The role of biophilic elements in the spatial experience of contemporary commercial complexes and their impact on customers’ behavioral health

Background: This study explores the integration of biophilic elements in contemporary commercial centers and their impact on customer well-being and spatial experience. With increasing recognition of the importance of natural environments in urban life, biophilic design has emerged as a key approach in commercial architecture. Methods: In the first phase, a thematic analysis of existing literature was conducted to identify relevant themes, categories, and relationships, leading to the development of a conceptual model. In the second phase, a survey-based study was carried out among 119 visitors to nominated commercial centers to validate and generalize the findings. Structural analysis of the collected data was performed using SPSS and SmartPLS (v.3), confirming that the conceptual framework of biophilic design in commercial spaces is shaped by six key factors. Results: The results indicate strong and meaningful interactions among these factors, reinforcing the significance of biophilic principles in shaping customer behavioral well-being. Furthermore, the study highlights how integrating biophilic elements into commercial environments can enhance both mental and physical well-being, ultimately fostering more positive customer experiences. Conclusion: These findings underscore the need to prioritize human-centered and environmentally conscious design strategies in commercial space development.