Brontie Bennett, Product Marketing Manager for Gradus, discusses the importance of adopting biophilic design principles in education settings to not only enhance aesthetics, but to help meet the needs of tomorrow’s learners.
In the UK, children typically spend 190 days in school each year and the environment around them can greatly impact the way they learn, their concentration and their overall wellbeing.
With an ever-growing focus on children’s mental health in schools, which encompasses guidance and resources from the UK Government, there are many ways in which schools can help students and support their mental health and wellbeing. In turn, this encourages them to engage in learning and set themselves up positively for the future.
One way that education environments can do this is by adopting biophilic design principles, which are proven to reduce stress and increase concentration.
What is biophilic design?
Biophilic design is a principle used by architects and designers to help connect building residents with nature by incorporating natural elements into their design. It is proven to help improve cognitive function, reduce stress and increase creativity, which are crucial aspects to consider when designing in schools.
Research conducted in 2024 by PHD student Tim Baber from the University of Melbourne included a case study from two Australian schools who adopted biophilic design elements, such as outdoor terraces, views of natural areas, indoor plants and surrounding trees and shrubs, to see the effect it would have on the students.
In all photo essays submitted by the students as part of the project, it was indicated that they “valued the biophilic elements as sources of inspiration, stress relief and optimism,” proving how effective these measures can be when incorporated within educational settings.
Not only do biophilic elements have a positive impact on stress and inspiration, but they can also enhance students’ overall wellbeing, engagement and academic performance.
Creating a calming learning experience
Creating spaces in schools, colleges and universities that are restful and considered can help to reduce stress and anxiety, boost motivation. This allows students to feel overall more comfortable in the classroom setting, which in turn can encourage them to feel more confident in asking questions and contributing in classes.
Utilising natural materials, maximising natural sunlight and incorporating earthy colours and textures within classroom design can all help to improve mood, create comfort and foster a connection to nature.
Supporting mental health and wellbeing using biophilic principles
While it’s proven that being within nature has a positive effect on children’s mental health, this is not always possible in a classroom or school setting.
If a school is subject to space constraints, there are options available to incorporate biophilic design while making the most of usable space, such as incorporating inspiring murals which feature natural elements and imagery.
There are several ways to do this, but one of the most effective applications is by using a digitally printed PVC-u wall cladding, such as Gradus’ SureProtect Artworx. SureProtect Artworx allows bespoke designs to be printed onto its surface, ranging from colourful motifs to nature-inspired artwork.
In doing this, schools can integrate biophilic principles through nature-themed prints to help reduce stress and anxiety levels, as exposure to nature is proven to naturally increase serotonin and dopamine, which contributes to mood and wellbeing.
Selecting the right methods
It’s not only crucial to choose products and themes that enhance aesthetics and have a positive effect on students, but also to select those which offer protection and increase safety.
Choosing a PVC-u Wall Protection System for education interiors not only offers the opportunity for personalisation but also provides protection to the walls it’s installed on.
Schools are high-traffic buildings, and the walls are often subject to bumps, scuffs and scrapes and general wear and tear from tables, chairs and trolleys, as well as bags. This can cost hundreds, if not thousands of pounds for schools to rectify when the initial damage was entirely preventable.
A Wall Protection System consisting of Corner Guards and Wall Guards protects surfaces and provides an essential barrier against damage caused by the general flow of wheeled and pedestrian traffic. It aides with cleaning and helps to reduce long-term maintenance and refurbishment costs.
The evolving landscape of education demands spaces that are not only functional but also inspiring and adaptable to the needs of tomorrow’s learners. As experts in the field, your vision and expertise are vital in creating educational spaces that inspire and empower the next generation. By embracing innovative biophilic design principles, you can lead the way in transforming educational environments.To find out more about how Gradus can help introduce biophilic design into future projects, please visit: https://www.gradus.com/.