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Harmonizing Nature and Mind: Biophilic and Neuroarchitecture Synergies for Intelligent Buildings Enhancing Human Well-Being

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A special issue of Buildings (ISSN 2075-5309). This special issue belongs to the section "Architectural Design, Urban Science, and Real Estate".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (20 March 2026) | Viewed by 30454

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Special Issue Editors

Dr. Yangang Xing

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Guest Editor

School of Architecture Design and the Built Environment, Nottingham Trent Univesity, Nottingham NG1 4FQ, UK
Interests: architectural science; intelligent building technologies; smart cities; heritage; biophilia
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Prof. Dr. Alexander Sumich

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Guest Editor

School of Social Sciences, Nottingham Trent Univesity, Nottingham NG1 4FQ, UK
Interests: biological models of mental health; particularly depression; schizophrenia; maladaptive aggressive behaviour
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Dr. Jordan J. Bird

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Guest Editor

School of Science & Technology, Nottingham Trent Univesity, Nottingham NG1 4FQ, UK
Interests: artificial intelligence (AI); generative AI; human–robot interaction (HRI); machine learning (ML); deep learning; transfer learning; data augmentation
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Dr. Andrew Knight

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Guest Editor

School of Architecture Design and the Built Environment, Nottingham Trent Univesity, Nottingham NG1 4FQ, UK
Interests: professional ethics; biophilic design and mental health; social value; value management; supply chain management; green labelling; logistics management; housing supply and; planning in Africa
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Prof. Dr. Derek Clements-Croome

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Guest Editor

School of the Built Environment, Whiteknights, University of Reading, P.O. Box 219, Reading RG6 6AW, UK
Interests: health and well-being; design and management of intelligent buildings; sustainable liveable buildings; environmental sensory design; creating productive and creative workplaces
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The journal Buildings invites submissions for a Special Issue focused on “Harmonizing Nature and Mind: Biophilic and Neuroarchitecture Synergies for Intelligent Buildings Enhancing Human Well-Being”, seeking to rediscover the intersections between biophilic design and neuroarchitecture, and exploring innovative methods to integrate biophilic principles with neurological and sensor technologies. Our goal is to develop intelligent buildings that promote human well-being and productivity, laying the groundwork for resilient and sustainable architecture of the future.

We encourage contributions that delve into the following topics:

The Science of Biophilia: Research on how natural elements in the built environment can influence cognitive function, emotional health, and overall well-being;
Neuroarchitecture Principles: Exploring how understanding brain responses to architectural elements can inform design choices that enhance user experience in various building types;
Integrative Design Methods: Case studies or frameworks demonstrating successful integration of biophilic and neuroarchitectural principles in current building projects;
Technological Innovations: The role of sensing technologies and smart building systems in creating adaptive environments that respond to human needs and preferences;
Impact on Productivity: Assessments of how biophilic and neuroarchitectural designs contribute to improved workplace efficiency, creativity, and morale;
Sustainable Resilience: Strategies and designs that employ biophilic and neuroarchitectural concepts in response to climate change and environmental challenges;
User-Centred Design Approaches: Methodologies for engaging end users in the design process, ensuring that their needs and well-being are at the forefront of architectural decisions;
Cultural and Contextual Considerations: Examining how biophilic and neuroarchitectural designs can be adapted to reflect local cultures, histories, and ecosystems;
Future of Smart Cities: Insights into how integrating biophilic and neuroarchitectural principles can shape the development of smart cities that prioritize human experience alongside sustainability.

We invite researchers, practitioners, and thought leaders from architecture, environmental psychology, urban planning, and related fields to contribute original research, theoretical explorations, case studies, and essays that advance our understanding of this vital intersection.

Submission guidelines and deadlines can be found on the Buildings journal website. We look forward to your contributions that will inspire future advancements in creating intelligent buildings that harmonize nature and mind for enhanced human well-being.

Dr. Yan Xing
Prof. Dr. Alexander Sumich
Dr. Jordan J. Bird
Dr. Andrew Knight
Prof. Dr. Derek Clements-Croome
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Buildings is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

biophilic design
neuroarchitecture
human well-being
intelligent buildings
sustainable architecture
cognitive function
emotional health
nature integration
environmental psychology
resilient design

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Related Special Issue

Neuroarchitecture and Biophilic Design for Human Well-Being in Buildings

Published Papers (8 papers)

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Research

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20 pages, 672 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Neurobiophilia Index

by Mohamed Hesham Khalil and Koen Steemers

Buildings 2026, 16(3), 637; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16030637 - 3 Feb 2026

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1269

Abstract

This paper aims to establish the Neurobiophilia Index, a quantitative tool to assess environmental enrichment at the architectural scale based on neurobiological evidence. Using a literature review followed by an expert opinion workshop and deliberations, 10 items were identified: sky visibility, daylight, light/dark cycles, sound, odours, indoor plants, window green views, temperature, air quality, and materials. The index provides a symmetrical scoring system for each item based on the effect of its parameters on the brain: enrichment (+1), neutral (0), and harm (−1), facilitating assessment of architectural spaces and buildings to understand implications for neuroplasticity, with cognitive, mental health, stress recovery, and resilience outcomes. It is a useful tool for future research and provides a pathway toward advancing green building rating systems from sustainability to neurosustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Harmonizing Nature and Mind: Biophilic and Neuroarchitecture Synergies for Intelligent Buildings Enhancing Human Well-Being)

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17 pages, 4245 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Biophilic Therapeutic Framework for Ageing Well in Care Settings

by Carolyn Thomas, Yangang Xing, Andrew Knight and David J. Brown

Buildings 2025, 15(24), 4558; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15244558 - 17 Dec 2025

Viewed by 701

Abstract

Access to nature is fundamental to human health and wellbeing, yet opportunities for direct and frequent engagement with natural environments are often restricted for individuals in the 80+ age category, particularly those in care settings or living in remote locations. There is therefore an urgent need to enhance nature connections in care settings and provide personalised, restorative experiences that reflect individuals preferred natural features. This prefeasibility pilot study developed a framework to inform the design of therapeutic care settings, grounded in the principles of biophilic neuroarchitecture and designed to support ageing well. Conducted over six months in two care environments, the study applied the biophilic pattern of Complexity and Order to simulate Natural Analogues within immersive virtual settings. Mixed methods combining wearable sensor data and self-reported wellbeing measures were used to assess psychophysiological, emotional, and cognitive responses among participants aged 80 and above. Findings revealed that VR content aligned with individual nature preferences elicited higher levels of engagement, relaxation, and positive affect. This study demonstrates the potential for implementing biophilic design applications to develop therapeutic care settings which promote wellbeing and healthy ageing, particularly where access to real nature is infrequent or limited. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Harmonizing Nature and Mind: Biophilic and Neuroarchitecture Synergies for Intelligent Buildings Enhancing Human Well-Being)

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33 pages, 26476 KB

Open AccessArticle

Environmental Design Innovation in Hospitality: A Sustainable Framework for Evaluating Biophilic Interiors in Rooftop Restaurants

by Ibrahim A. Elshaer, Alaa M. S. Azazz, Mohamed A. Zayed, Faleh A. Ameen, Sameh Fayyad, Amr Mohamed Fouad, Eslam Ahmed Fathy and Amira Hamdy

Buildings 2025, 15(19), 3474; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15193474 - 25 Sep 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4293

Abstract

Biophilic design (BD) has become one of the most critical design approaches for improving the user experience and sustainability in hospitality settings. This paper examines how Biophilic Design Elements (BDEs) can be integrated into the interior architecture of rooftop restaurants and how the presence of BDEs can enhance guest satisfaction and restaurant operations. The study is based on the Nature Preferences Theory (NPT) and Dynamic Capabilities Theory (DCT), creating a framework that explores the relationship between biophilic principles and measurable user outcomes, as well as design innovation. A mixed-methods design was employed, where qualitative insights gathered from a Delphi panel of interior design and hospitality professionals were integrated with quantitative data collected through guest surveys. The study suggested that some high-performance BDEs, which are natural materials, utilise daylight, greenery, and water, as well as culturally embedded design motifs. The results indicate that users are positive about an environment with principles of well-being, authenticity, and sensory connection with nature. Researchers focused on context-sensitive, flexible, and low-cost strategies that are adaptable to rooftops in developing urban cities. The study is significant as it presents real-life biophilic design methods applicable in hospitality environments atop buildings and demonstrates how they may align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The suggested framework applies to both academic studies and the industry, focusing future designs on nature, user experience, and operational sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Harmonizing Nature and Mind: Biophilic and Neuroarchitecture Synergies for Intelligent Buildings Enhancing Human Well-Being)

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31 pages, 16050 KB

Open AccessArticle

Biomimetic Opaque Ventilated Façade for Low-Rise Buildings in Hot Arid Climate

by Ahmed Alyahya, Simon Lannon and Wassim Jabi

Buildings 2025, 15(14), 2491; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15142491 - 16 Jul 2025

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2283

Abstract

Enhancing the thermal performance of building façades is vital for reducing energy demand in hot desert climates, where envelope heat gain increases cooling loads. This study investigates the integration of biomimicry into opaque ventilated façade (OVF) systems as a novel approach to reduce façade surface temperatures. Thirteen bio-inspired façade configurations, modeled after strategies observed in nature, were evaluated using computational fluid dynamics simulations to assess their effectiveness in increasing airflow and reducing inner skin surface temperatures. Results show that all proposed biomimetic solutions outperformed the baseline OVF in terms of thermal performance, with the wide top mound configuration achieving the greatest temperature reduction—up to 5.9 °C below the baseline OVF and 16.4 °C below an unventilated façade. The study introduces an innovative methodology that derives façade design parameters from nature and validates them through simulation. These findings highlight the potential of nature-based solutions to improve building envelope performance in extreme climates. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Harmonizing Nature and Mind: Biophilic and Neuroarchitecture Synergies for Intelligent Buildings Enhancing Human Well-Being)

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21 pages, 8251 KB

Open AccessArticle

Quantifying Thermal Demand in Public Space: A Pedestrian-Weighted Model for Outdoor Thermal Comfort Design

by Deyin Zhang, Gang Liu, Kaifa Kang, Xin Chen, Shu Sun, Yongxin Xie and Borong Lin

Buildings 2025, 15(13), 2156; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15132156 - 20 Jun 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1685

Abstract

With accelerating urbanization, the outdoor thermal environment has become a critical factor affecting the thermal comfort of public spaces, particularly in high-density commercial districts and pedestrian-concentrated areas. To enhance thermal comfort and livability in public outdoor space, this study proposes a thermal demand-responsive design approach that integrates thermal conditions with pedestrian flow dynamics. A commercial pedestrian mall featuring semi-open public spaces and air-conditioned interior retail areas was selected as a case study. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations were conducted based on design-phase documentation and field measurements to model the thermal environment. The Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI) was employed to assess thermal comfort levels, and thermal discomfort was further quantified using the Heat Discomfort Index (HI). Simultaneously, pedestrian density distribution (λ) was analyzed using the agent-based simulation software MassMotion (Version 11.0). A demand of thermal comfort (DTC) index was developed by coupling UTCI-based thermal conditions with pedestrian density, enabling the spatial quantification of thermal demand across the whole commercial pedestrian mall. For example, in a sidewalk area parallel to the main street, several points exhibited high discomfort levels (HI = 0.95) but low pedestrian volume, resulting in DTC values approximately 0.2 units lower than adjacent zones with lower discomfort levels (HI = 0.7) but higher foot traffic. Such differences demonstrate how DTC can reveal priority areas for intervention. Key zones requiring thermal improvement were identified based on DTC values, providing a quantitative foundation for outdoor thermal environment design. This method provides both a theoretical foundation and a practical tool for the sustainable planning and optimization of urban public spaces. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Harmonizing Nature and Mind: Biophilic and Neuroarchitecture Synergies for Intelligent Buildings Enhancing Human Well-Being)

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Review

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32 pages, 4870 KB

Open AccessReview

Biophilic Design Interventions and Properties: A Scoping Review and Decision-Support Framework for Restorative and Human-Centered Buildings

by Alireza Sedghikhanshir and Raffaella Montelli

Buildings 2026, 16(3), 515; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16030515 - 27 Jan 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1377

Abstract

Humans have an inherent connection to nature, and exposure to natural elements has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and support cognitive performance, forming the basis of biophilic design in the built environment. However, existing biophilic design guidance remains largely conceptual and offers limited evidence-based direction on how design properties should be applied. This scoping review addresses this gap by systematically mapping and synthesizing empirical evidence on indoor biophilic design interventions and their properties. Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines, 136 studies published between 2000 and 2025 were reviewed across seven intervention types, including green walls, indoor plants, window views, natural light, natural materials, water features, and nature-inspired visual references. Cross-category analyses identified design properties most consistently associated with restorative outcomes and human cognitive and physiological responses. The findings highlight the importance of moderate greenery levels, high-visibility placement, multi-sensory integration, and the enhanced restorative effects of combining multiple interventions. Contextual factors such as exposure duration and user characteristics were found to influence effectiveness. Based on these findings, the study introduces the Biophilic Intensity Matrix (BIMx), a matrix-based decision-support framework that supports early-stage design by helping designers select biophilic intervention types and compare their relative scale and intensity ranges according to exposure duration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Harmonizing Nature and Mind: Biophilic and Neuroarchitecture Synergies for Intelligent Buildings Enhancing Human Well-Being)

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40 pages, 4319 KB

Open AccessReview

Biophilic Design in the Built Environment: Trends, Gaps and Future Directions

by Bekir Hüseyin Tekin, Gizem Izmir Tunahan, Zehra Nur Disci and Hatice Sule Ozer

Buildings 2025, 15(14), 2516; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15142516 - 17 Jul 2025

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 15817

Abstract

Biophilic design has emerged as a multidimensional response to growing concerns about health, well-being, and ecological balance in the built environment. Despite its rising prominence, research on the topic remains fragmented across building typologies, user groups, and geographic contexts. This study presents a comprehensive review of the biophilic design literature, employing a hybrid methodology combining structured content analysis and bibliometric mapping. All peer-reviewed studies indexed in the Web of Science and Scopus were manually screened for architectural relevance and systematically coded. A total of 435 studies were analysed to identify key trends, thematic patterns, and research gaps in the biophilic design discipline. This review categorises the literature by methodological strategies, building typologies, spatial scales, population groups, and specific biophilic design parameters. It also examines geographic and cultural dimensions, including climate responsiveness, heritage buildings, policy frameworks, theory development, pedagogy, and COVID-19-related research. The findings show a strong emphasis on institutional contexts, particularly workplaces, schools, and healthcare, and a reliance on perception-based methods such as surveys and experiments. In contrast, advanced tools like artificial intelligence, simulation, and VR are notably underused. Few studies engage with neuroarchitecture or neuroscience-informed approaches, despite growing recognition of how spatial design can influence cognitive and emotional responses. Experimental and biometric methods remain scarce among the few relevant contributions, revealing a missed opportunity to connect biophilic strategies with empirical evidence. Regarding biophilic parameters, greenery, daylight, and sensory experience are the most studied parameters, while psychological parameters remain underexplored. Cultural and climate-specific considerations appear in relatively few studies, and many fail to define a user group or building typology. This review highlights the need for more inclusive, context-responsive, and methodologically diverse research. By bridging macro-scale bibliometric patterns with fine-grained thematic insights, this study provides a replicable review model and valuable reference for advancing biophilic design as an evidence-based, adaptable, and human-centred approach to sustainable architecture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Harmonizing Nature and Mind: Biophilic and Neuroarchitecture Synergies for Intelligent Buildings Enhancing Human Well-Being)

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Other

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29 pages, 4487 KB

Open AccessProject Report

Designing for Health and Learning: Lessons Learned from a Case Study of the Evidence-Based Health Design Process for a Rooftop Garden at a Danish Social and Healthcare School

by Ulrika K. Stigsdotter and Lene Lottrup

Buildings 2026, 16(2), 393; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16020393 - 17 Jan 2026

Viewed by 799

Abstract

This article presents a case study from a Social and Health Care School in Denmark, where a rooftop garden was designed to promote student health and support nature-based teaching across subject areas. A novel aspect of the project is the formal integration of the garden into teaching, implying that its long-term impact may extend beyond the students to the end-users they will later encounter in nursing homes and hospitals nationwide. This study applies the Evidence-Based Health Design in Landscape Architecture (EBHDL) process model, encompassing evidence collection, programming, and concept design, with the University of Copenhagen acting in a consultancy role. A co-design process with students and teachers was included as a novel source of case-specific evidence. Methodologically, this is a participatory practice-based case study focusing on the full design and construction processes, combining continuous documentation with reflective analysis of ‘process insights,’ generating lessons learned from the application of the EBHDL process model. This study identifies two categories of lessons learned. First, general insights emerged concerning governance, stakeholder roles, and the critical importance of site selection, procurement, and continuity of design responsibility. Second, specific insights were gained regarding the application of the EBHDL model, including its alignment with Danish and international standardised construction phases. These insights are particularly relevant for project managers in nature-based initiatives. The results also show how the EBHDL model aligns with Danish and international standardised construction phases, offering a bridge between health design methods and established building practice. The case focuses on the EBHDL process rather than verified outcomes and demonstrates how evidence-based and participatory approaches can help structure complex design processes, facilitate stakeholder engagement, and support decision-making in institutional projects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Harmonizing Nature and Mind: Biophilic and Neuroarchitecture Synergies for Intelligent Buildings Enhancing Human Well-Being)

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