DAY 2 • WEDNESDAY 16 SEPTEMBER • 10.30 – 11.00
Opening Keynote: The connection with nature - a real-world look at the growth of biophilic design
A keynote exploring the evolution of biophilic design from surface-level greenery to a deeper, sensory-led approach to creating human-centred environments.
The session examines how design can better align with human biology and evolutionary needs, supporting wellbeing, focus, and restoration across different environments.
It will also explore how biophilic principles translate into real-world workplace and institutional design, including zoning, sensory variation, and the use of lighting, acoustics, materials, and environmental systems to create more balanced and supportive spaces.
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Biophilic design as a sensory and human-centred approach
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The link between environment, evolution, and wellbeing
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Designing for different sensory needs across the working day
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Application in workplace and institutional environments
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Translating principles into practical design decisions
Oliver Heath, Founder and Director, Oliver Heath Design
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Oliver Heath Ba (Hons), Dip Arch (UCL)
Oliver is the founder and director of Oliver Heath Design (founded 2003), who are consultants, designers, and advocates for neuroinclusive health and wellbeing in the built environment, benefiting both people and planet.
Over the last 15 years his company have been become globally recognised thought leaders and practitioners in Biophilic Design through the dissemination of knowledge, alongside the development and delivery of human centred nature-based design projects. This has been across a range of spatial typologies including hospitality, workplace, residential, and education sectors.
Design clients include Apple, Bloomberg, The BRE, Accor, The London School of Economics, Lloyds and the John Lewis Partnership’s venture into Built to Rent apartments. His company’s current projects for Lloyds Insurance and the LSE look to support neuroinclusive spaces through a combination of sensory zoning and enhanced human centred nature connections.
He has extensive experience in knowledge creation and presentation, having spent 15 years working for TV channels such as BBC, ITV and Channel 4, publishing 4 books, 8 white papers, online courses and presenting over 600 RIBA certified CPDs on Biophilic Design.
Oliver is a passionate advocate of regenerative design and has acted as a spokesperson for the likes of the UK’s Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ), the Energy Saving Trust (EST) and the Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP).
LinkedIn: Oliver_Heath
Instagram: @oliverheathdesign