Tag: biophilia

December 28, 2015

Biophilia: Designing with Nature

by Lisa Bonanate Highline Park Have you ever wondered why the sound of waves, a walk in the woods or a secluded refuge are universally appealing?  One school of thought says that man has an innate need to connect with the natural world.  Biophilia – meaning “love of life” – is the term used to describe this instinctive response to nature.  It originated with psychologist Erich Fromm, but became popular through the writings of biologist Edward O. Wilson, who proposed that our attraction to nature is actually rooted in our biology.  But beyond the sensory appeal, biophilic design in the built environment plays an important role in physical and psychological well-being – and that can ultimately translate into economic benefits.   (more…)