"Exploring Biophilic Design Elements in High-Rise Buildings after the Islamic Revolution: A Delphi-Based Study"

Background and Objective
Since the Islamic Revolution, the rapid proliferation of high-rise buildings in Iranian cities has gradually distanced residents from nature and contributed to the decline in environmental quality in urban spaces. As urban populations increase and land use intensifies, the need for architectural strategies that integrate ecological, psychological, and aesthetic values becomes increasingly urgent. In this context, biophilic architecture—which emphasizes the innate human affinity for nature—offers a promising approach for improving the livability of high-density vertical developments. In the years following the Islamic Revolution, the increasing trend of high-rise construction in major Iranian cities—especially Tehran—has led to a gradual decline in human connection with nature and a reduction in the environmental and psychological quality of residential spaces. Biophilic design, as a human-centered architectural approach, seeks to re-establish sensory, visual, and emotional bonds between people and nature, providing a practical response to this growing concern. This study, through the Delphi method and the participation of a group of architectural and urban planning experts, aims to identify and prioritize the key biophilic design components applicable to high-rise buildings. Indicators such as natural light, vegetation, natural materials, air circulation, and scenic views are among the most influential factors in enhancing the residential environment’s quality. Ultimately, the research seeks to develop a localized framework for incorporating biophilic design principles into Iranian architecture, thereby improving the psychological and environmental quality of urban spaces, particularly in high-rise contexts, and aligning future architectural practices more closely with human needs.
Methodology
This research is applied in nature and utilizes a mixed-methods approach, combining both qualitative and quantitative techniques. In the initial stage, qualitative data were collected through the Delphi method, using expert interviews with professionals in the fields of architecture and urban planning. The Delphi method provides a structured process for organizing expert beliefs, attitudes, and opinions.
First, the research discourse and target community were identified, and a purposive sample was selected. Preliminary interviews were conducted to extract key statements, which then formed the basis for the design of the quantitative questionnaire. The theoretical framework and literature review were compiled using a descriptive-analytical approach and documentary data collection.
The study population consisted of experts and professionals in architecture and urbanism, with a sample size of 36 participants determined based on the Morgan table. Sampling was purposive, and data were analyzed using both qualitative and quantitative tools. Qualitative analysis was conducted using Delphi-based evaluation, while quantitative data from questionnaires were coded and analyzed using SPSS software. The statistical analysis included one-sample t-tests and the Friedman test to rank the variables and assess significance.
Findings
Analysis of the data collected from 36 completed questionnaires revealed that specific components of biophilic design are of greater importance in the context of high-rise buildings. The presence of light and water received the highest importance score, with a mean of 3.57. This includes the use of natural light, windows, and water features in both interior and exterior spaces.
The second most significant component was visual and non-visual connection with nature, with a mean score of 3.15, highlighting the value of natural scenery, ambient sounds, plant scents, and other sensory elements. Ranked third was non-rhythmic sensory stimulation (mean = 2.82), which includes experiences such as changing light patterns, air movement, shadows, and random environmental sounds.
Other noteworthy components included the use of natural materials (mean = 2.74), thermal variability and air flow (mean = 2.68), and the feeling of refuge (mean = 2.61). The Friedman test confirmed statistically significant differences in the prioritization of these indicators, with a p-value of 0.001, demonstrating the reliability of the experts' rankings.
Conclusion
Biophilic design in high-rise buildings can significantly enhance environmental quality, improve mental well-being, and increase residents’ satisfaction with their living spaces.