This paper discusses the curricular objectives, exercises, design tools, methods, and outcomes of a 7-week graduate architecture studio that explored a biophilic approach to net-positive design. We may be well aware of the performance and pragmatic aspects of net-positive design, but what are its poetic, atmospheric, and experiential implications? Could aesthetics, beauty, health, and well-being be as important to net-positive architecture as are reducing waste, energy consumption, and environmental impacts?
Mary Guzowski is a Professor in the School of Architecture at the University of Minnesota where she teaches and conducts research related to daylighting and sustainable design. Her continued fascination with daylighting, the natural environment, and ecology has shaped her architectural research and teaching. Her publications include the books The Art of Architectural Daylighting (Laurence King), Towards Zero Energy Architecture: New Solar Design (Laurence King) and Daylighting for Sustainable Design (McGraw Hill).