Biophilic design in architecture : towards the design of a natural sciences museum in Durban.

Abstract

Biophilia refers to the innate human tendency to affiliate with elements of the natural environment, and forms the basis of 'biophilic‘ design. Man has historically shared a complex and interdependent relationship with nature, with much of human understanding stemming from thoughtful analysis of the natural world around. Contemporary lifestyle has led to man distanced from the natural environment, leading predominantly indoor lifestyles. Biophilic design provides the prospect for greater connectivity to the natural environment with the capacity to foster greater positive connections and stewardship of nature through more thoughtful, contextually sensitive approach to the creation of architectural built form. The research aims to establish how built form can be characterised through innate connections to the natural environment.