In the heart of Istanbul, Dilek Yasar, an academic from Istanbul Aydın University, is challenging the way we think about university design. Her recent study, published in the Journal of Asian Architecture and Building Engineering, delves into the application of biophilic design principles in contemporary university buildings. But what does this mean for the future of architecture, and how might it impact the energy sector?
Biophilic design, a concept that integrates natural elements into the built environment, has long been praised for its potential to enhance well-being and productivity. Yasar’s research, however, reveals a more nuanced picture. She found that while many modern university buildings do incorporate biophilic elements, these are often not explicitly intended as biophilic design strategies.
“Architects have long regarded nature as a significant design element,” Yasar explains. “But the specific application of biophilic design principles is still an emerging trend.”
So, what does this mean for the energy sector? Well, biophilic design isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about creating spaces that are not only pleasing to the eye but also beneficial to the environment and the people who inhabit them. Buildings designed with biophilic principles in mind can reduce energy consumption, improve indoor air quality, and even enhance the mental health of their occupants.
Imagine a university campus where buildings are designed to maximize natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting. Or where green roofs and walls help to insulate the building, reducing heating and cooling costs. These are not just pipe dreams; they are real possibilities that biophilic design can offer.
Yasar’s research suggests that the principles of biophilic design are aligned with key parameters of good design. As such, it’s likely that we’ll see more architects and designers embracing these principles in the future. This could lead to a wave of energy-efficient, sustainable buildings that are not only good for the environment but also good for the bottom line.
But the implications go beyond just energy savings. Biophilic design has the potential to transform the way we think about the built environment. It’s a reminder that we are not separate from nature, but a part of it. And as we continue to grapple with the challenges of climate change, this is a message that we need to hear more than ever.
So, as we look to the future, let’s hope that more architects and designers follow Yasar’s lead. Let’s hope that they embrace the principles of biophilic design and create buildings that are not just functional, but also beautiful, sustainable, and beneficial to the people who inhabit them. After all, as Yasar puts it, “The principles of biophilic design are aligned with key parameters of good design.” And who wouldn’t want to live and work in a space that’s designed with those principles in mind?
