Biophilic Design and Healthy Living in Mexican Architecture

Urban gardens and planters

There is a great global challenge in architecture, where aesthetics and functionality are sought with a new approach towards sustainability and improving the quality of life of users. It is not only the duty of the State to preserve natural ecosystems, but also of the communities to protect the reserves that Mexico has in its various regions, climates and biodiversity. Contribute from the individual with diversity and freedom, being consistent with our way of seeing life. Architects, through an emerging naturalistic concept, can find solutions adapted to local ecosystems, adjusting to reduced budgets, whether in the arid environments of the north or the hot and humid ones of the southeast. The natural elements integrated into the architectural design will significantly improve the quality of life of Mexicans. Our natural wealth depends on us, but those of us who live in cities can also contribute by improving our homes with a new vision of naturalistic design.

Biophilic design is an architectural approach that originates from naturalism and aims to connect people with nature within built spaces, by incorporating natural elements such as light, water, plants and natural materials, as well as creating views towards natural environments. This type of design, by creating healthier and more pleasant environments, improves mental and emotional well-being, reduces stress and increases productivity. Next, I will address how naturalism applied to architecture can improve our lives, by incorporating these elements.

Natural Elements in Architectural Design

green wall

Use of natural light

In regions of Mexico with abundant sun (such as the north and center), the use of windows, domes and open spaces encourages the entry of sunlight, reducing the need for artificial lighting and promoting a healthy circadian rhythm. In the south, where the light can be excessive, pergolas and adjustable blinds can be used to control the intensity.

Natural ventilation and air purification

Cross ventilation, when applied correctly, helps maintain a cool and healthy indoor environment. In cities with high pollution, such as Mexico City, natural ventilation should be combined with Dyson purifiers, effective in eliminating PM2.5, PM10, VOC, NO2 particles.[1] and regulate humidity. It is recommended to place these devices on opposite sides of windows, near sources of indoor pollution such as kitchens and parking areas, and in places without obstacles to facilitate air circulation, ensuring a clean and healthy environment.

Sustainable materials from the region

The use of materials such as wood, bamboo, stone and other natural materials contributes to a healthier environment, minimizing exposure to toxic chemicals and providing a visual and tactile connection with nature. Additionally, in regions such as Oaxaca and Chiapas, the use of local materials supports the regional economy and culture.

 

Biophilic design

Dome with interior garden

Plant elements inside and outside

Vertical gardens, flower pots, green roofs and interior patios improve air quality by filtering pollutants and reducing stress, improving the psychological environment. Species such as bamboo or fern can be incorporated indoors, and can be purchased at nurseries and stores such as Home Depot. In addition, other plants such as basil, mint and peppermint can repel mosquitoes, avoiding the use of harmful insecticides in the long term.

aquatic elements

Fountains and ponds not only add an aesthetic element, but also moisture and a relaxing sound. In dry areas of northern Mexico, these features can significantly improve comfort and air quality.

Exterior views

Having views of nature through windows that frame natural landscapes or by creating outdoor spaces such as terraces and balconies improves mental health, providing a visual connection with the natural environment and reducing stress in urban environments.

Practices for a healthy life with architecture

Indoor planters and light openings

Energy efficiency

The integration of sustainable and energy efficient technologies, such as solar panels and rainwater collection systems, reduces environmental impact and creates healthy and economic spaces, being an efficient long-term investment.

Waste management

Implementing systems and promoting recycling contributes to a cleaner and healthier environment, minimizing pollution and creating a more sustainable life cycle. It is important to send all unused electronic devices and batteries to recycling centers, when possible.

Indoor air quality

In addition to vegetation such as the Areca Palm, Mother-in-Law's Tongue, Pothos or the Bamboo Palm in pots, the use of air purifiers and smart vacuum cleaners such as those from iRobot are essential to eliminate dust and allergens. I recommend an interior design with smooth floors and cable management through channels in walls to facilitate the work of these robots, maintaining an environment free of contaminants.

Exercise spaces

By dedicating a 2.4 x 2.4m space with a mat or modular polystyrene pieces, we can create a small home gym to meditate, do yoga, incorporate a treadmill or leave it free. This space does not necessarily have to be equipped with appliances, you can install a TV with a wall mount and access exercise applications and YouTube videos to encourage regular physical exercise, essential for health. For decoration, you can incorporate bamboo plants, paint with light colors, use a speaker to create sounds of nature and take advantage of natural light, creating a place of peace in our home, enriching the physical and mental state.

healthy cooking

As architects, it is always our duty to design a kitchen with an efficient work triangle between the stove, refrigerator and work space, with circulation widths greater than 1.20m to facilitate the preparation of healthy foods. It is also important to use local ingredients and prepare meals at home instead of ordering fast food, a skill that can help increase life expectancy.

Urban gardens

There is no strict rule or definition about their characteristics and dimensions, but they can be created in small gardens, pots or terraces to plant vegetables and medicinal plants, providing fresh food and encouraging activities where household members participate in cultivation, care and harvest, strengthening social ties.

Pollutant management

In metropolitan areas, we are exposed to pollutants such as PM2.5, PM10, VOC and NO2[2], coming from dust, greenhouse gases, cleaning products, kitchens and car gases in garages. The health risks are gradual and reduce life expectancy. Using natural cleaning products such as vinegar, incorporating natural plants and keeping spaces well ventilated with purifiers helps reduce these risks.

Decoration Tips

Backyard with river stone and natural elements

Create minimalist spaces

Get rid of objects that do not contribute anything to your life and keep little furniture, leaving spaces without obstacles that improve air circulation and facilitate cleaning. Use light colors and natural materials such as wood, fabrics and stones to achieve a minimalist and healthy environment.

Green wall modules

Create DIY projects to achieve green walls on terraces or interiors, adding a natural touch that evokes the connection with nature. If this is not possible, flower pots can also be proposed in work, study and rest areas, improving both aesthetics and mental well-being.

Final considerations

Although current governments encourage the destruction of federal reserves by cutting down 10 million trees in the Mexican southeast and betting on dirty energy, as a society we have to do something to create sustainable environments, starting with our homes. Naturalistic and sustainable architecture represents an evolution towards a future where our well-being and respect for the environment are fundamental priorities. By integrating natural elements, biophilic designs, and sustainable practices, architects can create spaces that are not only visually appealing, but also promote healthy, balanced living. This holistic approach to architectural design has the potential to transform our cities and communities, providing environments that nourish both body and mind.

I invite you to see my portfolio of projects, where you can see examples of how I have implemented these principles to create healthy and sustainable environments. Together with a team of expert consultants, I am prepared to advise you personally and help you create that healthy environment you so desire. It is not just about decorating interiors so that they look beautiful, but about seeking a higher quality of life.

Sustainable design

[1] PM2.5:fine particles with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less. They are small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs and cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems.

PM10:inhalable particles with a diameter of 10 micrometers or less. They can cause respiratory problems and affect lung health.

VOC:volatile organic compounds. They are chemicals that are emitted as gases from certain solids or liquids and can have short- and long-term adverse health effects, including eye, nose, and throat irritations, headaches, and damage to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system.

NO2:nitrogen dioxide. A toxic gas that can irritate the airways and reduce lung function, aggravating respiratory problems such as asthma. 

For more information:https://www.cdc.gov/air-quality/pollutants/index.htmlaccessed June 27, 2024.

[2] Ibid.