Abstract

Indian traditions have long treated people, nature and the built environment as closely connected. Long before the term ‘biophilic design’ became common, Indian homes and settlements used courtyards, verandahs, water, plants, natural materials, filtered daylight and climate-responsive openings as part of everyday life. These elements were not used only for decoration; they helped people respond to climate, carry out daily activities and experience a stronger connection with nature. This paper explores how Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) can inform contemporary biophilic interior and spatial design. The study follows a qualitative and comparative case-study approach. It reviews traditional practices and maps them against selected biophilic-design principles. Four recurring strategies are examined: courtyards; plants and water; transitional spaces; and filtered connections through jaali and openings. Examples from Kerala, Rajasthan, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu are compared to understand how these strategies respond to climate, social life, sensory experience and cultural practices. The findings suggest that many traditional Indian spaces naturally achieved qualities now associated with biophilic design, including views of nature, changing daylight, natural ventilation, natural materials, prospect and refuge, and sensory variety. The main value of IKS is therefore not in copying historical forms. It is in understanding the thinking behind them and adapting that thinking to present-day needs. The paper proposes an IKS–Biophilic Design Translation Framework linking traditional knowledge with environmental performance, user well-being, sustainable materials and cultural identity.