The average office worker spends a significant portion of their life indoors, often under harsh fluorescent lights and surrounded by sterile walls. This disconnect from nature can lead to a range of issues, including stress, decreased productivity, and even health problems.
Biophilic design offers a simple yet powerful solution. Whether you have a suite of offices for rent in Abbotsford or simply want to spice up your home office, biophilic design can help you create a more calming, inspiring, and healthy working environment. Research has shown that biophilic offices lead to increased employee well-being, reduced stress levels, and even improved cognitive function.
So, how can you harness the power of biophilic design in your space? Here are five easy ways to get started:
1. Unleash the Power of Plants
Plants are, of course, the key element of biophilic design. Having a variety of live plants throughout the office adds life and beauty while purifying the air, reducing noise levels, and boosting creativity.
Here are our favourite ways to work plants into your office decor:
- Green Walls: Living walls, also known as vertical gardens, are a stunning way to incorporate a large amount of greenery into a limited space. They come in various sizes and styles, making them suitable for both large and small offices.
- Desktop Gardens: Smaller plants on desks and workstations provide a personal touch and a constant reminder of nature. To ensure these plants thrive, opt for low-maintenance varieties like succulents.
- Hanging Planters: Suspended planters add a touch of whimsy and free up valuable floor space. They’re perfect for areas with limited natural light, as many hanging plants thrive in shadier environments.
2. Let the Sunshine in
Natural light is essential for our well-being. It regulates our circadian rhythm, improves mood, and boosts cognitive function. To maximise the natural light in your space, try the following:
- Give Your Windows Some Love: Clean them regularly, remove heavy curtains, and consider skylights for windowless areas.
- Strategic Furniture Placement: Arrange furniture to promote natural light flow throughout the office. Avoid blocking windows with tall bookcases or filing cabinets.
- Light Shelves: Light shelves are strategically placed shelves that use light guides or mirrors to distribute natural light deeper into the workspace.
3. Bring in Natural Materials
Materials like wood, stone, and bamboo create a sense of warmth, comfort, and connection to the outdoors. So opt for desks, chairs, and tables made from sustainable sources. Wood adds visual interest and warmth to the office, creating a more inviting atmosphere. Woven elements like baskets, rugs, or wall hangings made from natural fibres can add texture and visual interest while bringing a touch of nature indoors.
4. Play with Patterns and Textures
Even if you can’t have a living wall in your office, you can still evoke the feeling of nature through biophilic patterns and textures. Incorporate furniture and design elements with organic curves and rounded edges, mimicking the forms found in nature. You could even create a statement wall with a beautiful nature-inspired mural.
5. Create a Sensory Oasis with Water Features
The sound of trickling water is a natural stress reliever. Consider incorporating a water feature into your office design. Small tabletop fountains add a touch of tranquillity to common areas or break rooms. The gentle sound of flowing water can help employees relax and refocus. Water walls are larger, fixed installations that create a stunning visual and auditory experience. They can be a focal point in the lobby or reception area.
By incorporating these simple biophilic design principles, you can create a more inspiring and healthy work environment for your employees.
