Biophilic urbanism: the potential to transform

Abstract

Purpose – The emergent and allied concepts of biophilia, biophilic design, and biophilic urbanism are all concerned with human experiences of nature. This spans the theoretical affiliation with, and the need for nature (biophilia) that can be achieved through design approaches in the built environment (biophilic design), and systemically throughout cities (biophilic urbanism). The purpose of this paper is to distinguish attributes and principles of each and addresses their application in contemporary urban settings. Design/methodology/approach – This commentary draws on extant literature in the fields of biophilia, biophilic design, and biophilic urbanism to consider these concepts within broader discourse around nature and design. The author provides clarity on how this direct understanding and practice of urban design and development provides for meaningful experiences with nature. Findings – The unifying focus of this discussion is the evolutionary proposition that humans developed an innate tendency t...