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Global Health Econ Sustain Neuroinclusive workplaces and biophilic design

In addition to the PenPlace development in Arlington, surrounding air temperature and leading to increased
Amazon has undertaken other innovative projects, such as energy efficiency and lower air conditioning costs.
the futuristic biospheres in Seattle (Bishop, 2016). These Moreover, the wall serves as a sound barrier, enhancing
spheres resemble parks more than offices, featuring over the office’s acoustics and providing a more comfortable
3,000 plants from 30 countries, tree-house meeting rooms, working environment. The breathing wall comprises
water features, a birdcage-themed conference room, modules made from linear, low-density polyethylene,
environmental fogging, and a five-story living wall. These which can be infinitely recycled. The modules are filled
examples build on previous examples of water features in with a coconut fiber-rich growing medium. To ensure
various businesses (Figure 3). Amazon encourages walking uniform airflow across the plants and growing medium,
meetings within the spheres, promoting employee well- an electric axial impeller is employed, enhancing the
being and engagement with nature. absorption of carbon dioxide and maximizing the amount
Similar to the PenPlace project, the Seattle biospheres of air that can be filtered and cooled by each module.
also contribute 2.75 acres of public park space for By incorporating biophilic elements such as the
community use, including immersive forest rooms. breathing green wall, Lendlease headquarters showcases
This demonstrates Amazon’s commitment to creating how office spaces can be designed to promote both
shared spaces that benefit both employees and the local environmental sustainability and employee well-being.
community. Furthermore, Amazon has pledged to power This innovative approach to office design serves as an
100% of its HQ2 operations with renewable energy through inspiration for businesses worldwide to adopt biophilic
a mix of off-site and on-site solar projects. This aligns with design principles in their workspaces.
the company’s Climate Pledge, which aims for net-zero
carbon emissions across all Amazon operations by 2040. 5. Biophilic design elements
By incorporating renewable energy and sustainable design This section will explore the interconnectedness of
elements in its projects, Amazon sets an example for other biophilic design elements with spacemaking, wayfinding,
corporations to prioritize sustainability and environmental and soundscapes, highlighting their collective impact
responsibility. on creating environments that promote well-being and
Lendlease’s new global headquarters in Australia enhance the user experience. Biophilic design, with its
features the country’s first breathing green wall, which emphasis on integrating natural elements and patterns into
lifts the biophilic office design to another level (Jackson & built environments, serves as the foundation for creating
Mansfield, 2019). This innovative wall, created by Junglefy, spaces that mimic the restorative qualities of nature. By
incorporates around 5,000 plants and serves as an active, incorporating elements such as plants, natural light, and
modular green wall system. Scientifically proven to remove organic shapes, spacemaking techniques enhance the overall
air pollutants such as carbon dioxide and volatile organic aesthetic appeal and functionality of the environment.
compounds more effectively than other plant-based Wayfinding strategies play a vital role in guiding individuals
systems, the breathing wall offers numerous benefits. through the space, ensuring ease of navigation and a
In addition to improving air quality, the breathing sense of orientation. By integrating natural wayfinding
wall also acts as a natural cooling system, reducing the cues, such as the use of colors, patterns, and materials
inspired by nature, individuals can intuitively understand
their surroundings and establish a stronger connection
with the built environment. In addition, soundscapes,
encompassing the acoustic qualities and auditory stimuli
within a space, contribute to the overall sensory experience.
By incorporating natural sounds and minimizing
disruptive noises, biophilic design can create a harmonious
and calming auditory environment. Understanding the
relationships between these key components allows for the
thoughtful integration of biophilic design principles in the
creation of spaces that not only promote well-being but also
inspire a deeper connection with the natural world.

5.1. Spacemaking
Spacemaking with biophilic design involves creating
Figure 3. Old post office waterfall, fayetteville historic, 2016. environments that provide a sense of refuge and

Volume 1 Issue 1 (2023) 9 https://doi.org/10.36922/ghes.0549