Characteristics of Biophilic Design Applied in Indoor Public Spaces Outside of Korea

Indoor public spaces are designed to be open and accessible, providing citizens with a comfortable environment for rest and social interaction, aiming to achieve a mental comfort effect similar to that provided by nature. This study explores how biophilic design, based on human interaction with nature, can be applied to the planning of indoor public spaces to provide open places for citizens. A framework for case analysis was established through a theoretical review of biophilic design. For case analysis, 26 cases of indoor public spaces outside of Korea were selected. Biophilic design elements were identified through a literature review and an image analysis, utilizing AI data analysis tools, for the case study analysis of indoor public spaces. An AI data analysis tools was used to refine the literature review and to identify additional biophilic design elements not covered in collected data. The results of this study present biophilic design features applicable to indoor public spaces, categorized according to ‘direct experiences of nature’, ‘indirect experiences of nature’, and ‘experiences of space and place’. As institutional foundations are established, it is expected that indoor public spaces where citizens can freely relax will continue to be developed domestically. The results of this study are anticipated to serve as useful reference material for the planning and design of these spaces.