Originally published by HOTEL magazine, October 2024
Bio·phil·ia ˌbī-ō-ˈfi-lē-ə -ˈfēl-yə: a hypothetical human tendency to interact or be closely associated with other forms of life in nature, a desire or tendency to commune with nature. As a concept Biophilia has been around since ancient times but the term was coined in the 1980s by the Harvard naturalist Dr. Edward O. Wilson.
Biophilic design began in modern architecture and is the art of introducing various, directly or indirectly natural features into the built environment to nurture the relationship between people and nature. Directly biophilic design treatments may include planting and landscaping, water features, use of windows, skylights, balconies and doors to capture natural light, views of natural environmental features and the use of indoor-outdoor flow.
Indirect biophilia in design includes the incorporation of materials such as timbre, stone and clay; natural fibres such as wool and linens, and colours found in nature, like greens, blues and earthy tones. More modern less puristic biophilic treatments which are popular in recent years are the use of wallpapers and paintings depicting natural environments and wildlife, such as jungle and forest inspired patterns and scenes.
The benefits of these natural and nature-inspired inclusions are said to include increased creativity, reduced stress, improved mood and general wellbeing. By adopting biophilic design, hotels can create environments that resonate with guests, creating a sense of sanctuary and refuge and signaling to them that this is an establishment that cares about its customers and their experience.
Our CTRL Space Australian office is opposite the James Street precinct in Brisbane which is a stunning example of directly biophilic design, its buildings adorned with sprawling vines and cascading green edifices. The tropical elements they have used are well suited to the Queensland climate and it is important to note when considering a similar application that these may not work in another environment. What works in tropical Queensland may not work in wintry Queenstown for example.
In all of our projects, we will look to integrate planting & greenery in a sympathetic manner. Some successful examples of this include;
The Clarence Hotel Winter Gardens: an atmospheric winter garden glasshouse that whisks guests away to some far-off dining experience.
The award-winning Metita in the SkyCity Hotel - a Pacific-inspired restaurant directly influenced by traditional fishing tools and the essence of the ocean itself adorned with tropical palms and blue green tones to create a lush tropical sanctuary for diners.
Soda: An elegant yet comfortable space with views of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown and a summery Mediterranean ambience, brought to life through olive trees, lemon trees and natural wooden furnishings and floors.
Pachamama rooftop restaurant and bar takes inspiration from Queensland's vibrant fruits and vegetation,combining mango yellows, avocado greens, and grapefruit pinks with contemporary decor.
As with all design, when it comes to biophilic briefs, a strategic approach should be taken from the very outset, particularly when working with live planting. It is important that the biophilic application aligns with the design concept and is not just planting or greenery for the sake of it. We’d always recommend engaging with the correct professionals when choosing the theme and its associated plants or vegetation, ensuring appropriate choices for the climate and a clear understanding of growth and maintenance. Plants are organisms, they may change shape, they may drop leaves, and they need watering, pruning and fertilising. You can’t just set and forget these living design elements!
It is also important that you don’t get too carried away. You don’t want your space to feel like a garden centre. You want to find a sweet spot, using planting to soften the space without overwhelming it and creating a memorable and enjoyable experience for guests that keeps them coming back.