The Advantages of Biophilic Office Design
Biophilic office design is the art of bringing the outdoors inside. From scattering a few plants throughout an indoor space to creating a full outdoor experience, these features have been linked to sparking positivity throughout offices. In fact, this type of design is so impactful that it’s become a popular choice for many companies focused on improving the health and wellbeing of their workforce. Keep reading to learn more about the advantages of biophilic office design and why it might be a good option for you.
Increases Team Productivity
It’s no surprise that being surrounded by nature makes people feel better. Examples of design that incorporates nature—or biophilic design as it’s often called—includes elements such as daylight, living plants, and water. Having access to these elements, especially natural light, has been found to encourage productivity. For example, daylight increases the amount of melatonin in our bodies resulting in an energy boost, which in turn uplifts our mood and even lowers anxiety levels. Conversely, dim lighting can make people feel drowsy and lose their sense of motivation. Since Americans spend up to 90 percent of their time indoors, it makes sense why biophilic design has become a popular choice for offices.
Promotes Health and Well-Being
One simple way to improve the air quality within an office is to add greenery. Living plants not only absorb pollutants and airborne toxins, but they also pull water vapors into the air. This is extremely beneficial in an office setting which is often dry—it’s very similar to the effect of having a humidifier running but without the hassle of refilling the water tank and cleaning out the filter. When air is balanced, the likelihood of viruses and allergens spreading is substantially lowered. Aside from providing physical health benefits, exposure to greenery also promotes a soothing, calm vibe, ultimately benefiting our mental health.
Retains Employees
Another key advantage of biophilic office design is employee retention. Employees often prioritize workplace happiness when searching for jobs. When employees feel comfortable and happy about the environment they work in, they are less likely to want to leave. Because of this, a common trend in workplace design is curating offices that feel less sterile. A simple way of achieving a warmer environment is by selecting furniture crafted from natural wood. Layering this aesthetic with greenery and natural daylight creates a harmonious ambiance indicative of residential design, which makes employees feel more at home while at work.
Creates a Prime Branding Opportunity
Biophilic design is a unique way to create a lasting impression with clients. Being greeted by a water feature, such as a fountain, in the reception space will exude a feeling of tranquility upon entering your office. A wall filled with greenery adds texture and color while giving people a great focal point. Many companies use these natural elements as an opportunity for unique logo placement. The impact of placing your logo directly within a green wall, for example, will ensure it isn’t overlooked.
Whether you’re looking to incorporate more biophilic design elements into your office space or simply want a change, Rework is here to help. We specialize in used office equipment and have a large variety of expertly refurbished and new office furniture available. For more information about our products and services, visit our website or pop into our Chicago showroom.
