Applying the benefits of biophilic theory to hospital design

Abstract

Introduction:In 1839, the Lexicon Medicum mentioned the "healing powers of nature", arguing that many illnesses could be cured without the help of medicines, simply by paying attention to air, food, rest, physical activity, and state of mind. Therefore, already then, the environment was considered therapeutic and capable of affecting the health of individuals and helping their recovery (Hickman in Therapeutic landscape. A history of English hospital gardens since 1800, 2013). This awareness has remained valid since then, although the approach has changed and evolved over time.Case description: In the 20th century, these assumptions have been supported, among others, by the research carried out by Ulrich on the ability of surgical patients to recover when they were exposed to the sight of nature. Indeed, there is a growing body of research which confirms the benefits of interacting with nature in hospital settings. The results of such studies have helped to better define a new approach to design that benefits the psychophysical wellbeing of individuals and improves their health (i.e. biophilic design). Discussion and evaluation:The aim of this article is to highlight the growing importance of a cultural change in the design of spaces aimed at reconnecting individuals with the patterns and processes of nature, both in the urban context and, in particular, in healthcare spaces. This study intends to contribute to the ongoing debate concerning a new architectural language for hospitals and to shed light on the key features of health-inducing buildings. Conclusions:The global health challenges of the 21st century require a new way of thinking and a change in the organisation of healthcare services through an approach that considers human needs in their entirety, and not in a strictly therapeutic sense. According to several studies, the humanisation of healthcare spaces and contact with nature can empower the patient and have a positive impact by reducing stress and pain and improving emotional wellbeing. However, further studies are required not just in order to deepen our understanding of the human-nature relationship and its impact on health, but also to change our approach regarding patients' health by considering a new vision of medicine, healthcare and healing environment.

A Theoretical Framework for Bolstering Human-Nature Connections and Urban Resilience via Green Infrastructure

“…Due to the dominant impact of humans on the systems of planet Earth, the new geological series of the Anthropocene, also sometimes referred to as the Human Dominated Geological Epoch, has been recognized [80][81][82][83][84][85][86][87][88]. While somewhat contested, this epoch is proposed to have commenced in the 1950s, the Anthropocene is characterized by trends of urbanism and the depletion and/or contamination of natural resources [1,89].…”

“…Functioning urban ecosystems, biophilic principles, and UGI assets have further been shown to reduce crime rates, increase hospital patient recovery, and reduce the need and reliance on pain medication in hospital patients [21,87]. Equitable access to quality UGI that aligns with the HNCT can also reduce the vulnerability of populations in respect to health impacts brought about by heatwaves and extreme weather events [21].…”

Occupational Stress and Workplace Design

“…In a review of the psychological literature on the health and wellbeing benefits of biophilic design, Gillis and Gatersleben (2015) [76] also concluded that the presence of restorative qualities in biophilic design in a built environment can help foster recovery from stress and mental fatigue. The health benefits of helping patients recover is also documented by Totaforti (2018) [77] using the case study of a hospital, where she argued for the use of the healing powers of nature. Table 4 shows strengths and limitations of the current models and concepts concerning work design, workplace design, stress, wellbeing and connection to nature as put forward over the years.…”

Colour here, there, and in‐between—Placemaking and wayfinding in mental health environments

“…14 In some instances, the choice of colour internally and views externally to nature has been linked to improve recovery rates and the benefits of biophilic design, including the choice of colours found in the natural world, have been widely studied and specifically in relation to hospital design. 15,16 The naming of colour by association with nature, is embedded in most cultures and employed by Patrick Syme's in his book Werner's Nomenclature of Colours (1814). 17 The practice continues in the, often esoteric, use of colour names for paint ranges aimed at the general public.…”

“…Furthermore, there has been a longstanding and widely evidenced relationship between well‐being and nature that can contribute to reduce stress 14 . In some instances, the choice of colour internally and views externally to nature has been linked to improve recovery rates and the benefits of biophilic design, including the choice of colours found in the natural world, have been widely studied and specifically in relation to hospital design 15,16 . The naming of colour by association with nature, is embedded in most cultures and employed by Patrick Syme's in his book Werner's Nomenclature of Colours (1814) 17 .…”