aims to raise the awareness of
fountains, water walls and aquariums are common
applications of this biophilic pattern, and beside seasonal and temporal natural processes and to
connect people to changes that occur in nature.
adding an aesthetic value, they can be applied for
Integration of the pattern in workplace design can
a functional reason which is masking ambient
be illustrated in including full height windows,
noise in workplaces. In case of the complexity of
rooftop gardens, courtyards, and office patios that
applying such features, images depicting water in
allow employees to notice outdoor plants that
nature can be efficient.
grow and die with seasons in addition to other
natural life cycles as shown in Fig. 10. It can be
applied also through implementing mechanical
systems dependent on processes occurring in
nature such as rainwater, solar radiations, and
wind breezes; such systems can be cited as
rainwater collection systems, solar photovoltaic
panels, or electricity systems.

FIG 8.Small islands-like meeting rooms sunken in a

pool of water [26]

5.1.6 Dynamic and Diffuse of Light [P6]

This pattern reinforces our connection to
varying intensities of natural light and shadows
that change to simulate conditions that occur in
nature. The exposure to daylight in workplaces FIG 10.Office patio that allows awareness of
can be achieved via incorporating full height seasonal changes in nature[28]
windows, atriums, and skylights which maintain
circadian systems. Additionally, advanced
5.2 Natural Analogues
technologies such as occupancy light sensors and
TheNatural analogues category presents the
switchable opaque glass walls ensure exposure to
patterns that refer to indirect simulation of nature
dynamic diffuse of light in the workplace.
through implementing man-made elements that
Moreover, including wall installation or façade
mimic nature in the built environment which trigger
skins that createdynamic conditions of lighting
the same feelings as being in the natural environment:

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5.2.1 Biomorphic Forms and Patterns [P8]

Biomorphic forms and patterns give a
symbolic reference to patterned or textured
arrangements found in nature; it is often applied
in fractals, natural patterns, and fluid and organic
forms of design elements of the workplace as
shown in Fig. 11. Fluid and organic forms found
in nature can also be applied to other design
elements such as furniture pieces and wall FIG 13.Wooden material selection in ceiling, desks
partitions as shown in Fig. 12. and flooring at Hortonworks office[32]

FIG 14.Workplace using colors inspired from

FIG 11.Tree-like structure at ATXK Office[29] nature (green, blue, and yellow)[33]

5.2.3 Complexity and Order [P10]

The concept of complexity and order arises
from the rich sensory information found in nature
in complex fractal and geometrical patterns of
natural forms. The objective of this pattern is to
include fractal patterns, symmetries, and complex
configurations in the built environment similar to
those found in nature. Basically, these
FIG 12.Organic working area at Open AD office[30] applications can be found at varying scales in
workplace design going from carpets textures,
5.2.2 Material Connection with Nature [P9] modular floorings, and partitions to complex
Another way of indirect simulation of nature in building skins and exposed structural and
the workplace is the selection of materials and mechanical systems as shown in Fig. 15.
elements of nature that reflect local ecology or
geology to create a sense of place such as wood,
stone, marble, etc. in floorings, wall cladding and
furnishing – shown in Fig. 13 – that help in
reducing the release of chemicals and toxic
emissions that impact air quality [31]. The
biophilic pattern can also be achieved through
selection of color palettes inspired from nature in
design such as earthy shades, blue and green tones
that are most synonymous with nature as shown FIG 15.Patterns applied into floorings and
partitions at Nordea Seaport office[34]
in Fig. 14.

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5.3 Nature of the Space pattern as it provides a protected and private zone
The Nature of the space category presents within the open plan workplace as shown in
the patterns that replicate the feelings nature give Fig.18.
us. These patterns are based on the concept of
human evolution in nature and the feelings he had
beyond the immediate surroundings where he
evolved in:
5.3.1 Prospect [P11]
The prospect pattern is defined as providing
unimpeded views over a distance for surveillance
and planning relating it to open design. Prospect
in workplaces can be achieved through several
design strategies; one of them is the open plan FIG 17. Private spaces for work or relaxation at
space layout. Additionally, transparent materials Adobe HQ, California[36]
and see-through partitionsare also an evident
application of prospect pattern in workplace
design as it allows employees to survey whether
their surrounding or the natural outdoor
environment. Access to rooftop and balconies for
surveillance and elevated planes are a common
application of prospect pattern as well as they
give the user the ability to survey his
surroundings as shown in Fig. 16.

FIG 18.Freestanding partitions to ensure isolation

and privacy[37]

5.3.3 Mystery [P13]

The mystery pattern consists of partially obscured
views that stimulate user’s excitement and sense
of exploration which allow him to travel deeper
FIG 16.Terraces and bridges give prospect views into the environment. Curved walls and see-
at Amazon Spheres[35] through partitions are common applications of the
mystery pattern in workplace design because they
5.3.2 Refuge [P12] stimulate the employees to explore the whole
The refuge pattern aims to survey and look over space as shown in Fig. 19. Designers of
the surrounding environment but from a workplaces recently tend to add way finding paths
withdrawn place protected from overhead and on floorings to guide employees to navigate
behind which provide users a private space all through the workplace fluidly shown in Fig. 20,
along with being able to observe the these paths represent an interesting visual map
surroundings; these private spaces help them to that creates a sense of mystery and that helps
maintain their energy levels. A refuge space can employees to explore the space on their own.
be indoor such as telephone pods, private nooks,
recharge rooms and swing seats as shown in Fig.
17or a semi-open outdoor place. Implementation
of furniture forms that ensure both enclosure and
privacy is an additional strategy for the refuge

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 Engineering Research Journal (ERJ) Rana Mahmoud El-Bannany et al Vol. 51, No. 2 April 2022, pp. 15-31

FIG 21. Double heights and cantilevers at Amazon

Spheres[40]

FIG 19.Curvilinear walls at Zhen Fund Office,

China[38]

FIG 22.Hammock as a relaxation space at Kong

Rex Office, Brazil[41]

6. DISCUSSION
Key aspects of biophilic interventions at
different scales of workplace design can be
retrieved from the analysis of the mentioned
FIG 20.Highlighted travel paths at DoorDash examples, offering a design guide for applying
HQ[39] various biophilic strategies in the working
environment to achieve healthier and more
5.3.4 Risk/Peril [P14] productive workplaces. TABLE presents this
The risk pattern is defined as unidentified threats guide that is classified to relate each biophilic
coupled with a reliable safeguard. Perceived risk pattern to the theories mentioned earlier and to the
feelings can be fear of falling, getting wet or health outcomes suggested by Terrapin Bright
hurt, and losing control[3]. Installation of full Green. Then, the suitable architectural strategy is
height windows, transparent railings, double related to each pattern in terms of workplace
heights, and cantilevers provide feelings of risk design based on the analyzed examples.
from falling as shown in Fig. 21. Office Biophilic strategies to be applied in the
hammocks is an innovative trend introduced workplace can be classified into elements related
recently in some workplaces design to offer to interior design concerning the spatial features,
employees a flexible and private space to relax or finishings, and furnishings, elements related to
to perform a personal task as shown in Fig. 22. building design including fenestrations and
These hammocks can be installed over a double building’s form and outer skin and to outdoor
height to support the risk pattern spaces designas an integral part of the workplace
design. All proposed design elements aim to
foster employees’ contact with nature.

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 Biophilic Strategies for Workplace Design

Health
Biophilic Pattern

Benefits[3]

Related Theory
1 2 3 Interior Design Building Design Outdoor Spaces Design
Engineering Research Journal (ERJ)

- Indoor plants andgreen walls - Full height windows that - Roof terrace and outdoor
Visual connection
* * * as a part of the workplace access natural views gardens that foster visual
with nature [P1]
interior design - Depicting natural sceneries connection with nature

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- Biophilic soundscape that
Non-Visual allows digital simulation of
- Growing herbs and flowers in
connection with * * * natural sounds
TABLE 1.Key aspects of biophilic patterns applied in the workplace

- local gardens to release natural

Rana Mahmoud El-Bannany et al

nature [P2] - Experience of touching scents

natural elements

Nature in the Space

Non-Rhythmic - Operable windowsthat - Access to outdoor spaces that
sensory stimuli * * provide employees with a sense allow exposure to
-

Attention Restoration Theory and Stress Reduction Theory

of control to experience unpredictable moments of
[P3]
moments of nature nature
Vol. 51, No. 2 April 2022, pp. 15-31
 - Operable windows and sun
blinds - Roof terrace and
Thermal and
- Window glazing and window outdoor spaces as an
airflow variability * * * - Active air walls that remove
treatments that ensure varying integrated part of the
- air pollutants
[P4] temperatures all over the workplace workplace design that
- Airflow sensors to control allow access to fresh air
airflow levels
Engineering Research Journal (ERJ)

- Water fountain/ Water wall

Presence of water /Aquarium
* * * - -
[P5] - Images depicting water in
nature

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- Full height windows
Dynamic and /atrium/skylights flooding the
- Switchable opaque glass

Nature in the Space

interior spaces with daylight
diffuse of light * walls -
Rana Mahmoud El-Bannany et al

[P6] - Façade skins creating shifting

- Occupancy light sensors
shadow patterns

- Full height windowsto notice

Attention Restoration Theory and Stress Reduction Theory

seasonal changes and other natural - Rooftop
Connection with life cycles gardens/courtyards/
-
natural systems * - - Mechanical and sustainable office patios that blend
[P7] systems dependent on natural barriers between indoors
processes and outdoors
Vol. 51, No. 2 April 2022, pp. 15-31
 - Access to rooftop and balconies
to provide outdoor prospect
conditions Biomorphic forms - Fluid and organic
* - Replicating forms and patterns
forms in building and

ART
and patterns [P8] found in nature
space design
Engineering Research Journal (ERJ)

- Outdoor sheltered and private

spaces as a refuge for employees

- Selection of natural materials

Material (wood, stone, marble, etc.)
connection with * *

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- Color palettes inspired from -
nature [P9] nature (earthy tones, green and
-

Natural Analogues
blue)

Ecological Valence Theory

Rana Mahmoud El-Bannany et al

- Implementation of geometric - Patterned building

- Access to rooftop and balconies Complexity and and fractal patterns in interior skin
* *
that increase the feelings of risk order [P10] design (partitions, carpet textures, - Exposed mechanical
modular floorings, etc.) and structural systems
Savanna Hypothesis
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Engineering Research Journal (ERJ) Rana Mahmoud El-Bannany et al Vol. 51, No. 2 April 2022, pp. 15-31

relaxation (swing seats, telephone

- Quiet zones for focused tasks or

- Curved walls in workplace

feelings of risk from falling

transparent railings provide
- Full height windows that

design that give a sense of

- Full height windows and

- Architectural cantilevers
- Open plan space layout
maximize outdoor views

pods, private nooks)

- Elevated planes

- Double heights
mystery

- Office hammocks installed over

- Furniture forms that allow both

employees find their destination

partitions and railingsto provide

a certain height as a leisure and

- Transparent and see-through

- Wayfinding paths that help

stimulate the user’s sense of
- See-through partitions that
indoor prospect conditions

enclosure and privacy

private space for rest

exploration

easily
*
*

*
*

Prospect-Refuge Theory and Savanna Hypothesis

Risk/Peril[P14]
Prospect [P11]

Mystery [P13]
Refuge [P12]

Nature of the Space

(1) Cognitive Functionality and Performance, (2) Psychological Health, (3) Physiological Health

7. CONCLUSION
In order to improve employee’s health and wellbeing, biophilic design approach is introduced in
workplace design aiming to enhance mental and psychological responses of its occupants. The theories
mentioned in the paper focus on the role of nature in improving human’s health and wellbeing and provide a
better understanding of the process of translation of biophilia hypothesis into biophilic design principles.
literature review on biophilic design benefits in relation to cognitive, psychological, and physiological health
is presented as well and an analytical study of several examples that better illustrate the application of
biophilic patterns in workplace design is conducted.

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 Engineering Research Journal (ERJ) Rana Mahmoud El-Bannany et al Vol. 51, No. 2 April 2022, pp. 15-31

The paper focused on studying the possible combinations of several biophilic elements into a specific
building type, the workplace. The study also provided key aspects of biophilic strategies in workplace design
that harness our affinity to nature and design nature back into our built environment aiming to improve the
employees’ experience in workplaces in relation to their cognitive, psychological, and physiological health.
These design interventions can be applied in further practices as a guide for spatial design of workplaces.
Further research shall study the quantity and quality of applied patterns, and biophilic design strategies in
relation to environmental and weather conditions shall be studied as well in further research. Moreover,
designers shall consider sensorial and social needs of building’s occupants and not focus only on spatial and
aesthetic aspects of space design.

[7] R. Ulrich, R. Simons, B. Losito, E. Fiorito, M.

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