Implementation of biophilic design principles for sustainable housing development

Abstract

Reconnecting building occupants with nature while encouraging sustainability has become more important due to ongoing urbanization and growing environmental concerns. In order to enhance both the natural environment and the well-being of residents. This study investigated the role of biophilic design in sustainable housing, aiming to develop a framework that guides architectural decisions, fosters restorative living environments, and informs future designs that strengthen the human-nature connection. This research addresses a research gap, as the existing body of knowledge is limited in its investigation of how biophilic design principles can be effectively integrated into residential architecture, particularly sustainable housing, to enhance occupant well-being and environmental performance. With the aid of a qualitative approach, the research analyzed biophilic design principles adopted inhousing design and their impacts onsustainable housing delivery. A review of thirty-one articles published between 2004 and 2024 was conducted through internet-based searches in academic databases, including Scopus, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, ResearchGate, and the Covenant University Repository. The collected data were subjected to content analysis. The findings informed the development of a biophilic design framework and a corresponding architectural proposal. The results were presented descriptively, supported by visual architectural representations to enhance clarity and comprehension. The study proposed a framework for integrating biophilic design into sustainable housing, exemplified by a design constructed from upcycled metal shipping containers. Biophilic architecture offers innovative solutions in residential projects, fostering hope for the future of sustainable housing. The study highlighted the alignment of biophilic principles with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), promoting well-being (SDG 3), urban sustainability (SDG 11), climate change mitigation (SDG 13), and biodiversity conservation in urban ecosystems (SDG 15). The research adds to the discourse on biophilic architecture in housing projects, showcasing its opportunities and applications for sustainable housing schemes.