Biophilic Integration in Urban High-Rise Design - A Construction Management Perspective on Enhancing Indoor Air Quality and Well-Being

Abstract

Urban high-rise developments, while addressing urban space constraints, often neglect human health factors, particularly indoor air quality (IAQ) and well-being. This study explores how biophilic design—the integration of natural elements into architecture—can enhance IAQ and overall wellness in high-rise buildings. Based on case studies, surveys, interviews,andliteraturereviews,thispaperidentifiesthebenefitsofelementslikegreenwalls,indoorplants,daylighting,and water features. By applying a construction management perspective, the paper offers an implementation framework for integrating biophilic design into high-rise projects. Findings suggest that biophilic design significantly improves IAQ, occupant satisfaction, and energy efficiency. However, the research also highlights challenges such as the initial cost, long-term maintenance,andspaceconstraints.Thispaperaimstoguidedevelopers,architects,andconstructionmanagersinadopting biophilicdesignforhealthierurbanlivingenvironments.

Introduction

Rapid urbanization has increased high-rise buildings, raising concerns about indoor air quality (IAQ) and occupant well-being. Biophilic design, which incorporates natural elements like plants, ventilation, and daylight, offers solutions to improve IAQ, reduce stress, boost productivity, and enhance sustainability in dense urban settings.

The study used literature reviews, surveys, interviews, and case studies (e.g., Milan’s Bosco Verticale) to examine benefits and challenges of biophilic design in high-rises. Key findings highlight improved air quality and health, psychological benefits, and energy efficiency, while noting challenges such as high costs, maintenance, and limited space. Green facades and walls are preferred strategies over rooftop gardens due to structural constraints.

Conclusion

Theintegrationofbiophilicdesigninurbanhigh-risearchitectureoffersapromisingpathtowardhealthier, more sustainable living environments. This study, grounded in both qualitative and quantitative analysis, highlights the tangible benefits of incorporating natural elements into high-rise buildings—most notably the improvement of indoor air quality and enhancement of occupant well-being. Survey responses from residentsand professionals indicate that while challenges such as cost, maintenance, and regulatory hurdles persist, the perceived gains in air quality, stress reduction, and energy performance make biophilic design a worthwhile investment. Case studies like Bosco Verticale and Parkroyal Pickering serve as valuable benchmarks, demonstrating how thoughtfully implemented green infrastructure can reduce carbon emissions, regulate indoor temperatures, and elevate the overall urban living experience. Findings also emphasize that the success of such integration hinges on early-stage planning, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and the adoption of innovative technologies thataddress long-term maintenance and resource efficiency. Fromaconstructionmanagementperspective,thisresearchunderscorestheimportanceofaligningdesignintentwithoperationalfeasibility.Bytreatingbiophilicdesignnotasastylisticadditionbutasacore component of high-rise development, architects, engineers, and developers can collectively reshape the urban fabric to better respond to the needs of both people and the environment.

References

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Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Janhavi Ashok Raut, Prof. Ar. Akalpita Joshi. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.