Biophilia and Architecture
The Greek term philia expresses a friendly form of love – the idea of a selfless friendship.
The concept of biophilia builds on this meaning, describing the human being’s innate biological connection with nature.
This emotional link between humans and the natural world is tied to a multisensory dynamic that is also reflected in the architectural design of spaces, which is increasingly based on shapes, materials and elements that:
CorkPhilia
Diasen has reinterpreted the biophilic relationship between humans and nature by focusing material development on the sensory mediation of cork.
This innovative and material-based approach – called CorkPhilia – is rooted in technologies and systems where the application of bio-based plasters and bio-based paints brings out and highlights the exposed cork.
The result is a solution that combines functionality and beauty, creating both a visual and tactile connection between humans and nature.
The CorkPhilia-inspired solutions address needs for:
comfort
design
regeneration
sustainability
healthiness
Rounded Forms
The rounded shapes fully embody the biophilic ideal because they naturally align with the semi-circular movements of the hand that outlines the tactile sensation of the materials, the free flow of thought and the symbolism that refers to the sensual and sensory dimension of things.
The universe and nature constantly offer rounded forms, which is why this shape is a crucial element in biophilic design and in creating a relationship between humans and architecture based on empathy and well-being.
In essence, CorkPhilia is a concept, a system, and a vision of material that favors rounded forms over the harshness of straight lines and edges.
CorkPhilia:
bio-based plasters and paints
In Autumn 2024, ADI (Italian Association for Industrial Design) included CorkPhilia in the INDEX 2024 under the category Design for Technologies and Materials, a selection by the ADI Permanent Design Observatory – the first step toward the 2026 Compasso d’Oro Award.
CorkPhilia offers the advantage of multifunctionality: it adapts to both walls and floors, offering a single solution that addresses various aspects of comfort and design.
The application of Diathonite cork-based bio-plasters on different types of shapes and surfaces allows for an aesthetic and functional result that fully adheres to the CorkPhilia concept: sanding the bio-based plaster creates a unique textural effect that enhances the neutral colour of the cork, restoring balance, elegance, beauty and a direct connection with nature.
The Decork Mediterraneo bio-based paint, made from cork and clay, allows the creation of interior spaces with a material capable of combining colour, texture, and biophilic elements.
Even in paints, exposed cork brings a tactile sensation of warmth and texture that evokes impressions of positivity and living comfort.
Through the intuition of biophilia applied to cork, architecture is changing its vision of materials: from a corollary to the fulcrum of the work.
This is why architects and designers are increasingly attracted to the soul of the material, seeking its nature and spirit. Adopting this new perspective reveals a mix of aesthetics, perception and comfort.
