Introduction

The core issue of this study is to examine and analyze the extent to which biophilic architectural principles have been realized in ecotourism accommodations located in the peri-urban areas of Garmsar County. This investigation aims to propose strategies for improving spatial quality and enhancing environmental and psychological sustainability in the design of these spaces. Relying on survey-based analysis and grounded in a well-established theoretical framework of biophilic architecture, the study seeks to answer the following key questions: To what extent have Garmsar’s ecotourism lodges integrated biophilic indicators in their design? And what are the main factors contributing to the enhancement of their current condition? Addressing these questions can contribute meaningfully to the advancement of biophilic architecture in Iran’s ecotourism accommodations and promote sustainable tourism development in peripheral areas.



Methodology

The research adopts a descriptive-analytical and in-depth approach, based on the analysis of survey data. Data were collected using a researcher-designed questionnaire. The data analysis followed a quantitative methodology, employing appropriate statistical tests. The statistical population consisted of tourists who had stayed in tourist accommodations located in the rural outskirts of Garmsar city. Since the total population size was unknown, the sampling method was based on accessible (convenience) sampling. Over a two-month period, a total of 150 available tourists were surveyed. The content validity of the questionnaire was confirmed by experts, and its reliability was verified through Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, which exceeded 0.70. Data were analyzed using SPSS software, and statistical analyses were performed using appropriate tests, including the one-sample t-test and factor analysis.



Results and discussion

The analysis of biophilic architecture indicators in peri-urban ecotourism accommodations in Garmsar (using the binomial test) shows that among the 18 examined indicators, only one—climate-responsive design (p = 0.165)—does not have a statistically significant difference compared to the test value. This means that most indicators, from the respondents' viewpoint, are different from the average (50%) and are mostly statistically significant. Indicators with a mean score above 3 and a significance level below 0.05 are considered relative strengths in the biophilic design of accommodations, whereas indicators with a mean score below 3 indicate weaknesses or lack of attention in those architectural aspects.

Accordingly, indicators such as nature-inspired colors (mean = 4.02), transitional spaces like verandas and courtyards (3.66), areas for interacting with nature like small gardens (3.85), the use of natural materials such as wood and stone (3.30), and natural lighting (3.29) have performed well and have been approved by the majority of respondents. These elements effectively strengthen the sense of connection with nature and enhance the biophilic accommodation experience.

In contrast, indicators such as visual access to natural landscapes (2.20), natural sounds like water or birds (2.14), rainwater harvesting systems (2.40), the use of renewable energy (2.08), simulated natural lighting (2.88), diversity and complexity in forms (2.56), and natural patterns in design (2.27) all had mean scores below the average level (3) and were statistically significant (p < 0.05). These findings indicate that these elements are less observed in the design of peri-urban accommodations in Garmsar or are not noticeable in practice. Therefore, they can be considered as opportunities for improving design and enhancing environmental quality.

Another noteworthy point is that the overall mean of biophilic architecture indicators was 2.911, which, although slightly below the numeric average level of 3, is statistically significant (p = 0.027). This means that overall, the biophilic design status of the studied accommodations is relatively moderate, but with the implementation of optimization policies, it can be improved.

Moreover, the factor analysis showed that managerial and policy factors (48.97%), cultural and social factors (29.81%), and design and environmental factors (10.53%) are effective in promoting biophilic architecture in ecotourism accommodations. These factors collectively account for 73.5% of the impact, with cultural and social factors having the highest effect (Beta = 0.734) in enhancing biophilic architecture in tourism accommodations.





Conclusion

The findings indicate that in the design of peri-urban ecotourism accommodations, certain biophilic architectural indicators have been appropriately considered. The use of natural elements such as nature-inspired colors, semi-open spaces like verandas and courtyards, the presence of vegetation, natural lighting, and local materials reflect a conscious effort to strengthen the human-nature connection in these spaces. These features have not only enhanced the environmental appeal but also contributed to improved sensory perception and guest satisfaction.

However, some deficiencies are evident in the less tangible dimensions of design. Elements such as views toward natural landscapes, incorporation of natural sounds, use of renewable energy, and designs inspired by natural patterns have been either underutilized or designed in ways that are not easily perceived by users. This suggests that designers have primarily focused on the visible and tangible aspects of nature, with insufficient attention given to environmental infrastructure, sense of place, and deeper emotional and psychological connections with nature.

It is therefore recommended that a context-specific biophilic design framework tailored to Garmsar’s climate and the nature of ecotourism accommodations be developed and prioritized.