The Role of Biophilic Design in Improving Urban Liveability

As a result of rapid urbanization, cities are increasingly faced with stressors such as heat island effects, air and noise pollution, mental health challenges, and declining environmental quality. The built environment is often designed in ways that alienate humans from nature at the detriment of humans’ well-being and the natural environment. The rise in urbanization has led to a disconnect between the built and the natural environment. This paper explores the role of biophilic design in enhancing urban liveability while promoting sustainability and human well-being. Drawing on interdisciplinary research from architecture and environmental psychology, we examine how nature-integrated design strategies such as nature forms and tones, green roofs, vegetated walls, daylight optimization, and natural ventilation can alleviate thermal discomfort, improve air quality, reduce noise, and enhance well-being. This paper concludes by proposing a framework for integrating biophilic design principles into urban planning and policy, with recommendations for maximizing ecological performance and liveability in urban environments. It positions biophilic design not only as an aesthetic approach but as a critical tool for creating resilient, inclusive, and sustainable urban futures.