<![CDATA[Extreme population density in the coastal area of Kenjeran and the suburban area of Gunung Anyar, Surabaya City, directly impacts the degradation of the built environment, high thermal discomfort, and the lack of green open spaces. This study aims to formulate an adaptive biophilic architecture model for dense settlements through the prototype design of a communal dormitory building. The method applied is an exploratory mixed-method combining a descriptive qualitative approach (field spatial observations and in-depth interviews with residents) and digital computational simulation using Sketch-upsoftware. Qualitative analysis reveals that static air circulation, trapped coastal humidity, and psychological stress caused by an arid environment are the primary challenges faced by the community in both locations. Meanwhile, the environmental performance simulation results on the dormitory prototype demonstrate that biophilic interventions via vertical green facades significantly reduce outer wall surface temperatures. The integration of an inner courtyard and a roof garden also successfully optimizes cross-ventilation, leading to a projected 18% annual reduction in artificial cooling (AC) energy loads. This study concludes that biophilic architecture effectively serves as an emotional restorative oasis and an energy efficiency instrument. The implications of this research are expected to serve as a policy reference for the Surabaya City Government in restructuring dense settlements into healthy and climate-resilient areas.]]>
