Integrating Biophilic Design as A Sustainable Strategy for Shopping Malls in Port Harcourt, Rivers State

to contoured, patterned, textured or numerical arrangements that persist in nature. 11.Prospect An unimpeded view over a distance for surveillance and planning. 2.NonVisual Connection with Nature Auditory, haptic, olfactory, or gustatory stimuli that engender a deliberate and positive reference to nature, living systems, or natural processes. 9. Material Connection with Nature Material and elements from nature that, through minimal processing, reflect the local ecology or geology to create a distinct sense of place. 12.Refuge A place for withdrawal, from environmental conditions or the main flow of activity, in which the individual is protected from behind and overhead. 3. Non-Rhythmic Sensory Stimuli Stochastic and ephemeral connections with nature that may be analyzed statistically but may not be predicted precisely. 10. Complexity & Order Rich sensory information that adheres to a spatial hierarchy similar to those encountered in nature. 13.Mystery The promise of more information achieved through partially obscured views or other sensory devices that entice the individual to travel Table 1 Patterns of Biophilic Design (Browning, Ryan, Clancy, Terrapin,2014) Methodology This study utilizes a qualitative research method, which effectively collects and analyses non- numerical data, including text, video, or audio. By focusing on understanding concepts, opinions, and experiences, this approach allows for an in-depth exploration of the subject matter. It serves as a valuable tool for uncovering insights into existing problems and can inspire new ideas for further research. (Bhandari, 2025) Figure 5: Patterns of Biophilic Design (Browning, Ryan, & Clancy,2014) Research Framework CASE STUDY 1: MEYDAN ISTANBUL MALL Location: Umraniye, Turkey Designed by: FOA Foreign Office Architects Year: 2007 Site Area: 128.000 m2 With Restaurants, cafes, stores, and a capacity of 2,500 seats, Meydan İstanbul (Meydan - Ümraniye Retail Complex & Multiplex) is an urban arena integrated with topography, presenting a central square for the site. Unlike many shopping malls, its design approach serves as an ecological arena with a green roof for urban space. Biophilic Design Elements • Earth-sheltering approach: Semi-underground building built into the landscape • Green roof (around 54,000 m2): Dual-purpose for recreational area and insulation • Natural ventilation and lighting: Skylights and open spaces help save energy • Geothermal energy system: Sustainable means of heating and cooling • Landscape incorporation: Building replicates natural landforms Design Approach • Blends architecture and landscape • Applies passive environmental techniques (ventilation, lighting, shading) • Constructs public green space on the roof • Sustainability Impact • Lessens urban heat island phenomenon • Saves energy via passive design • Improves ecological presence in the urban environment S/N Search Procedure Explanation 1. Search Approach Journals indexed in Google Scholar Research Gate and Scribd 2. Explored keywords Resort, Resort Architecture, Beach resorts, Hospitality design, Biophilic d i i hili 3. Result Studies that specifically investigated how the principles of biophilic design can be integrated in beach resorts and guidelines for resort design. 4. Date of Publication Literature found eligible for inclusion and critical assessment was restricted to studies published from 1992 to the present 5. Language of bli i Included Studies were restricted to those published in English 6. Paper Inclusion Full papers on resort architecture and review articles were included 7. Paper Exclusion The assessment excluded studies that had only abstracts and not full text. Table 2: Author’s ` Case Study 2: CAPITAMALL NUOHEMULE Location: Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China Built Year: 2021 Client: CapitaLand Site Area: 102,000 sqm Interior Design: CLOU Architects Biophilic Design Elements Interior gardens/vertical landscaping: Multi-story vegetation incorporated throughout atria and circulation areas Figure 9-10: Blooming green roof of Meydan İstanbul Mall, aerial view Source: www.tripadvisor.com Figure 8: Site Plan of Meydan İstanbul Mall in differing scales (macro-micro site connection) Source: www.tripadvisor.com Figure 7: floor plans Source: www.tripadvisor.com Figure 6–7: Aerodynamic green roof of Meydan İstanbul Mall and perforated façade design. source: www.tripadvisor.com • Water elements: Streams, ponds, and aquatic features add to the sensory component • Optimized daylight: Atria provide for the penetration of natural light from floor to floor • Microclimate control: Vegetation and natural airflow contribute to controlling humidity and air quality • “Garden mall” theme: More than 2,000 m2 of planting spaces that include rainforest and rock garden themes Design Approach • Evolution of the typical enclosed shopping mall into a living ecosystem • The combination of horizontal and vertical landscaping • Development of social interaction spaces in nature-like conditions • Contribution to Sustainability • Increases IEQ (indoor environmental quality) • Decreases dependence on artificial air systems • Increases thermal comfort through a natural cooling system Figure 11: view of interior atrium, space, showing vertical gardens Source: www.theplan.it Figure 11: Section view showing hanging gardens source: www.theplan.it Figure 12: Ground floor plan source: www.theplan.it CASE STUDIES 3: THE RING Location: Chongqing, China Year: 2021 Client: Hongkong Land Limited Gross Floor Area: 443800 sq. m Architects: Dr. Ping Xu Biophilic Design Elements • Multi-story botanical garden: Centerpiece featuring thousands of plant varieties • Oasis pathways: Direct engagement with nature at various levels • Water elements: Large-scale installations using recycled water in the atrium area • Natural material theme: Earthy colors contributing to the natural setting • Nature in the urban context: Linkage with the nearby forest park Approach • The idea of an “urban natural community” Figure 13: First floor plan source: www.theplan.it Figure 14: Second floor plan source: www.theplan.it Figure 15: Third floor plan source: www.theplan.it Figure 16: Fourth floor plan source: www.theplan.it • Combines shopping, leisure, and ecology • Includes sensory stimulation (visual, tactile, and spatial) • Contribution to Sustainability • Provides an evergreen indoor environment • Promotes social activity and wellness • Embraces eco-friendly and local materials Figure 17 – 19: interior space showing hanging garden Source:www.amazingarchitecture.com Figure 20: showing site layout Source: www.theplan.it Figure 21: showing site circulation and landscape Source: www.theplan.it Figure 22: showing form generation Source: www.theplan.it Figure 23: showing a section view of the biophilic elements Source: www.theplan.it Figure 24: showing the building circulation Source: www.theplan.it Figure 25: showing the seciton of the builidng and underground parking Source: www.theplan.it Comparative Analysis Feature Meydan Istanbul Mall CapitaMall Nuohemule The Ring, China Type of Biophilia Landscape integration Indoor gardens Indoor ecosystem Key Element Green roof + earth shelter Vertical greenery + water Botanical garden Strategy Site-responsive design Interior transformation Experiential design Environmental Impact Reduced energy use Improved indoor climate Enhanced biodiversity indoors User Experience Outdoor-public integration Tropical indoor escape Immersive natural journey Table 3: showing the comparative analysis of the 3 case studies Conclusion The examination of the biophilic design integration in modern shopping malls such as CapitaMall Nuohemule, Meydan Istanbul Mall, and The Ring Chongqing indicates that the application of biophilic design features in shopping mall architecture is a vital approach not only for aesthetic considerations but also for ensuring sustainability, comfort, and profitability. All three case studies illustrate unique yet interconnected concepts of biophilic design. In particular, CapitaMall Nuohemule introduces an indoor ecological system where the use of vertical planting and water features combined with proper lighting creates a microclimate that improves indoor air quality. Meydan Istanbul Mall presents a site-integrated biophilic concept that integrates the structure into the existing landscape using green roofs and earth-sheltering technology. As a result, energy consumption is considerably reduced. Lastly, the project The Ring Chongqing provides an immersive concept of natural experience in commercial spaces. On the whole, all the above-mentioned facts suggest that biophilic design helps to achieve: • Better thermal comfort and improved air quality • Less reliance on mechanical systems • Greater user satisfaction and stay time • Greater ecological and aesthetic value for commercial settings In particular, considering the case studies and all the research done, in Port Harcourt, which is located of Port Harcourt, which is located within the state of Rivers, Nigeria, it is evident and clear that the application of biophilic design techniques within the shopping mall in Port Harcourt, Rivers State can be considered as one of the most appropriate ways to promote sustainable development in the city, especially having in mind its climatic features and urban processes. Recommendations Based on the findings from the case studies and their relevance to Port Harcourt, the following recommendations are proposed: Integration of Passive Biophilic Design Strategies: Architects and designers should prioritize passive design solutions such as natural ventilation through atriums and open corridors, daylighting via skylights and large glazed openings, use of shading devices, and vegetation for solar control Adoption of Green Infrastructure: Developers should incorporate green roofs and rooftop gardens (as seen in Meydan Istanbul Mall) and vertical greenery systems and indoor planting (as in CapitaMall Nuohemule). This will help mitigate the urban heat island effect and enhance biodiversity. Creation of Indoor Ecological Spaces: Spaces in shopping malls should include: Botanical atriums, Water features for evaporative cooling, and landscaped relaxation zones. This approach, exemplified by The Ring Chongqing, enhances user experience and promotes psychological well-being. Climate-Responsive Material Selection: Use locally available, sustainable, and low- carbon materials such as timber and bamboo finishes, Permeable paving materials, and reflective and heat-resistant surfaces. This reduces embodied carbon and supports local economies. Public Awareness and User Engagement: Developers should design spaces that encourage interaction with nature, provide educational signage about sustainability features, and promote community use of green spaces Reference Abdelaal, M. S., & Soebarto, V. (2019). Biophilia and salutogenesis in design: A review. Architectural Science Review, 62(4), 323–336. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00038628.2019.1604313?journalCode= tasr20&utm_source=chatgpt.com Abraham, A. O., Oluwatayo, A. A., & Nduka, D. M. (2023). Embracing nature in the built environment: Evaluation of biophilic design patterns in selected resorts. Journal of a Sustainable Global South.https://www.researchgate.net/publication/374573002_Embracing_Nature_in_th e_Built_Environment_Evaluation_of_Biophilic_Design_Patterns_in_Selected_Resort s Agboola, O. P. (2024). Assessing the effectiveness of biophilic design approach in sustainable architectural goals. SSRN Electronic Journal. https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=5119599 Aduwo, E. B., Akinwole, O. O., & Okpanachi, P. O. (2021). Assessing workers’ productivity through biophilic design in office buildings. IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, 665(1), 012034. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/350364370_Assessing_workers'_productivit y_through_biophilic_design_as_a_measure_of_sustainability_in_selected_office_buil dings_in_Lagos_state_Nigeria Balcony facade design trends in 2024 - Lumon. https://lumon.com/int/professionals/insights/pro-blog/balcony-facade-design-trends- in-2024/ Browning, W. D., Ryan, C. O., & Clancy, J. O. (2014). 14 patterns of biophilic design: Improving health and well-being in the built environment. Terrapin Bright Green, LLC. https://www.terrapinbrightgreen.com Bhandari, P. (2025, February 27). What is qualitative research? Methods & examples. Scribbr. https://www.scribbr.co.uk/research-methods/introduction-to-qualitative- research/Opens a new window. scribbr.co.uk Cheng, T., & Marzuki, A. (2023). Investigating the influence of biophilic elements in shopping mall environments. Journal of Sustainability Research, 5(3), e230011. https://wap.hapres.com/htmls/JSR_1541_Detail.html Effects of Earthshelter’s on Urban Space in Context of Biophilic Design; A case of Meydan İstanbul Mall, Turkey https://www.researchgate.net/publication/342122130_Effects_of_Earthshelter's_on_U rban_Space_in_Context_of_Biophilic_Design_A_case_of_Meydan_Istanbul_Mall_T urkey Ezekwesiri, O. S. O., & Dimkpa, K. (2023). Creating aesthetically pleasing facades for a retreat center to enhance user comfort. Global Scientific Journal, 11(11). https://www.globalscientificjournal.com/researchpaper/CREATING_ASTHETICALL Y_PLEASING_FACADES_FOR_A_RETREAT_CENTRE_TO_ENHANCE_USER _COMFORT.pdf Kellert, S. R., Heerwagen, J. H., & Mador, M. L. (Eds.). (2008). Biophilic design: The theory, science, and practice of bringing buildings to life. Wiley. https://www.wiley.com/enus/Biophilic+Design%3A+The+Theory%2C+Science+an+ Practice+of+Bringing+Buildings+to+Life-p-9780470163344 Leveraging the OECD Framework to Create Policies That Enable Eco-Innovation: A Case Study of Neom Part 2 | Educational Administration: Theory and Practice. (2024) https://kuey.net/index.php/kuey/article/view/2783 Olagunju, O. O., & Ajiboye, A. C. (2026). The role of experiential learning in biophilic design application. Frontiers in Education. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/education/articles/10.3389/feduc.2026.1741937/p df Ohochuku, C. P., Dimkpa, K., & Abraham, P. (2025). Luminodeficit: The paradox of high rent and abandoned interiors. International Journal of Environmental Planning and Development Architecture, 3(2), 1–7. https://journals.stmjournals.com/ijepda/article=2025/view=235174/ Söderlund, J., & Newman, P. (2015). Biophilic architecture: A review of research. Journal of Urban Design, 20(2), 193–210. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/13574809.2015.1004801 Wilson, E. O. (1984). Biophilia. Harvard University Press. https://doi.org/10.4159/9780674045231 Zahir, A. Z. A., & Azmi, F. S. (2024). Biophilic architecture and spatial perception. Malaysian Journal of Sustainable Environment, 11(2). https://journal.uitm.edu.my/ojs/index.php/MySE/article/view/1616?utm_source=chatgpt.com