Biophilia, the future of architecture | Matthias Olt | TEDxSeattle

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In this 2020 TEDxSeattle talk, learn about new scientific discoveries in biophilia and why architect Matthias Olt believes that designing spaces where humans connect with nature promotes healing for people and the environment.

Olt describes the concept of biophilia and provides scientific evidence that incorporating nature-inspired, sinuous forms and natural materials into our built environments positively affect human physiology and psychology. Explaining the principles of biophilic design and how he applies them, Olt makes the case that inspiring architecture improves our performance, well-being, and connectedness.

2:42 - Study showing positive physiological and psychological responses of test-taking on wood vs. plastic laminate surfaces
4:54 - Olt discusses growing up in West Germany and visiting East Germany in the 1970s and 1980s, where the physical environment was often monotonous and constrained by industry
9:06 - Olt outlines principles of biophilia and application to design

More to explore:
Learn more about Olt and his work at https://bharchitects.com/en/profile/o...
Learn more about Olt’s previous work at https://architecturematthi.wixsite.co...
See the originator of the term “Biophilia,” E.O. Wilson, accept his 2007 TED Prize:
https://www.ted.com/talks/e_o_wilson_...
Watch architect Amanda Sturgeon’s TEDMED Talk “Using biophilic design to heal body, mind, and soul”:
   • Using biophilic design to heal body, mind,...  
View the TEDxGuelphU Talk, “The Biophilic World” by Owen Bjorgant, founder of the non-profit, The Biophilic World:
   • The Biophilic World | Owen Bjorgan | TEDxG...  
See architect Michael Pawlyn’s TED Talk “Using nature's genius in architecture”:
https://www.ted.com/talks/michael_paw... Matthias Olt has left an impressive mark across the world as a talented designer and architect. His distinct use of softly swooping waves or crisp clean lines can be found on culturally significant and sustainably designed buildings across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and North America.

Olt, who’s originally from Frankfurt, Germany, has worked in the industry for more than 26 years. He delivers expert design in high-rise, mixed-use corporate, commercial, and residential buildings that, in his own words, “create sculptural lightness that inspire ideas, promote joy, and elevate sustainable systems.” It’s in the area of sustainability where Olt truly shines.

Most recently, Olt has pitched bringing wood back into architecture in a big way. His vibrant, climate-aware designs for hybrid builds that include steel or carbon fiber wrapped with wood and cased in cement are a nod to both primitive and forward-thinking design. In 2017, Matthias was the recipient of an AIA Seattle Honors Award for his innovative design of a 39-story Conceptual Mass Timber Tower in Seattle.

Olt is a registered architect and received the German architecture diploma from the University of Applied Sciences, Frankfurt, Germany, and he also holds an undergraduate degree in chemical science. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx