Biophilic Design and Energy Efficiency in Healthcare Centers
A Literature Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.46421/entac.v20i1.5919Keywords:
Hospital Architecture., Biophilia., Environmental Comfort., Sustainability., Performance.Abstract
The climate crisis has been a topic of discussion on the international stage for many years. With urban densification and accelerated construction, cities have exacerbated the energy situation. When addressing the issue of energy efficiency in hospitals, it becomes apparent that due to their large size, diverse functions, and the need for strict control of temperature, humidity, and air quality, efficiency impacts not only the environmental aspect but also the economic and maintenance aspects of the building. Within hospitals, strategies that minimize energy expenditure in areas where control is not as stringent are crucial for the viability of the building itself. With the need for faster, low-cost constructions that accommodate more people, the relationship with the natural environment and the perception of environmental quality have been neglected. This has made efficiency and sustainability not only an issue of the climate crisis but also a social and psychological problem for the population.
On the other hand, biophilic design prioritizes strategies that use the natural environment as a formative element of the setting, revealing great potential to positively impact patient well-being, accelerate recovery processes, and beneficially influence various social aspects. In hospital environments, biophilic design is linked to the pursuit of humanized environments, although biophilia can play a fundamental role in energy efficiency. By promoting the adoption of sustainable materials and incorporating elements such as natural lighting and ventilation, as well as strategies for thermal and acoustic control, biophilic design plays a crucial role in improving the energy efficiency of buildings. This approach not only reduces energy dependence but also fosters ecologically conscious construction practices.
This article reviews previously conducted studies, aiming to analyze the interconnections between biophilia and energy efficiency in the context of healthcare facilities through a narrative literature review that explores the influence of biophilic design, not only on the psychological well-being of users but also on the energy efficiency of these buildings.
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