Transforming spaces, uplifting minds...
Biophilic design for education... give it a listen.
Portfolio
Meet the team of skilled biophilic designers
Biophilic Design for Schools, Indoor and Outdoor Spaces
At Biophilic Designer, our work is born from a deep love of nature, garden design, and a passion for using the healing power of nature to transform spaces for those who need it most. Humans are inherently designed to live, breathe, and thrive amidst natural environments, yet we spend up to 90% of our time indoors. This disconnect from nature can affect both our physical and mental wellbeing.
Our mission is to design indoor and outdoor spaces that reconnect people with nature. Using scientifically proven principles of biophilic design—such as natural daylight, organic patterns, nature-inspired colors, and other sensory elements—we create environments that restore the mind, enhance emotional wellbeing, and foster a sense of attachment and comfort.
Biophilic Design in Education
Schools are a key focus of our work. Integrating biophilic design in educational settings can improve student attendance, encourage social interaction, and boost teacher engagement. By creating nature-connected classrooms, playgrounds, and learning environments, we aim to make a tangible, positive impact on education.
There has never been a more important time to enhance learning environments with nature. At Biophilic Designer, we are dedicated to bringing the benefits of biophilic design to schools and public spaces, helping people thrive through the power of nature.
Lisa Norton is one of the UK’s few Level 4 qualified biophilic designers, with a strong foundation in horticulture, garden design, and external landscaping. Her scientific yet creative approach to nature-based design brings depth and authenticity to every project, from classrooms to courtyards.
Her work at the West Riding Communication and Interaction Specialist Provision in Barnsley, South Yorkshire, is a pioneering example of biophilic design in UK Special Educational Needs (SEN) schools. Designed for students aged 11–16 with communication and interaction difficulties, the project demonstrates how biophilic principles can transform education. The impact reaches far beyond the classroom—enhancing wellbeing for children, teachers, parents, and the wider community.
By weaving natural light, greenery, and sensory-rich outdoor landscapes into schools, Lisa creates environments that nurture both academic growth and emotional wellbeing. Her work shows that biophilic design, when applied holistically, fosters thriving, resilient communities and a deeper connection with the natural world.
Her work at the West Riding Communication and Interaction Specialist Provision in Barnsley, South Yorkshire, is a pioneering example of biophilic design in UK Special Educational Needs (SEN) schools. Designed for students aged 11–16 with communication and interaction difficulties, the project demonstrates how biophilic principles can transform education. The impact reaches far beyond the classroom—enhancing wellbeing for children, teachers, parents, and the wider community.
By weaving natural light, greenery, and sensory-rich outdoor landscapes into schools, Lisa creates environments that nurture both academic growth and emotional wellbeing. Her work shows that biophilic design, when applied holistically, fosters thriving, resilient communities and a deeper connection with the natural world.
Biophilic design benefits...
Biophilic Design in Schools: Benefits for Students and Teachers
Biophilic classrooms bring natural light, greenery, and nature-inspired materials into learning spaces, improving wellbeing and performance.
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Boosts focus and attention: Natural elements restore concentration and reduce mental fatigue.
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Reduces stress: Calming environments support emotional wellbeing for students and teachers.
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Encourages creativity and engagement: Nature-rich spaces inspire curiosity and active learning.
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Improves health and attendance: Daylight and fresh air promote better sleep, immunity, and fewer absences.
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Strengthens school culture: Biophilic design fosters collaboration, positive relationships, and a sense of community.
Biophilic design helps schools create healthier, happier environments where both children and teachers can thrive.
Education
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Outdoor Spaces
What is Biophilic Design
Biophilic design is an approach to architecture and environmental design that reconnects people with nature. It recognizes our inherent need to be close to natural elements and incorporates features like natural light, greenery, flowing water, fresh air, and organic patterns into the built environment.
In schools, biophilic design can enhance students’ physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Classrooms, playgrounds, and learning spaces that reflect the natural world can improve focus, social interaction, and engagement, while also creating a calming and inspiring environment.
Designers, architects, and educators work together to integrate nature into educational spaces, creating environments that support both learning and well-being. By prioritizing our connection to nature, biophilic design helps students and teachers thrive in spaces that feel healthy, stimulating, and restorative.
The Benefits of Biophilic Design
Biophilic design is more than adding plants or natural materials into a space—it is a complete approach that reconnects people with nature from the very first design concept through to the long-term care and maintenance of a space.
Research shows that biophilic environments enhance focus, reduce stress, lift mood, and support overall wellbeing. In schools and communities, this translates into better learning, stronger social interaction, and healthier, more positive places to live and work. Teachers, students, families, and neighbours all benefit when nature is woven into daily life.
Importantly, when applied holistically, biophilic design creates positive ripple effects throughout communities—supporting human health, strengthening connections between people, and fostering environments that are not only beautiful but also sustainable. By prioritising natural light, greenery, fresh air, and natural materials, we design spaces that nurture both people and planet.
Biophilic design represents a shift towards healthier, more connected communities, proving that when we care for our relationship with nature, everyone thrives.