The outdoors, often out of reach due to demanding schedules and limited access, can be brought into the workplace to enhance employee wellbeing. Today, we explore the presence of nature into the office and the positive effects of biophilic design.
Why Bringing Nature into the Office Matters
According to recent studies, people now spend up to 90% of their daily lives indoors. Remote work and post-pandemic habits have further reduced contact with green spaces. In urban areas, the opportunity to enjoy nature is often limited by distance and a fast-paced work rhythm.
Yet the human body and mind crave a constant connection to the natural world. The presence of plants, natural light, and fresh air promotes both physical and mental health, helping to lower stress and increase productivity. Research shows that even just looking at greenery in indoor spaces can reduce blood pressure and anxiety levels, with a positive impact on overall mood and wellbeing.
Biophilic Design: a Design Approach for Workplace Wellbeing
Bringing nature into the office means designing workspaces that integrate natural elements into everyday environments. Biophilic design is now at the heart of many office interior projects, aiming to enhance the quality of work life. According to a study by the University of Technology Sydney, nature-inspired workspaces bring measurable benefits:
- Up to 15% increase in productivity
- A boost in creativity and energy perception of over 65%
- A 40% drop in tension and hostility among coworkers
- A 38% decrease in perceived fatigue
Moreover, research from Wageningen Environmental Research reveals that green offices can reduce sick days by up to 20%.
How to Introduce Nature into the Office: Strategies and Solutions
Successfully integrating nature into office spaces requires a thoughtful and well-structured design approach. Below are the main solutions proposed by Level Office Landscape for nature-forward office environments.
Greenery and Air Quality in the Office
Office plants go beyond decoration. They absorb harmful volatile organic compounds such as benzene and formaldehyde, purifying the air and improving environmental quality. Living walls, vertical gardens, and integrated vegetation systems help reduce indoor pollution and may lessen exposure to electromagnetic waves from electronic devices.
Common solutions include:
- Moss-covered walls requiring no maintenance
- Desk partitions equipped with greenery
- Green rooms with circadian lighting and natural finishes
Natural Materials for Furniture and Finishes
Material choice plays a crucial role in biophilic design. Using wood, stone, and glass helps reconnect interior spaces with nature, improving perceived comfort. Natural materials in furniture and accessories create a more welcoming, productive work environment. Popular solutions include:
- Worktops and storage units in wood or wood-effect finishes
- Custom shelving and fitted walls made from natural materials
Acoustic Comfort and Sound Wellbeing
Acoustics are often overlooked in open-plan offices. Natural elements can improve sound comfort by dampening noise levels. Green walls and plant-based materials trap sound waves and reduce reverberation across both high and low frequencies. The most effective solutions include:
- Vertical green panels with sound-absorbing properties
- Dividing walls covered in moss or natural greenery
- Slatted wooden acoustic panels and micro-perforated ceilings
These systems enhance acoustic quality, support concentration, and minimize stress from background noise.
Green Offices: Designing for Wellbeing
Integrating nature into the workplace is now a strategic move for companies looking to enhance employee wellness and performance. Biophilic design allows for healthier, more inspiring spaces that meet both sustainability goals and the growing demand for quality in work environments.
Level Office Landscape offers tailored solutions for green office design, combining natural elements, sustainable materials, and advanced furniture systems. For a consultation or free quote, contact the technical office at +39 039 9284831 or fill out the online form here.