The Possibility of Integrating Biophilic Design Elements Into School Designs to Enhance Student Well-Being

Abstract

The physical environment of the Malaysian schools has remained unchanged for decades, thus not providing a conducive learning environment that promotes the well-being of students. Several studies on biophilic designs have been shown to enhance occupant well-being in living and working environments. Therefore, the study attempts to investigate the possibility of integrating biophilic design in Malaysian primary schools to improve students' well-being. This study determines the biophilic elements that contribute to the development of the students' well-being and investigate the students' preferences for the biophilic environment in their schools. The study employs a quantitative approach using a set survey questionnaire. The findings show to what extent biophilic design elements are currently integrated into primary school designs. Findings would assist designers and authorities in their efforts for the future development of school environment design considering student wellbeing.