Lunchtime Talk: We Need Nature in Schools

How can nature transform school design? Explore biophilia, regenerative architecture and the relationship between research and practice. Explore how biophilic design and architectural research can help create healthier, more engaging secondary school environments. What does it mean to meaningfully integrate nature into a school building? And how can architects translate research into practical design decisions?Join May Parkes-Young and Neil Young from LBY Architects for a discussion exploring the role of biophilia and regenerative design in education.Drawing on May's Architecture MSci research and LBY Architects' sustainability research for the Department for Education, the talk will examine the design of a biophilic secondary school in Derby.The speakers will explore: • Why relationships with nature matter in secondary schools. • What research reveals about young people's responses to their environments. • How collaboration between researchers, architects and clients can influence design. • A new biophilic design toolkit to support site-specific decisions. The session will bring together academic research and practical experience, offering insights for architects, designers, educators and those involved in commissioning and delivering educational buildings. About the speakers: May Parkes-Young is an Architectural Assistant at LBY Architects whose research focuses on biophilic design, learning environments and the wellbeing of building users. Neil Young is a Director and School Lead at LBY Architects, with over 25 years' experience. He leads the practice's schools work and research and development activities, including projects for the Department for Education. About the Building Centre's Lunchtime Talks: Our Lunchtime Talks bring together people working across architecture, design and the built environment to share ideas, explore new approaches and encourage discussion. Free to attend. Booking recommended. Have an idea for a talk? We're always looking for fresh ideas and perspectives. If you'd like to propose a talk, please get in touch.