Bio-Technophilia

Located within the suburb region of Chesterton in the northeast corner of Cambridge, England; the site presents a unique position of being in between a developed urban landscape and a nature landscape with a scenic view of Barnwell Lake. This juxtaposition between nature and human urban development directs us to explore a student accommodation that embodies this delicate balance of co-existence between human and nature, instead of one over-powering the other.



By embracing nature into our built-environment not only opens up student’s awareness into sustainability and global climate issues, we can also tap upon nature’s healing and soothing properties to promote spatial well-being. This design approach is known today as ‘Biophilic’ Design.

Nature elements such as moss walls, potted plants and natural sunlight not only spruce up the space but projects an image of wellness to calm and soothe users.



With our target audience being young adults a nature driven space has proven to reduce levels of stress, depression, and anxiety whilst helping space users to connect with one another, fostering a strong unity. Design plays a crucial role in the virtuous development of a community. From basic but important aspects like spaces to encourage the development of communities, improving sleep hygiene to repurposed areas to offer more privacy and quiet time.



The design concept is executed through the infusion of elements of nature in subtle and apparent manners. Evident green elements like hanging plants at the ceiling, nature inspired wallpapers, accessories are strategically used to create highlights at different zones. To compliment these green elements, subtle touches which mimics some characteristics of nature are added, like the use of repeated rhythms, curvilinear forms or ordered chaos. These subtle elements are evident in the wallpapers, soft furnishings and light fittings. Paired with the large clear full height glass walls which allows good visual connection to the greenery outdoors, we can experience the embracement of nature in a protected built-environment.