Research has now proven that there is a direct link between our health and wellbeing and the spaces in which we live and work, and where we spend up to 90% of our lives. Serious health issues can be exacerbated by poor ventilation, the presence of mould and toxic materials used in the construction of most modern homes. General wellbeing can also be affected by inadequate daylighting and a disconnection from nature. At Koru we embrace two design principles  that enhance health and wellbeing for building occupants:  biophilic design and building biology.

Biophilic design

Biophilia (“love of life”) and biophilic design is an architectural and interior design style which incorporates and mimics nature. It’s based on the idea that humans have an innate affiliation with nature, due to our evolutionary history.

Much research has shown spending time in nature has positive psychological and physiological effects. These effects can be recreated with indoor environments which are rich in nature and nature-inspired features. Numerous studies have shown strong correlations between spending time in nature or ‘biophilic’ buildings, and positive physiological effects, better mood, and higher productivity.

At Koru Architects we are keen to adopt biophilic principles into all our designs, whether it be for a new house or an addition to an existing home. Our designs will create strong connections between inside and outside, will bring daylight into every room where we can and will ensure the internal finishes and fittings are made from natural materials.

Building biology

Building biology is the study of the holistic relationships between humans and their built environment. The aim is to create a healthy, natural, sustainable, and beautifully designed living and working environment. In building biology, buildings and rooms are referred to as our “third skin,” which reflects how closely we are connected to our built environment.

In the selection of materials and the design of living environments, ecological, economic, and social aspects are considered. This includes providing healthy indoor air through good ventilation and avoiding the use of toxic materials; providing thermal comfort through good insulation and avoiding summer over-heating; providing human-based design to maximise daylighting and to nurture the senses; and selecting environmentally sustainable materials that are natural and will protect plants and animals.

As eco-architects we always seek to select natural materials and products for our projects to reduce the toxicity of indoor environments for our clients and their families and to reduce the embodied carbon footprint of a new home.

If you have a project in mind and you’d like to talk to us about ensuring your health and wellbeing in a new build home

please contact us at: info@koruarchitects.co.uk or call us on: 01273 204065

You can find the ninth and final chapter of our guide here: 'How Can We Help'