Recognizing the detrimental effects of nature deprivation on human health within urban environments, my research investigates the adverse impacts of urban landscapes and proposes a solution through the integration of biophilic design. By highlighting the beneficial influence of nature on both mental and physical well-being, this study explores the transformative potential of incorporating natural elements into urban settings. My thesis specifically focuses on creating a biophilic co-working space for the working class in Mumbai, aiming to promote healthier and more sustainable urban environments that facilitate a harmonious coexistence between city dwellers and the natural world.

In a post-pandemic world, the traditional workspace has undergone a transformative shift, embracing hybrid work models. This thesis explores the evolving dynamics of future workspaces with a keen focus on employee wellbeing, specifically through the integration of biophilic design. By incorporating natural elements, fostering community connections, and promoting mental health, this study aims to highlight the benefits of biophilic environments on employee health, productivity, and overall satisfaction.

The COVID-19 pandemic created an unexpected and unprecedented global work experiment that permanently changed how we work, where we work, and the role work plays in our lives. This abrupt transition from a ‘traditional’ on-site work model to a remote work model has had a prolonged effect on people on psychological, emotional, and professional levels. While productivity levels increased, well-being and work/life balance decreased. I saw this as an opportunity to reimagine the hybrid work model in a post-pandemic world. How do we combine the best parts of working on-site, such as socialization, movement, and routine, with the flexibility of working remotely? In my thesis, I have created a coliving and coworking community where groups of friends or colleagues can stay for extended periods of time to work remotely all while exploring the city of Portland, Maine together. Through deliberate space planning of the site, I decentralize ‘work’ and ‘life’ functions to foster socialization and movement and increase well-being and work/life balance.