Biophilic School Architecture in Lithuania: a Theoretical Study of Possibilities

Abstract

Taking into account the inadequacy of traditional learning environments for modern educational purposes and the challenges of multifunctionality of school buildings posed by the optimization of the school network in Lithuania, the paper analyses the possibilities of applying biophilic design principles to the design of contemporary schools in order to identify criteria and guidelines that could be applied to the design of biophilic school. The methods used in the research include the analysis of literature and analysis and evaluation of examples and the formulation of a theoretical model of biophilic school design. The research has led to the identification of factors relevant to the design of a biophilic school, including natural lighting, natural colors typical of the natural environment with bright contrasting color insertions, organic curvilinear forms, natural elements and motifs, natural, local materials, connection to ecosystems, plants, animals, planning of clear legible spaces, outdoor classrooms, gardens, water motif.