Building a sustainable future
Designing with nature in mind
In an era where climate change and environmental degradation are becoming increasingly urgent concerns, the concept of designing with nature in mind has never been more important. This approach prioritises a strong connection between the built environment and the natural world. Through embracing nature within our designs, we can create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing, but also environmentally responsive and trigger a positive human psychological response.
The essence of designing with nature
Designing with nature can be referred to as biophilic design, or mimicking natural forms, shapes, colours within a built environment landscape. Inspiration is drawn from the beauty of natural systems, seeking to minimise environmental impacts and promote sustainability. The aim is to create buildings and communities that harmonise with their natural surroundings and boost biodiversity.
Benefits of nature-inspired design
1. Environmental sustainability
The most obvious benefit of designing with nature is the positive impact on the environment. By utilising sustainable materials, integrating greenspaces and mimicking energy efficient systems, we can reduce our carbon footprint and conserve natural resources. Techniques such as natural ventilation and rainwater harvesting exemplify how buildings and urban environments can function in harmony with the natural environment. (see image below).
2. Health and wellbeing
Natural design elements have been proven to enhance human health and wellbeing, triggering a positive psychological response. Access to green space, natural light and opportunities to play or linger in outdoor space can significantly improve mental and physical health. Studies have shown that exposure to nature reduces stress and anxiety, boosts mood and enhances cognitive function. Incorporating biophilic design principles such as water features, natural materials, plants and an overall feeling of a connection to nature can create more inviting and restorative places.
3. Economic efficiency
Sustainable design often leads to long term economic benefits. Energy efficient buildings are less or completely un reliant on non-renewable energy sources and have much lower building maintenance costs. The use of durable, locally sourced materials can lower maintenance expenses in addition to lowering embodied carbon. Spaces designed with nature at the forefront tend to have a higher market value and attract more environmentally conscious residents.
4. Resilience and adaptability
Nature inspired designs are often more resilient to environmental challenges. Buildings that use natural cooling and heating methods are less dependent on external energy sources and more adaptable to variations in climate. Green roofs and walls can mitigate urban heat island effects and manage stormwater, reducing the risk of flooding.
Example of natural ventilation and rainwater harvesting
Key principles of nature inspired design
1. Biomimicry
Biomimicry involves emulating nature’s time-tested patterns and strategies. By studying how natural systems overcome problems, designers can create innovative solutions that are efficient and sustainable. A recognised example of this is the Eastgate Centre, Zimbabwe, which mimics the natural ventilation in termite mounds to maintain near constant temperatures all year long.
The process sucks in cool nighttime air into large floor voids and extracts it throughout the day via grilles. Stale warm air naturally vents out of large chimneys, utilising a passive stack effect. Drawing inspiration from the thermoregulation of termite mounds, the Eastgate Centre uses 90% less energy for ventilation than conventional buildings of its size.
2. Green infrastructure
Integrating high quality greenspaces, such as parks, green roofs and urban forests, creates more liveable and sustainable cities. Since the COVID-19 pandemic the availability of and connection to nature has never been as important, following an all-time high in social isolation and loneliness. Even a natural view from a window can enhance one’s perception of the area and provide a means of escape. Green infrastructure elements not only enhance aesthetic appeal but allow for critical ecosystem services like air and water purification, temperature regulation and a habitat for wildlife to flourish.
3. Passive design
Passive design strategies utilise the building orientation, layout and materials to maximise natural light, ventilation and thermal comfort. This approach reduces reliance on mechanical systems and lowers energy consumption. Examples include strategic window placement to capture sunlight in winter and shade in summer and using thermal mass materials to regulate indoor temperatures.
4. Community integration
Sustainable design also considers the social aspects of the built environment. Creating spaces which encourage community interaction, walkability and connection to nature can enhance social cohesion and the quality of life. Collaborating with local residents in the design stages can ensure new development meets the needs and core values of the people it directly effects.
Designing with nature in mind is not just a trend but a requirement for a sustainable future. By integrating ecological principles into our built environment, we can create spaces that respect and enhance the natural world, whilst improving human health and wellbeing. As we prepare to face increasing environmental variations, it is important to build resilient communities that are equipped for this change. Embracing nature inspired design is a crucial step towards building resilient and sustainable communities.
Urban Design Box aims to lead by example, taking on the responsibility to pave the way for a future where human and environmental health are intertwines.
