Light is one of the most important aspects of Biophilic Design, and this issue is packed full of the science behind why and how our biology responds to light, exploring everything from evolutionary developments to how light affects our DNA. We also look at how light impacts the natural world around us, so that when we specify, we make sure that lights are angled correctly and the correct temperature lighting so that the impact on the natural world is reduced. We use the ‘right light’ ‘right place’ mindset. Plus, we also hear from lighting designers, artists, architects and scientists as well as the RSPB, academics, plant experts and more.

The Biophilic Design framework specifies healthier environments for people and all life. When Biophilic Designers specify a room, a building or even a city, we look at everything from sensory impact of our environment to the physical and mental health impact of the materials and products we recommend.

We are biological beings, like plants. And just like plants we NEED natural light to survive.

“Light is not merely a technical element, it is a living, sensory material that shapes our experiences. In nature, light drives growth, movement, rhythm, and behaviour. In design, it has the power to influence how we feel, connect, and inhabit spaces,” light designer Lilian van Daal in this issue explores how we embrace this in design.

As Ulysse Dormoy describes in this issue: “All life on earth has evolved under the full solar spectrum, we’ve understood photosynthesis for the last 250 years, and we are only now starting to understand that there is a mirror image process that takes place in living creatures, humans included.”

Knowledge is powerful, and being armed with the copious amount of research and learning that is distilled for you in this issue of the Journal will, I hope, inspire you. Please use this Journal to show clients and stake holders why you are specifying biophilically. Together our voices are stronger.

Over 190 pages of full colour inspiration!