Integrated Virtual Reality Innovation Furniture Design to Induce Positive Feelings with "Biomimicry" Approach

Abstract

Rapid urban expansion has increasingly distanced people from nature, resulting in significant impacts on mental health, stress levels, and overall quality of life. The concept of Biomimicry, combined with the use of simulated nature, has therefore been introduced to reconnect urban populations with natural environments through the design of spaces and products inspired by ecological systems. When integrated with Virtual Reality (VR)—a technology capable of reproducing realistic natural images, sounds, and atmospheres—these design approaches provide a powerful tool for mitigating stress and enhancing attention restoration, as both real and simulated nature have been shown to promote psychological well-being. Within this context, the researcher developed an innovative biomimicry-inspired rocking chair integrated with VR, designed to substitute natural experiences for urban residents in their daily lives. The chair's form, materials, structural elements, and rhythmic motion were derived from principles found in nature, while the VR system delivered immersive natural scenes and sounds. Experimental trials conducted in a simulated natural environment demonstrated that users experienced markedly higher levels of relaxation, improved focus, and enhanced positive emotions compared with the use of a conventional chair. These findings indicate that simulated nature and biomimicry-based design function as effective mechanisms for improving urban well-being in a sustainable manner.

This study aimed to design and evaluate an innovative rocking-chair prototype capable of inducing positive emotions by applying biomimicry principles and integrating VR technology. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative data. The quantitative phase utilized questionnaires administered to 432 participants, examining perceptions toward the biomimicry-based rocking-chair concept integrated with VR. The qualitative phase involved semi-structured interviews with 50 participants who tested the prototype and assessed their emotional responses after use. Primary data were collected from surveys and interviews, while secondary data from theoretical literature enriched the depth and validity of the analysis. The research findings reveal that furniture designed through biomimicry, when combined with VR, effectively enhances users perceived connectedness to nature, reduces stress, and promotes relaxation even within indoor environments or densely populated urban areas with limited green space. Participants also reported significantly higher levels of positive emotions, indicating that simulated natural experiences can partly compensate for the absence of real nature in everyday life. As such, biomimicry offers strong potential for developing furniture innovations that not only meet functional needs but also support mental well-being. When integrated with VR capable of simulating forests, waterfalls, or seaside environments, the therapeutic value of such designs becomes even more pronounced. Accordingly, the results suggest promising applications for commercial product development and service innovations aimed at creating simulated natural environments for urban dwellers—such as relaxation furniture, VR-based therapy rooms, or restorative spaces in organizational settings. The concept also holds potential benefits for older adults and individuals experiencing chronic stress, offering a practical means of emotional restoration and improved well-being. In conclusion, the biomimicry-inspired rocking chair integrated with VR technology demonstrates strong effectiveness in generating simulated natural experiences that enhance positive emotions. The experimental results confirm increased relaxation, reduced stress, and greater perceived connectedness to nature among users, even in closed environments or cities lacking green spaces. This innovation therefore presents significant potential for future development as a therapeutic product or service that supports emotional well-being in urban populations. It can be applied across various settings including homes, hospitals, schools, and workplaces to improve quality of life and promote environments that nurture mental health. Overall, the findings highlight the broad potential of innovative furniture design that brings nature back into urban living in a safe, sustainable, and technologically aligned manner.