8. BIOMORPHIC FORMS & PATTERNS

PATTERNS

ENVIRONMENTAL

INCREASE Preference (1, 3, 4)
INCREASE Place Attachment (1, 3)

DECREASE Anxiety (2, 4, 5)

EMOTIONAL

WELL-BEING BENEFITS

(1) Alexander, 2004; (2) Hildebrand, 2008; (3) Kellert, 2008; (4) Salingaros & Masden II, 2008; (5) Taylor, 2006

“Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.” - Albert Einstein

THE BASICS

Biomorphic forms are those that represent natural forms often in an abstract way, relying on contour, patterns, and textures to draw a connection to nature. This can appear in architectural or structural form, or in smaller, more decorative applications. See Complexity & Order for more related information.

The Basics

Architectural Examples

This approach uses nature as an inspiration in creating shapes and details and can be approached through structure, and it has been suggested that structural approaches are more powerful (6).

Decorative Examples

Smaller, more decorative applications can be seen in banisters or railings, furniture, floor mosaics, window details, fabrics, and wall paper designs.