ARCHIVES
VOL. 13, ISSUE 1 (2026)
An exploration of biophilic architecture as a means of enhancing wellbeing in Maternity Hospital Design
Authors
Zayyan M R, Zakari A T, Oluigbo S N
Abstract
Health is a fundamental
right, and healthcare environments play a crucial role in promoting both
physical and psychological recovery. Maternity hospitals, which care for women
during pregnancy and childbirth, require thoughtfully designed spaces that go beyond
clinical functionality to provide comfort and support for both mothers and
infants. Recent studies have shown the profound effects of hospital
environments on patient outcomes, with natural elements contributing to reduced
stress, improved mood, and faster recovery. Biophilic design a concept that
integrates nature into built environments has been identified as a key strategy
for creating healing spaces in healthcare settings. This paper explores the
extent to which Biophilic design features are applied in existing maternity
hospitals in Nigeria, with a particular focus on Kano. By examining the
cultural and environmental factors influencing design choices. Data was
collected through qualitative methods, including case studies and an empirical
survey of existing facilities. The research identifies gaps in the current
design of maternity hospitals in Kano and offers recommendations for
integrating Biophilic elements. The study emphasizes the need for maternity
hospitals to provide environments that connect patients with nature, promoting
emotional and mental health alongside physical healing. This will contribute to
the growing body of knowledge on the human-nature connection in healthcare
design, proposing a holistic approach that aligns with global best practices
for patient-centered healthcare environments. Findings from the study
demonstrate the importance of creating naturalistic spaces within maternity
hospitals to enhance both patient and staff experiences. The research concludes
that Biophilic design is essential in redefining healthcare settings to promote
healing, reduce anxiety, and support overall well-being. It recommends that
healthcare architects and designers adopt Biophilic principles to ensure that
hospital environments not only meet clinical needs but also foster a deeper
connection with nature, ultimately improving health outcomes.
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Pages:406-412
How to cite this article:
Zayyan M R, Zakari A T, Oluigbo S N "An exploration of biophilic architecture as a means of enhancing wellbeing in Maternity Hospital Design". International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Development, Vol 13, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 406-412
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