Biophilic Design: A 2024 Hit

The Allure of Luxury Living Today Extnds Beyond Opulence and Convenience. Discerning Homeowners Now Demand Spaces that foster well-being, sustainability, and a Deeper Connection to Nature. In India, biophilic design is taking on unique dimensions, drawing from the country’s rich cultural heritage, biodiversity, and clientic diversity. From incorporating Ayurvedic Principles in Spatiial Layouts to Reviving indigenous materials in modern architecture, the biophilic movement is creating spaces that are in the functional as that they are inspirational. Developers are embracing biophilic Principles to Create Vertical Forests and Green Facades, Providing Residents With the Benefits of Nature While Maximising Urban Land Use. For example, in Mumbai, raheja universal introduced a High-Rise with Lush Green Terrace and Vertical Gardens that Extend Up the Building, Offering Each Unit a Connection to Nature. Similarly, dLF’s camellias in Gurugram boasts Expany Spaces Intersed with High-Rise Luxury Apartments.

Another Standout Example is Eros Sampornam, a project designed with a unique focus on open spaces and natural integration. While primarily a mid-Rise Development, Its Extensive Landscaped Gardens, Walking Trails, And Water Features Embody The Principles of BiOPHILIC DESIGN, MAKINAble Luxury Living in Greater Noida West. This project showcases how biophilic design can enhance the quality of life in both vertical and low-rest communities.

This paradigm shift is not just about aesthetics; It’s a response to press Global Challenges, Including Urban Stress, Environmental Degradation, and the Growing Importance of Mental Health.

1. Ayurvedic Integration

India’s ancient Wellness Science, Ayurveda, is Finding a modern expression in biophilic luxury houses. While Globally, Biophilic Design often Emphayses Greenery and Natural Light, The Indian Approach delves Deeper, Aligning Space with individual well-buring.

Luxury developments are now tailoring indoor environments to support Specific doshas , vata, Pittaand kapha – to enhance physical and emotional balance. For instance, homes designed for Pitta individuals incorporate cooling elements like indoor water features and light hues, while vata-Friendly designs focus on warmth and grounding textures, such as terracotta and bamboo.

Another emerging trend is Therapeutic Landscapes, Where Residential Gardens Include Ayurvedic Herbs Like Tulsi, Neem, and Brahmi. These not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also provide residence with access to plants that Promote healing and immunity.

In South India, developers are integrating wellness zones inspired by ayurvedic retreats. These include yoga becks, herbal spas, and meditation gardens that align with the principles of holistic health. By incorporating ayurvedic elements, biophilic design transcends its aesthetic value, offering residences a personalized sanctuary for rejuvenation.

2. Reviving indigenous materials

In India’s luxury real estate, the revival of indigenous materials is transforming biophilic design into a sustainable art form. Beyond Reducing Carbon Footprints, this movement celebrates the Country’s Rich Architectural Traditions and Craftsmanship.

Developers are Increasingly Turning to Materials Like Mud, Lime Plaster, And Stone-Long Used In India’s Vernacular Architecture-to create homes that are bot eco-farindly and luxurious. For example, clay tiles traditionally used in south Indian homes

A standout innovation is the use of compressed Stabilized Earth Blocks (CSEB), a modern take on Traditional Mud Bricks. These Blocks are Durable, Thermally Efficient, and Visually Striking, Making Them Ideal for Luxury Projects with a Biophilic Ethos.

Stone Jaali screen | Photo Credit: Getty Images/ISTOCK

Moreover, Artisanal Craftsmanship is Making A Comeback, With BESPOKE Installations Like Stone Jaali screens and carved Wooden Panels Gaining Prominence. These elements not only pay homage to India’s heritage but also optimise natural ventilation and lighting – Key Principles of Biophilic Design.

3. Sensory Engagement

Biophilic design in India is pushing the boundaries of sensory engagement, creating spaces that go beyond visual beauty to connect to connect with all five senses. Luxury Homes are Now Being Curated to Offer Multi-Sensory Experiences.

Developers are incorporating aromatherapy zones withbin residences, using essential oils extracited from native plants like Sandalwood, Jasmine, and Vetiver. These Aromas Evoke Calm and Nostalgia, fostering a serene ambiance. Similarly, Soundscapes Featuring Water Fountains, Wind Chimes, and Curated Playlists of Natural Sounds Such as Bird Calls or Rustling Leaves are taking a hallmark luxilic luxilic luxily.

Touch is another key focus area. High-Ed Residences Now Feature Tactile Materials Like Raw Silk, Polished Wood, and Textured Stone, Allowing Residents to Physically Connect with their surfaceings. Even Flooring is being reimagined with tactil Finishes that Feel Warm and Natural Underfoot.

In terms of lighting, the interplay of natural and artificial light is used to mimic daily rhythms, creating a dynamic living environment. For example, soft, different lighting that changes intensity through

4. eco-friendly technology

India’s luxury homes are Increasing Biaophilic Design with Smart Technology, Creating Spaces that are as efficient as they are eco-friendly. This fusion ensures Residents Experience The Best of Boths – Nature’s Transquillity and Modern Convenience.

Smart Irrigation Systems, For Instruction, Are Revolutionising Indoor and Outdoor Greenery Maintenance. These Systems Monitor Soil Moisture and Weather Conditions to Optimise Watering Schedules, ENSURING LUSH GARDENS with Minimal Resource Wastage.

Advanced Home Automation Systems are now integrating natural elements into daily living. From automated blinds that adjust to maximise natural light to air purifiers that replicate the quality of fresh mountain air, technology is enhancing biophlic experienceses.

Virtual Reality (VR) is also making its way into urban luxury apartments, where residences can immerse themselves in virtual natural settings. This is particularly released in dense cities

Additionally, biophilic apps are gaining traction, offering features These innovations are turning luxury homes into living ecosystems, making indian real estate a pioneer in tech-enabled sustainable living.

5. Community Programmes

Biophilic luxury is no longer confined to individual responses. Developers are now focusing on Community-Center Designs that Create Shared Green Spaces, Fostering a Sense of Belonging and Environmental Stewardship.

Luxury projects are incorporating urban farming initiatives, where Residents can grow organic production in community gardens. This not only promotes sustainability but also strengthens social bonds among residences. For example, in Bengaluru, developers have introduced rooftop gardens where residences can participate in Farming Workshops and Harvest his own vehicles.

Shared Green Spaces Like LandScped Courtyards, Walking Trails, and Open-AAR AMPHITHEATRES ARE BECEMING Center to Luxury Housing. These are designed to encourage interaction while providing a transaction from from urban chaos.

Another innovation is the creation of biodirsity corridors with residential complexes, supporting local flora and fauna. Native trees and water features are strategically integrated to Attract birds, butterflies, and small wildlife, enhancing the ecological value of the space.

The writer is director, eros group.