How Modern Architecture Works Against Our Brain

Most Canadians spend about 90% of their time indoors. In winter, even more. Yet our bodies and brains didn’t evolve under fluorescent lights or in sealed office towers.

We evolved outdoors, in changing light, fresh air, layered sounds, and spaces where we felt safe.

That disconnect is part of what biophilic design tries to solve.

Learn more about biophilic design in the in-depth article Biophilic Design: The Science of Buildings and Human Biology by Summer Rylander.

What is Biophilic Design?

The term “biophilia” was popularized by biologist Edward O. Wilson in the 1980s. It describes the human tendency to connect with life and natural systems. Today, architects and building scientists turn that idea into measurable design strategies that support both health and sustainability with more than just adding a few plants to the lobby.

Narkhede, Dr-Parag. (2021). APPLICATION OF BIOPHILIC DESIGN IN ARCHITECTURAL ILLUSION. Webology. 18. 7369.

Biophilic design focuses on integrating nature into built environments in intentional ways to create environments that work with human biology, including: 

• Natural daylight

• Organic shapes and textures

• Views of outdoor spaces

• Natural ventilation

• Wood, stone, and other natural materials

• Quiet, sheltered areas within open spaces

In Canada, conversations around green building often centre on emissions and energy efficiency, but there’s growing recognition that occupant wellbeing matters too. A building can be environmentally efficient while still feeling stressful or exhausting inside. 

Why Some Spaces Feel Better

People gravitate toward window seats, cozy corners, and cafés with a tucked-away booth. 

In 1975, geographer Jay Appleton introduced the “prospect-refuge theory.” The idea is simple: humans prefer spaces where they can see what’s around while feeling protected. So, spaces that balance openness with shelter feel calmer and safer.

Designers use:

• Framed views

• Transitional spaces

• Varied ceiling heights

• Semi-private seating areas

• Architectural “nooks”

  
  

That explains the failure of open-concept offices. Removing barriers didn’t make us more comfortable or collaborative.

Nature Helps Our Brain and Body Recover

Research also links natural environments to improved focus and lower stress.

Psychologists Rachel and Stephen Kaplan developed Attention Restoration Theory, showing that natural settings restore mental energy through “soft fascination.” Think of moving clouds, rustling leaves, or flowing water. These hold our attention softly, gently, without demanding effort.

There’s also evidence that nature influences physical recovery. A well-known 1984 study by psychologist Roger Ulrich found that hospital patients with views of trees recovered faster and needed less pain medication than those facing a wall.

Since then, studies link exposure to natural environments to lower cortisol, reduced blood pressure, and improved mood.

Not a Wellness Trend

A misconception about biophilic design is that it’s mostly aesthetic. Adding a plant wall to a poorly lit office doesn’t magically make it restorative. Context, lighting conditions, layout, airflow, acoustics, and spatial comfort all contribute.

Biophilic design sits at the intersection of neuroscience, psychology, ecology, and architecture, increasingly influencing building standards and sustainability frameworks across Canada.

Research continues, but one thing is clear. The space we spend time in shapes how we think, feel, recover, and function. Biophilic Design recognizes that human biology still matters, even in modern buildings.