With staff well-being and a positive working environment at the forefront of every business owner’s mind, there’s never been a better time to incorporate biophilic design into your workplace.
Biophilic design is proven to boost staff productivity and improve moods, With spaces specifically designed to reduce anxiety and enhance concentration.
So, what exactly is biophilic office design and can you incorporate it?
What is biophilic office design?
Defined as the innate human instinct to connect with nature and other living beings, biophilic office design brings nature and natural elements into the office.
It’s not just about inserting a few plants on desks; it’s about utilising raw, natural materials and patterns to maintain a connection to nature within a built environment.
What are the benefits of having a biophilic office?
Biophilic design not only looks impressive but provides a plethora of proven benefits to any workplace:
Improves air quality
Live plants improve air quality by using carbon dioxide to produce oxygen. During photosynthesis, they also absorb volatile organic compounds found in domestic cleaning products.
Relieves stress and improves mental well-being
In January 2021, 1 in 4 employees met the criteria for ‘clinically relevant symptoms of anxiety and depression, with 1 in 5 employees citing a lack of productivity concerning poor mental health.
Studies have shown that a human’s ability to relate to nature can alleviate stress and improve mental well-being, lessening symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Increases productivity
Incorporating natural elements in the workplace can improve concentration and productivity. Studies show that employees are 15% more productive when exposed to more naturally engaging and stimulating surroundings.
Attracts and retains talent
Biophilic office design reflects a sustainable work environment and can help to attract and retain talent. Prospects and employees want to see eco-friendly office design that matches company sustainability values and culture.
Promotes happiness
Biophilic elements make us feel more positive and encourage a more positive frame of mind. Unsurprisingly positive people have an impact on others and take better care of themselves intern reducing sick days.
How can biophilia be incorporated into the office?
Ingrained into the very ‘roots’ of office design, biophilic offices can incorporate a wide range of natural elements.
Bring natural light in
Access to natural light is incredibly important in biophilic office design as it can significantly impact our well-being. Ensure there is a flow of natural light throughout the office and, where possible, utilise outdoor spaces such as rooftops, balconies, or gardens. If you cannot access natural light, consider integrating lighting that changes throughout the day to mimic the circadian rhythm.
Utilise colour textures and patterns
The use of colours, textures and patterns is encouraged, as these are proven to have a positive psychological impact on the human brain, as they mimic the feeling of being outdoors. In addition, textured accents, such as wood and stone, are a great way to bring more natural elements into the workplace.
Introduce greenery
One of the simplest ways to incorporate biophilic design into your office is through plants. From trees and living walls to hanging baskets and green art, there are a variety of options that can transform your environment.
Biophilic office design in London
From living walls and water features to incorporating more natural lighting, all office environments can embrace and reap the benefits of biophilic office design, regardless of size, budget and location.
If you’re looking to introduce biophilic design into your office or commercial asset, speak to our team today by calling (0)208 057 7077
