Biophilic Design Meets Wellness: New Blueprint for Indian Urban Homes

In an interaction with Homes India Magazine, Ar. Bhumit Shah, Founder & Principal Architect of 18 Studiioz, shares how biophilia and nature-focused architectural approaches are becoming increasingly important as India's urban homes decrease in size. By providing various examples, he explains how to include nature in cities and in smaller apartments and homes in a practical way by implementing natural materials, greenery, and daylight, to promote health and well-being.

Bhumit Shah is a professional architect. He has extensive experience in the areas of architecture, interiors, and sustainable design. He has developed a unique skill set around biophilic design, specifically for small urban homes. 

How can Indian homeowners identify the key elements of biophilic design, and why is integrating nature-centric architecture becoming vital in today’s urban lifestyle? 

In the rapidly urbanizing setting of India, most residents are crowded in small flats, which are becoming smaller and have limited access to open areas. The architecture based on nature-centric principles is thus becoming necessary. 

The design of biophilia is centered on the establishment of a smooth connection between the natural environment and the house owner. Major components are cross ventilation, organic components, indoor plantation, water features, and natural color schemes. It also entails the non-physical elements, like the soft movement of air and shapes that replicate elements of nature. Combined, these aspects re-link communities with nature and bring a grounding equilibrium in urban living of modern times.

What practical biophilic design strategies can be implemented in compact Indian apartments where space, ventilation, and natural light are limited? 

Smart planning is key. Homeowners have the ability to build vertical green walls or narrow planters, mirrors, and reflective surfaces to reflect daylight and introduce breathable partition walls or skylights in more interior designs. 

Nature can be introduced into the home using materials such as bamboo, rattan, jute, and natural stone, as well as indoor plants that do not need much light. Greenery can also be incorporated into everyday life by placing it in window sills and open shelving without necessarily occupying more floor space.

Also Read: Sustainability Meets Style: Rise of Eco-Friendly Bathroom Accessories

How do wellness-focused design principles like circadian lighting, indoor air quality enhancements, and ergonomic layouts improve mental and physical well-being in urban homes?

Wellness architecture is the balance of houses with the biological rhythm. Circadian lighting can imitate the cycle of natural sunlight, which helps in the quality of sleep, hormonal equilibrium, and daytime energy. 

It is possible to improve indoor air quality with the help of green-certified plants, natural fabrics, and cross ventilation, and improve headaches, respiratory-related problems, and asthma triggers. Ergonomic chairs, clean areas, and human-friendly designs will avoid stress and encourage clarity of mind, efficiency, and health in general.

How are emerging technologies such as smart sensors, air purification systems, green-certified products, and AI-driven energy optimization shaping the next phase of wellness architecture in Indian homes? 

The new technologies, such as smart sensors, air-cleaning devices, AI-enhanced power optimization, and green-certified products, are transforming the wellness architecture into a design trend to a quantifiable and performance-focused approach. 

Smart sensors monitor air quality, natural light, and humidity, whereas air purification, coupled with natural ventilation, provides healthy indoor environments. The lighting, cooling, appliances, and space utilization are optimized with the help of automation and AI, enhancing the energy efficiency without affecting the comfort.

Also Read: Smart Sustainability - The New Benchmark of Value in Real Estate

What long-term trends, innovations, and policy changes will influence the future of biophilic design and wellness architecture in India’s fast-growing urban housing market? 

Green building policy and various green certifications, such as the GRIHA and LEED, are being encouraged through policies, as well as subsidies on eco-friendly materials. GreenWalls made of bio-based materials, smart building systems, and modular walls are becoming standard. 

Wellness architecture is becoming more of a feature to be expected and less of an option. The current trend has seen the homebuyer giving preference to healthier and sustainable materials, low-energy lighting, and cross-ventilated layouts that are flexible. It will be a lucrative and emerging market in India, and it is highly sustainable and wellness-oriented.