Biophilic Patterns & Stimuli in Senior Wellbeing
4 May 2026
Episode S6E5
The direction of design for older people is currently centred on Wellness and the impact of Biophilic Design. What scientific proof exists that these environments are vital for well-being, and how can this be tested in a robust and objective way? In Part 1 on this topic, Lori talks to three academic specialists from Nottingham Trent University, in the United Kingdom, amid their in-depth study of the subject, including the protocols required to work directly with people in a care setting, and the use of AI and other technologies they have employed to assist.
Nottingham Trent University study is still in progress. Please join us for Part 2 of this interview for additional findings to date.
You’ll find further information linking Biophilia and Wellness on our page for the Wellness Interior Design Audit (WIDA).
- Guests: Dr. Yangang Xing, Dr. Andrew Knight and Carolyn Thomas
- A Dose of Nature – Roger Ulrich’s theory
- The Journal of Biophilic Design – Website Homepage
- The Journal of Biophilic Design – Podcast
- 14 Patterns of Biophilic Design – Terrapin Bright Green
- Everything You Need to Know About Biophilic Design – Space Refinery
- Biophilic Design Initiative – Living Future
- Innovation Spotlight: Mobility UK, Lifeglider Mobility Aid (UK & Europe) and the Zeen Mobility Aid (USA)
About Our Guests
Dr. Yangang Xing, Nottingham Trent University. Dr. Xing’s research interest in Architectural Science and sustainability spans nature-based solutions, intelligent building technologies, mental health, and biomimicry. He has been developing innovative holistic solutions based on building physics and inter-disciplinary research tools, systemic modelling, and assessment of future post-carbon-built environments. Dr. Xing completed his PhD in Dynamic system simulation for sustainability planning and has participated in EPSRC-funded research projects focusing on methodological and technical innovations supporting building and urban sustainability. He is also the current Chair of the CIBSE Intelligent Building Group.
Dr. Andrew Knight, PhD FRICS. Dr Knight is an Executive Dean at Nottingham Trent University and an interdisciplinary researcher specialising in the built environment, with particular interest in professional ethics, social value, and biophilic design. His research draws on philosophical approaches to examine how built environments influence wellbeing, ethical practice, and societal outcomes. Dr Knight has published widely in leading international journals with recent work addressing ageing well in care settings, environmental evidence in historic buildings, and ethical decision‑making in professional practice.
Carolyn Thomas, Phd Student, Nottingham Trent University. Carolyn’s academic and professional trajectory has been shaped by an interest in biophilia and the human–nature relationship in the built environment. She explores how design can strengthen connections between people and nature, particularly within interior spaces where many individuals spend most of their time. After completing a master’s degree in environmental design, Carolyn has focused on interior environmental design as part of a holistic approach which integrates spatial design, natural elements and human experiences, environments and influencing physical health, psychological wellbeing, and environmental awareness to improve quality of life.