BIOMA / Framework
NATURE IN THE SPACE
Direct, physical and perceptible presence of nature in a space through planting, water, animals, light, air and other natural processes.
BIOMA / Biophilic Library
Biophilic Library:
70 ways to design with nature
An interactive visual atlas of biophilic design strategies. Explore light, air, water, material, views, refuge, biodiversity and identity of place: not a formula, but a vocabulary for learning to see.
4 categories15 operational lenses70 elementsBIOMA / 06
01Orientation
Biophilia beyond plants
Designing the relationship
between people, space and living systems
Biophilic design translates our relationship with nature into spatial decisions involving light, air, water, material, views, refuge, biodiversity, memory and belonging.
Patterns help us ask questions and combine strategies. They do not certify an outcome on their own: every hypothesis must be tested against people, climate, ecology, feasibility and performance.
Four ways of encountering nature
From direct contact
to the identity of place
The categories are not separate compartments. A robust project overlaps them to build a coherent sequence of experiences.
7 patterns
BIOMA / Framework
NATURAL ANALOGUES
Organic forms, materials, colours and patterns that translate the qualities and organising principles of nature.
BIOMA / Framework
NATURE OF THE SPACE
Spatial configurations found in nature, including prospect, refuge, mystery, controlled risk and ordered complexity.
BIOMA / Framework
PLACE-BASED RELATIONSHIPS
Relationships with the geography, history, culture and ecology of a specific site, developed by BIOMA as an additional design lens.
02Interactive atlas
Observe · compare · recognise
Build your own
biophilic map
Filter the cards and record an initial response. The map remains on your device: it begins a conversation and is neither a diagnosis nor an automatic solution.
Visual catalogue
70 elements
B01P01 · Visual Connection with Nature
Views + Vistas
Views + Vistas is one possible way to apply Visual Connection with Nature. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B02P01 · Visual Connection with Nature
Plants
Plants is one possible way to apply Visual Connection with Nature. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B03P01 · Visual Connection with Nature
Sunlight
Sunlight is one possible way to apply Visual Connection with Nature. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B04P01 · Visual Connection with Nature
Facade Greening
Facade Greening is one possible way to apply Visual Connection with Nature. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B05P01 · Visual Connection with Nature
Color
Color is one possible way to apply Visual Connection with Nature. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B06P01 · Visual Connection with Nature
Animals
Animals is one possible way to apply Visual Connection with Nature. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B07P01 · Visual Connection with Nature
Natural Light Quality
Natural Light Quality is one possible way to apply Visual Connection with Nature. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B08P02 · Non-Visual Connection with Nature
Air Quality
Air Quality is one possible way to apply Non-Visual Connection with Nature. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B09P02 · Non-Visual Connection with Nature
Sensory Variability
Sensory Variability is one possible way to apply Non-Visual Connection with Nature. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B10P03 · Non-Rhythmic Sensory Stimuli
Change & Metamorphosis
Change & Metamorphosis is one possible way to apply Non-Rhythmic Sensory Stimuli. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B11P03 · Non-Rhythmic Sensory Stimuli
Growth & Efflorescence
Growth & Efflorescence is one possible way to apply Non-Rhythmic Sensory Stimuli. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B12P03 · Non-Rhythmic Sensory Stimuli
Dynamic Balance & Tension
Dynamic Balance & Tension is one possible way to apply Non-Rhythmic Sensory Stimuli. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B13P03 · Non-Rhythmic Sensory Stimuli
Cloud & Sky
Cloud & Sky is one possible way to apply Non-Rhythmic Sensory Stimuli. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B14P04 · Thermal & Airflow Variability
Airflow
Airflow is one possible way to apply Thermal & Airflow Variability. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B15P05 · Presence of Water
Water
Water is one possible way to apply Presence of Water. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B16P06 · Dynamic & Diffuse Light
Filtered & Diffused Light
Filtered & Diffused Light is one possible way to apply Dynamic & Diffuse Light. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B17P06 · Dynamic & Diffuse Light
Light + Shadow
Light + Shadow is one possible way to apply Dynamic & Diffuse Light. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B18P06 · Dynamic & Diffuse Light
Light Pools
Light Pools is one possible way to apply Dynamic & Diffuse Light. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B19P06 · Dynamic & Diffuse Light
Reflected Light
Reflected Light is one possible way to apply Dynamic & Diffuse Light. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B20P06 · Dynamic & Diffuse Light
Warm Light
Warm Light is one possible way to apply Dynamic & Diffuse Light. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B21P06 · Dynamic & Diffuse Light
Light as Shape & Form
Light as Shape & Form is one possible way to apply Dynamic & Diffuse Light. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B22P07 · Connection with Natural Systems
Ecological Connection
Ecological Connection is one possible way to apply Connection with Natural Systems. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B23P07 · Connection with Natural Systems
Geology + Landscape
Geology + Landscape is one possible way to apply Connection with Natural Systems. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B24P07 · Connection with Natural Systems
Habitats + Ecosystems
Habitats + Ecosystems is one possible way to apply Connection with Natural Systems. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B25P07 · Connection with Natural Systems
Landscape Orientation
Landscape Orientation is one possible way to apply Connection with Natural Systems. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B26P08 · Biomorphic Forms & Patterns
Animal Motifs
Animal Motifs is one possible way to apply Biomorphic Forms & Patterns. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B27P08 · Biomorphic Forms & Patterns
Arches, Vaults & Domes
Arches, Vaults & Domes is one possible way to apply Biomorphic Forms & Patterns. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B28P08 · Biomorphic Forms & Patterns
Biomimicry
Biomimicry is one possible way to apply Biomorphic Forms & Patterns. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B29P08 · Biomorphic Forms & Patterns
Biomorphy
Biomorphy is one possible way to apply Biomorphic Forms & Patterns. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B30P08 · Biomorphic Forms & Patterns
Botanical Motifs
Botanical Motifs is one possible way to apply Biomorphic Forms & Patterns. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B31P08 · Biomorphic Forms & Patterns
Egg & Tubular Forms
Egg & Tubular Forms is one possible way to apply Biomorphic Forms & Patterns. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B32P08 · Biomorphic Forms & Patterns
Simulation of Natural Forms
Simulation of Natural Forms is one possible way to apply Biomorphic Forms & Patterns. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B33P08 · Biomorphic Forms & Patterns
Geomorphology
Geomorphology is one possible way to apply Biomorphic Forms & Patterns. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B34P08 · Biomorphic Forms & Patterns
Resisting Straight Lines
Resisting Straight Lines is one possible way to apply Biomorphic Forms & Patterns. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B35P08 · Biomorphic Forms & Patterns
Shells & Spirals
Shells & Spirals is one possible way to apply Biomorphic Forms & Patterns. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B36P08 · Biomorphic Forms & Patterns
Tree & Columnar Supports
Tree & Columnar Supports is one possible way to apply Biomorphic Forms & Patterns. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B37P09 · Material Connection with Nature
Natural Materials
Natural Materials is one possible way to apply Material Connection with Nature. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B38P09 · Material Connection with Nature
Age, Change & Patina
Age, Change & Patina is one possible way to apply Material Connection with Nature. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B39P09 · Material Connection with Nature
Indigenous Materials
Indigenous Materials is one possible way to apply Material Connection with Nature. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B40P10 · Complexity & Order
Complementary Contrasts
Complementary Contrasts is one possible way to apply Complexity & Order. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B41P10 · Complexity & Order
Fractals
Fractals is one possible way to apply Complexity & Order. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B42P10 · Complexity & Order
Hierarchical Ratios
Hierarchical Ratios is one possible way to apply Complexity & Order. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B43P10 · Complexity & Order
Information Richness
Information Richness is one possible way to apply Complexity & Order. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B44P10 · Complexity & Order
Information & Cognition
Information & Cognition is one possible way to apply Complexity & Order. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B45P10 · Complexity & Order
Integration of Parts to Wholes
Integration of Parts to Wholes is one possible way to apply Complexity & Order. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B46P10 · Complexity & Order
Order & Complexity
Order & Complexity is one possible way to apply Complexity & Order. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B47P10 · Complexity & Order
Patterned Wholes
Patterned Wholes is one possible way to apply Complexity & Order. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B48P10 · Complexity & Order
Central Focal Point
Central Focal Point is one possible way to apply Complexity & Order. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B49P10 · Complexity & Order
Spatial Harmony
Spatial Harmony is one possible way to apply Complexity & Order. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B50P11 · Prospect
Spaciousness
Spaciousness is one possible way to apply Prospect. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B51P11 · Prospect
Prospect & Refuge
Prospect & Refuge is one possible way to apply Prospect. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B52P12 · Refuge
Bounded Spaces
Bounded Spaces is one possible way to apply Refuge. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B53P12 · Refuge
Inside-Outside Spaces
Inside-Outside Spaces is one possible way to apply Refuge. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B54P12 · Refuge
Security & Protection
Security & Protection is one possible way to apply Refuge. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B55P13 · Mystery
Curiosity & Enticement
Curiosity & Enticement is one possible way to apply Mystery. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B56P13 · Mystery
Exploration & Discovery
Exploration & Discovery is one possible way to apply Mystery. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B57P13 · Mystery
Linked Series & Chains
Linked Series & Chains is one possible way to apply Mystery. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B58P13 · Mystery
Transitional Spaces
Transitional Spaces is one possible way to apply Mystery. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B59P13 · Mystery
Attraction & Beauty
Attraction & Beauty is one possible way to apply Mystery. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B60P14 · Risk / Peril
Fear & Awe
Fear & Awe is one possible way to apply Risk / Peril. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B61P14 · Risk / Peril
Reverence & Spirituality
Reverence & Spirituality is one possible way to apply Risk / Peril. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B62P15 · Place-Based Connection
Geographic Connection
Geographic Connection is one possible way to apply Place-Based Connection. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B63P15 · Place-Based Connection
Historic Connection
Historic Connection is one possible way to apply Place-Based Connection. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B64P15 · Place-Based Connection
Cultural Connection
Cultural Connection is one possible way to apply Place-Based Connection. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B65P15 · Place-Based Connection
Integration Culture & Ecology
Integration Culture & Ecology is one possible way to apply Place-Based Connection. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B66P15 · Place-Based Connection
Spirit of Place
Spirit of Place is one possible way to apply Place-Based Connection. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B67P15 · Place-Based Connection
Avoiding Placelessness
Avoiding Placelessness is one possible way to apply Place-Based Connection. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B68P15 · Place-Based Connection
Space as Shape & Form
Space as Shape & Form is one possible way to apply Place-Based Connection. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B69P15 · Place-Based Connection
Spatial Variability
Spatial Variability is one possible way to apply Place-Based Connection. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
B70P15 · Place-Based Connection
Landscape Features Defining Form
Landscape Features Defining Form is one possible way to apply Place-Based Connection. Its relevance depends on the place, the people who use it and the way it will be maintained.
Benefits and indicators
Potential benefitsPotential benefits must be assessed against the intended users, activities and environmental conditions.
What to observeDefine suitable qualitative or quantitative indicators during project assessment.
BIOMA / Boundary
Preference opens a question
Design builds the response
What it shows
Patterns, examples, possible fields of benefit and signals to observe make biophilia accessible and concrete.
What it does not decide
It does not select strategies, score a project or promise verified performance or benefits.
What happens next
Resonances are considered alongside place, people, budget, maintenance, ecology and measurable aims.
Sources and transparency
A declared taxonomy
and evolving research
This public edition retains BIOMA's operational structure: the 14 patterns in Terrapin's historic 2014 edition, plus Connection with Place, developed by BIOMA as an additional design lens.
Terrapin's 2024 edition, updated in 2026, introduces Awe as its official fifteenth pattern. We state this distinction to separate the current Terrapin framework from the BIOMA extension presented here.
To understand how these strategies enter a real process, explore the BIOMA design method and the Journal.
Last editorial review: 31 July 2026. Indicators in the cards are signals to be tested within a project, not statements of compliance with a standard.From resonance to design