How to do it
Here are some ways you can incorporate biophilic design in your workspace:
Use natural materials and finishes – such as wood panelling – which are softer on the eye than bright colours. It’s important to make sure that employees have adequate natural light, and proper ventilation. Scents and sounds such as birdsong and running water help employees to feel more relaxed.
Incorporating plants is perhaps the easiest way to implement biophilic design – and there are lots of exciting ways to use planting in workspaces.
Interior trees can really imbue a space with a sense of the outdoors; they also significantly reduce noise levels and improve the air quality. If you don’t have room for trees, smaller plant displays can be used. A great example is Pukka Herbs’ offices in Bristol, which include bespoke planters made of reclaimed timber, galvanised planters with Kentia Palms and other air purifying plants, as well as beautiful hanging planters with trailing plants. Green walls and moss walls are a great way to add greenery without taking up floor space – the same goes for small desktop planters.
The possibilities are endless.
Investment for the future
By embracing the concept of biophilic design, we have the opportunity to significantly improve our working environments, which in turn will lead to people being healthier, more productive and feeling a greater sense of happiness and wellbeing in the workplace. It goes without saying that this will bring economic benefits to businesses too through reduced employee turnover, increased productivity and reduced absenteeism. Furthermore, by creating spaces which bring the outdoors in, we will also be forming sustainable workplaces for future generations.
About PlantCare
PlantCare was established in 1976, and has grown to become a leading supplier of exceptional interior planting and top-quality plant maintenance services. PlantCare’s reputation is built on uncompromising customer care in delivering services tailored to your needs.
1 Oktras
2 Study by Dr Craig Knight (psychologist) et al. University of Exeter
3 Study by New University of Technology Sydney
4 Study by Prof. Dr. Tøve Fjeld, Agricultural University of Norway
5 Interface research quoted in Forbes