As a leading figure in biophilic design, Oliver is working with global modular flooring manufacturer Interface to raise the awareness of the benefits of design inspired by nature. A prominent thinker in the architecture industry and owner of Heath Design Ltd, Oliver is also a writer and TV presenter.
October 14, 2021
Over the last four years we have been investigating the many benefits that a human centred design approach can offer, focusing on human connections to nature through the evolutionary approach of Biophilic Design. Much of what affects whether design is beneficial or not, comes down to our sensory experiences of spaces.
August 5, 2021
There is perhaps no more important space to harness the power of good design than in that of education. When children have a positive experience of education at an early age, it inspires and stimulates them, and can ignite a passion for learning.
July 14, 2021
The reason hotels have such a diverse range of spaces is due to the wide array of needs of different guests. If designed well, all atmospheres and desired moods can be catered for within a short distance from one another.
July 6, 2020
We are all familiar with the term ‘Sick Building Syndrome’ as a term that is bandied around to imply an unhealthy environment to be in. But what makes a building ‘sick’? And what are its effects? A research report says –The lack of light, fresh air and natural views can be a direct threat to…
July 1, 2020
It is almost impossible to discuss biophilic design in healthcare without mentioning this 1981 seminal study on recovery times during post operative care after gall bladder surgery by professor Roger Ulrich of Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden. This fascinating study investigates whether a view out to nature from their room had any effect on…
May 8, 2020
Following our design guide, ‘Creating Positive Spaces using the WELL Building Standard’, we have written an inspirational guide on the topic of Biophilic Design and how to use its principles in creative and cost-effective ways.
December 20, 2018
Biophilic Design interventions play a key role within many hospitality spaces. They can help us to relax, sleep better and feel happier – so much so that we’re willing to pay significantly more for a room with a high presence of biophilia (even if we don’t realise that that’s what we’re paying for!) A room…
September 22, 2017
Biophilic Design as a key aspect of health and wellbeing is moving up the built environment agenda fast – and for good reason. With high rates of urbanisation, a rise in stress related illness and an increasing level of technological proliferation – it seems that we are moving ever further from the natural elements that…
March 18, 2016
Living within a consumer society means that retail environments play a central position in our everyday lives – in fact, retail covers 43% of the total value of commercial property1 and a recent House of Commons report stated that during 2014, consumers in the UK spent around a staggering £378 billion.2 Research has shown that…
January 21, 2016
Spending a long period of time on a task that requires intense focus and concentration can be mentally exhausting for the human brain. Within modern day working environments, we are required to remain attentive during different tasks and activities throughout the day. However, working under pressure, or for a vast period of time can increase…