Salutogenic Design
Healthcare design for modern life and living
Salutogenic design is an approach to architecture, urban planning, and interior design that focuses on promoting health, well-being, and a sense of meaning in life, rather than simply preventing illness or minimizing risks (which is the focus of pathogenic design). The term comes from salutogenesis, a concept introduced by medical sociologist Aaron Antonovsky in the 1970s. Salutogenesis means “the origin of health” (salus = health, genesis = origin). It emphasizes factors that support human health and resilience, such as coherence, manageability, and meaningfulness in our environments.
Benefits of Biophillic design
It Biophilic design is a design approach that integrates natural elements into built environments to promote health, well-being, and productivity. It stems from the concept of biophilia — the human tendency to seek connections with nature. This approach is applied in architecture, interior design, urban planning, and workplace design.
Key Benefits of Biophilic Design
Improved Mental Health and Well-being
Reduces stress, anxiety, and depression.
Enhances mood and emotional resilience.
Supports mental restoration and calmness through natural elements like plants, water features, and natural light
Enhanced Physical Health
Improves air quality through indoor plants and ventilation.
Natural light regulates circadian rhythms, improving sleep.
Access to green spaces encourages physical activity.
Increased Productivity and Focus
Studies show that environments with natural elements can increase concentration and cognitive performance.
Noise reduction from natural materials and plant buffers helps focus.
Aesthetic Appeal and Comfort
Natural materials and organic patterns create visually pleasing spaces.
Enhances comfort and user satisfaction in homes, offices, and public spaces.
Higher Employee Engagement and Retention
In workplaces, biophilic design leads to greater job satisfaction and lower absenteeism.
Employees report higher creativity and engagement.
Sustainability and Environmental Benefits
Encourages use of renewable materials and passive design (e.g., natural ventilation and daylighting).
Supports biodiversity through green roofs, walls, and urban gardens.
Better Learning Outcomes
In educational environments, it improves students’ attention, behavior, and learning speed.
Reduces fatigue and promotes creativity.
Economic Advantages
Higher property value and market appeal.
Energy savings through natural lighting and ventilation.
Lower healthcare and operational costs.
