The design of indoor learning and working environments significantly influences users' psychological well-being and performance. Natural elements, such as greenery, have been shown to enhance these outcomes. Biophilic design integrates nature into interior spaces through materials, colors, and forms.
This study investigates whether biophilic design can be effectively implemented in classrooms to improve students' well-being and cognitive performance. It aims to generate scientific evidence and scalable design solutions for sustainable learning environments.
In a participatory process involving students, staff and stakeholders like facility management, a conventional classroom was transformed into a "Green Classroom" using biophilic design principles.
First, a spatial concept was developed through a co-design workshop with students and staff, who created 3D prototypes reflecting their needs and visions for optimal learning environments. These ideas were matched with current research on biophilic design and translated into a set of design elements (natural materials, greenery, acoustic features), which were implemented.
Over two months, one Psychology class (N = 100) is taught in the redesigned room, while a comparable class (N = 100) remains in a standard "Grey Classroom." A pre-post design measures emotional experience (SDQ), affective state (PANAS), performance (d2), and nature connectedness (EINS). Additional user groups evaluate the perceived restorativeness of the Green Classroom. Data collection is taking place in autumn 2025; results are expected in spring 2026.
Preliminary observations suggest that students in the Green Classroom report higher well-being and improved attention compared to those in the Grey Classroom. The space is perceived as more restorative and engaging, with positive feedback from other users supporting broader applicability.
Biophilic design offers a low-threshold, modular approach to enhancing existing educational spaces. This project provides evidence-based insights that can support educational institutions in integrating nature into learning environments, fostering a sustainable and health-promoting campus culture.