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10 Mar 2025


Manufacturer Spotlight | Dulux Trade: New report examines the opportunities and obstacles architects face in adopting biophilic design

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Dulux Trade Color of the Year 2025

New report examines the opportunities and obstacles architects face in adopting biophilic design



Think lush plants, natural textures, and organic elements woven into cities and workplaces that often feel a world apart from the outdoors. Scientific research has shown that this approach can help reduce stress, improve cognitive function, and enhance the experience of people who live in such environments.

A new report, produced in association with Dulux Trade examines architects' use of biophilic design and the implementation challenges they face. Despite the benefits to well-being in fast-paced, technology-driven spaces, there are practical barriers preventing architects from implementing biophilic design.


Find out more


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Client awareness gap and ROI concerns hindering implementation


Respondents seem wary of the cost of implementing biophilic features and whether there is any return on investment for clients.

As the report makes clear, there are ways that these challenges can be overcome. The simplest way to raise awareness of biophilic design principles is to use them in large-scale, high-profile projects, such as the natural elements and artificial lakes introduced to the Barbican Centre in London – in contrast to the brutalist architecture of the building itself.

Likewise, the increased productivity levels and employee retention along with reduced absenteeism in workplaces, could provide enough financial justification for clients from a business perspective.

Download the report here


Dulux Colour and design principles

How biophilic designs can be achieved using colour

The report also includes a case study from Dulux Trade that demonstrates how proper paint specification can enhance occupant wellbeing and inclusivity. Dulux Trade Colour Designer, Dawn Scott, reveals how biophilic designs can be realised using colour.

For example, soothing blues and greens have a calming effect, making them an ideal fit for restful areas like hospital wards and hotels, as well as alleviating stress in environments such as offices and schools.

Read the case study


 Colour Palette and Design Guide

The misconceptions of biophilic design

One of the most common misconceptions in biophilic design is about colour. When we think of nature-inspired colours, we think of blues and greens. Yet, as Dulux Trade Colour Designer, Dawn Scott points out in the report, all colours can be found in nature. As such, biophilic design can incorporate a wide variety of shades to suit the use and mood of every space.

In this short video, Dawn shares her 3 top tips for incorporating biophilic design to create spaces that are not only beautiful, but inclusive and supportive of everyone's needs.

Watch the LinkedIn video


Find out more about Dulux Trade services for architects and specifiers here!

 

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AkzoNobel Decorative Paints, Wexham Road, Slough, Berkshire, SL2 5DS

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