Beyond Sustainability: Biophilia as a tool for Regenerative Urban Design

Abstract

The concept of urban revitalization deals with measures to improve the features of the urban environment whilst promoting community engagement to improve the quality of life for all. Many Low-income neighborhoods in the DC area have experienced urban distresses resulting from changes in urban growth. These conditions have led to the physical deterioration of neighborhoods and have increased the number of poor and vulnerable citizens. Research establishes that positive public spaces foster and positively impact the quality of life in low-income neighborhoods. Regenerative design provides a rationalized approach to create restorative environments that encourage community engagement to promote economic and social benefits. Regenerative and biophilic urban design aims at eliminating the gap between the built environment and nature in modern cities to create restorative environments. This study examines how biophilic and regenerative architecture principles can foster quality in an urban environment through the redesign of the Anacostia Recreation Center and Park. Keywords: Urban revitalization; Regenerative Architecture; biophilic design