Scientists are concerned that rainforests are perilously close to a tipping point. If 20-25% of the tree covers are deforested, the forest’s capacity to absorb carbon dioxide will collapse. The Forest Affair is one such design concept presented at JD Design Awards 2022 which brings in awareness among peers about the perishing nature. Libraries from ancient times have been following the same patterns of design. Pendant lights, natural skylights, which are good from an aesthetic point of view, but what about the readers who come in? Can the same library feel be brought in a much more efficient way with keeping bibliophiles in priority? 

The Forest Affair is designed by interior designer Ruder D. It brings in a biophilic design style where mother nature need not be compromised. Biophilia bridges the lapse between humans and nature. This design style brings the human affinity towards nature with the presence of indoor plants, gardens and landscapes. 

According to the designer, “The traditional library design aspects will be transformed towards an efficient form. Open spaces will bring readers to spend their time in various ways and bring in their productivity. Balancing between traditional reading, technology will play a major role too, Public Access Computers with ergonomic seating will bring out efficient use of resources”. 

The Forest Affair has the answers to assorted unanswered questions. There are informal spaces for the Gen Z, traditional tables for the evergreen 90’s and reading pods for those who like privacy while reading. 

Forest Affair is a concept which changes the entire outlook of libraries. They can be said as “Neighborhood friendly libraries”. Outdoor spaces with natural ventilation to take a break and sip on a hot cup of coffee. 

But what about our mother nature? Isn’t our nature too in the claws of the harmful effects of global warming?

To address this major problem, The Forest affair takes into consideration sustainability as well. All the furniture right from the book shelves to seating, everything is sustainable and made from natural materials. Walls finishes and amphitheater steps finished with clay plaster. 

When one enters the library, one can feel the freshness of nature through varied indoor plants in forms of wall partitions and living plant walls. 

The Forest Affair is not just a design style. It’s the future. Knowing biophilic design is the path to the future. This space is for all the biophilics out there. Nature has had our backs for a very long time, it’s time now, we take the leap of faith and guide our mother nature towards a healthier tomorrow.

The brilliant concept of interior designer Ruder D received the Best Virtual Experience Award by JD Design Awards 2022. 

Words By: Ruder D

Batch: BSc IDD 2019