015 Biophilia Effect
A state of reduced stress and improved concentration resulting from nature views.
• Exposure to natural environments replete with lush green flora and visible water reduces stress and confers restorative cognitive and physical benefits.
• The effect is likely a vestigial response to ancestral habitats, related to the savanna preference.
• Imagery of nature depicted in art and photographs, as well as interior plants, can trigger the biophilia effect.
• The strength of the effect corresponds to the level of exposure. Office environments with one plant are unlikely to trigger the effect. Office environments with ample greenery are more likely to trigger the effect.
• Consider the biophilia effect in the design of all environments, but especially environments in which learning, healing, and concentration are paramount.
See Also Cathedral Effect • Green Effects • Prospect-Refuge Savanna Preference • Self-Similarity
