Comparing Biomimicry to Biophilic Design

24 Nov | Biophilic Design, Publications

Biophilic design enhances our connection to nature, while biomimicry replicates nature's solutions.
Biophilic design enhances our connection to nature, while biomimicry replicates nature’s solutions.

Comparing biophilic design to biomimicry.

When studying design, it’s easy to confuse biophilia and biomimicry as interchangeable concepts. While both arise from a profound appreciation for nature, significant differences exist between the two.

What is biomimicry?

According to the Biomimicry Institute, biomimicry is the practice of learning from and mimicking the strategies evolved by organisms in the natural world. This innovative method models natural forms, patterns, and processes to tackle technological challenges. Essentially, biomimicry replicates nature’s problem-solving techniques to create sustainable solutions for human design issues.

Example of Biomimicry:

A prime example of biomimicry is the design of wind turbine blades that replicate the bumps found on the front edge of a whale fin. These bumps enhance the whale’s efficiency in the water, and when mimicked on turbine blades, they similarly improve performance while reducing drag.

Integrating natural materials enhances the sensory experience in biophilic design.
Integrating natural materials enhances the sensory experience in biophilic design.

What is biophilic design?

In contrast, biophilia emphasizes our innate connection to nature, focusing on how being surrounded by natural elements can promote healing and well-being. Biophilic design integrates natural materials, shapes, and plants into our environments, stimulating our senses and strengthening our bond with nature.

Sensory Engagement:

Biophilic design works with our senses—sight, smell, hearing, touch, and taste—to create a holistic experience. For example, the living plant walls at Plant Solutions exemplify how incorporating nature can enhance interior design and foster a deeper human-nature connection.

Key differences between biophilic design and biomimicry

While both terms contain “bio,” they serve distinct purposes:

  • Biomimicry: Think of it as using nature’s recipes to create more sustainable human designs in forms, processes, materials, and products.
  • Biophilic Design: Consider it as a strategy to deepen our connection to the natural world, ultimately enhancing human health and wellness.

Understanding these differences is vital for anyone working in the field of design. They may share a foundation in nature, but their applications and impacts are uniquely significant.

By recognizing the distinctions between both concepts, designers can more effectively harness the power of nature in their work. Whether enhancing our connection to nature or solving technological challenges through biomimicry, both approaches play essential roles in creating a sustainable and healthy built environment.

Choose sustainable plant solutions for your office

Partner with us to ensure your plants are sourced sustainably and maintained with care. From installations to eco-friendly horticultural services, we can help you design a workspace that aligns with your company’s CSR initiatives. Contact us today!

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Recent Posts

Gratitude for nature this Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving traditions bring families together to share meals and celebrate the season. As the days get shorter and the air cools, families all across America look forward to Thanksgiving. Who doesn’t love feasting, friends, football, and fireside movies? In our...

What’s the difference between biophilic and biomorphic design?

Natural light, outdoor views, and real plants are an easy way to incorporate biophilic design into any space. Biophilic design and biomorphic design are both rooted in the idea of connecting people to nature, but they approach this goal in different ways. The gist of...

Witches: Our ancient biophilic design experts

Witches knew the magic of bringing nature indoors—enhance your space with calming greenery. Halloween is almost here, and what’s more festive than witches? Witches and witchcraft have been part of history for thousands of years. From ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt to...

How biophilic design contributes to Corporate Social Responsibility

Corporate social responsibility is supported by biophilic design. As businesses strive to meet these Corporate Social Responsibility (CRS) goals, many turn to biophilic design and indoor plant life as powerful tools for creating a sustainable office. But how exactly...

The science behind biophilic design in office spaces

Biophilic design in office spaces. You may have heard about the "biophilia hypothesis" buzzing around in conversations about design. Back in the 70s, this hypothesis birthed study of biophilia, and what we now know as biophilic design. But what does it mean, and why...

Benefits and design considerations for green roofs in Phoenix

A green roof helps keep buildings cool in the hot Arizona sun, saving energy. Green roofs are becoming a hot topic in the world of commercial buildings. Gardens on rooftops – filled with plants, flowers, and sometimes vegetables – offer a range of benefits that make...

Categories

Get Social