Biophilic design is often associated with buildings that include plants, water, and other natural features as part of the interior and exterior architecture. But biophilic design is more than adding some green plants and the sound of water.
In an Arch Daily article entitled, “Biophilic Architecture without Plants: Invisible Design for Wellbeing” by Ankitha Gattupalli (21 Apr 2025, https://www.archdaily.com/1029257/biophilic-architecture-without-plants-invisible-design-for-wellbeing) describes four “invisible principles” of biophilic design:
• Prospect
• Refuge
• Mystery
• Risk/Peril
Below are explanations of the four principles, and how window shading solutions can help architects use those principles in their designs.
Prospect
We humans evolved the desire to seek the broader perspective beyond our immediate surroundings as a way to get the jump on possible threats and find resources faster. While window placement is a key part of this, augmenting that with a properly designed shading system makes it easier to avoid glare issues and thus get the most out of the visual prospect.
Refuge
Humans also naturally seek protection. We need to feel safe even while we are staying in visual contact with the larger world outside. Again, shades can play a significant role in helping create a sense of refuge. Given the correct openness factor and color, shades provide a sense of both visual and psychological comfort by softening the prospect opened up by the windows.
Mystery
Another trait humans share is a sense of curiosity. We just can’t help ourselves – we love to ask questions, to explore a mystery. The same characteristics that make shades ideal for promoting a sense of refuge also come into play here. Through a combination of color and openness factor, shades obscure just enough of what is outside the window to pique our curiosity. This anticipation is even associated with the release of dopamine.
Risk/Peril
People love watching game shows like Floor is Lava and reading thrillers and horror novels because they can enjoy the exhilaration of peril without actually taking any risks. Architects can introduce this concept with features that hint at risk, such as height, water, and angles. Through the right color, openness factor, and correct scheduled deployment, shades enhance this “invisible principle.” They can add a sense of safety to a space with very large glazing, for example.
Of course, natural features, including water, greenery, and natural materials, are a must in biophilic design. But shades can be an important partner in subconsciously adding to the biophilic effects by helping address the four “invisible principles.”
Want to learn more? Contact your Draper representative today to find out what Draper shade is right for your next project!
