Abstract

Biophilic design, or designing experiences of nature, has grown in appeal and scientific justification in the last two decades. Hundreds of studies have identified strong impacts of exposure to nature on many of the human behaviors and capabilities that underpin our entire economy. Unfortunately, wellness promoting design features are systematically underinvested because of a lack of clarity on their economic benefits. This publication argues in favor of biophilic design by examining scientific studies of the effects of nature on human productivity, preferences, and health in a variety of space types, and by assigning economic values to these outcomes as justification for investment.

This second edition of The Economics of Biophilia is a complete rewrite of the first edition, saving a few favorite studies and financial extrapolations from the first edition and introducing many new ones. We have also incorporated a chapter on Hospitality, and added case studies and practical Do-It-Yourself tips to each chapter. It draws on our experiences of supporting clients on developing biophilic design strategies and the most cost effective ways to implement them.

The publication release is anticipated for early 2023.

Acknowledgements

Sponsorship

This report is made possible in part with the support of Interface. The opinions and conclusions in this report are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the sponsor or peer reviewers.

Authorship

Catie Ryan, Terrapin Bright Green
Bill Browning, Terrapin Bright Green
Dakota Walker, Terrapin Bright Green

Editorial Support

Paula Melton, BuildingGreen

Citation

Catherine O. Ryan, Dakota B. Walker, & William D. Browning (2023). The economics of biophilia: Why designing with nature in mind makes financial sense. New York: Terrapin Bright Green, LLC. http://www.terrapinbrightgreen.com/report/economics-of-biophilia-2nd-ed