In the face of extreme weather conditions, Dr. Belma Alik Elsaej, Assistant Professor at Heriot-Watt University Dubai, explores how biophilic design can foster well-being in interior spaces across the Middle East—merging nature with architecture to create environments that heal, inspire, and endure
In the heart of the Middle East, where the sun blazes and arid landscapes prevail, architects and interior designers face a unique challenge: creating spaces that nurture the human spirit while navigating some of the harshest climatic conditions on Earth. In this context, biophilic design—a design philosophy that seeks to connect occupants more closely with nature—offers both an opportunity and a responsibility. It calls for a rethinking of interior spaces, not only in terms of aesthetics but also in terms of health, comfort, and psychological well-being.
The Paradox of Nature in the Desert
Biophilic design in temperate regions often emphasises large operable windows, abundant greenery, and access to fresh air. In contrast, buildings in the Middle East are built to keep heat out, minimise direct sunlight, and rely heavily on mechanical cooling systems. This creates an apparent paradox: how can one invite nature in while keeping its harshest elements at bay?
The solution lies in interpreting biophilia beyond literal greenness. It means drawing from the sensory and symbolic connections to nature that can thrive indoors, even when the outdoor environment is inhospitable. These connections are critical in urban Middle Eastern environments, where natural landscapes may be sparse, and indoor life dominates due to climate constraints.
Rethinking Interiors: A Multi-Sensory Approach
To effectively implement biophilic principles in hot, dry climates, designers must adopt a multi-sensory approach. Visual cues—such as organic forms, earthy textures, and locally inspired natural materials—can be used to mimic the patterns and calm of nature. Rammed earth walls, natural stone finishes, and wooden detailing can evoke a deep connection to place while remaining climate-appropriate and culturally relevant.
Thermal comfort, often overlooked in biophilic conversations, is vital in the Middle East. Materials that moderate indoor temperatures, such as thick adobe-style walls or lime plasters, reduce the reliance on artificial cooling and foster a more natural interior climate. Shading systems, mashrabiya screens, and courtyard layouts rooted in regional traditions can offer passive cooling while casting dynamic shadows, adding both function and poetic connection to nature.
Daylight, Not Heat
In a region where the sun can be more foe than friend, controlled daylighting becomes essential. Instead of large, unshaded openings, narrow slits, skylights with deep wells, or light-diffusing materials can bring in soft, indirect light, mimicking the dappled effects found under trees. This satisfies the innate human craving for natural light without sacrificing comfort.
Dynamic lighting systems, which mimic the natural progression of daylight, can also support circadian rhythms and emotional well-being. In windowless or sun-restricted interiors, circadian-tuned LED lighting is increasingly used to simulate natural light cycles, offering a practical solution rooted in biophilic science.
Green Doesn’t Always Mean Plants
While plants are a cornerstone of biophilic design, maintaining greenery in Middle Eastern interiors requires careful consideration. Native or drought-tolerant plants, such as succulents, olive trees, or palms, are more sustainable and easier to maintain. In high-end residences and commercial interiors, green walls with integrated irrigation and smart systems are gaining popularity. Still, simpler interventions, such as potted herbs or vertical gardens near kitchen spaces, are equally effective in bringing nature closer to daily life.
When live plants aren’t feasible, artistic representations of nature—such as nature-inspired artwork, water elements, or even digital projections of natural landscapes—can offer restorative benefits. The key is to provide variety, authenticity, and engagement.
Designing for Psychological Well-being
In cities like Dubai, Riyadh, and Doha, where life moves fast and stress levels run high, interior spaces must serve as sanctuaries. Research continues to demonstrate that biophilic interiors can reduce stress, enhance creativity, and improve sleep quality. For the Middle East’s urban residents, this becomes not just a luxury but a necessity.
Spaces designed with psychological comfort in mind—calming colour palettes, zones of retreat, layered lighting, and acoustic softness—support mental well-being. In both residential and hospitality design, we see a shift toward more introspective, meditative interiors that prioritise emotional restoration alongside physical comfort.
A Future Rooted in Nature
Biophilic design in the Middle East must evolve from a borrowed trend into a localised, climate-responsive design ethos. It’s not about importing greenery or mimicking Western models, but about rediscovering and reinterpreting age-old regional principles—such as shaded courtyards, breezeways, and water features—through the lens of contemporary science and well-being.
As climate resilience becomes a global imperative, the Middle East has a chance to lead by example: by embracing biophilic interiors that honour nature while protecting people from its extremes. In doing so, we can create spaces that are not only beautiful and sustainable but also healing, meaningful, and deeply human.
