A biophilic design focuses on the aspects of nature that affect our physical and mental health.
A biophilic design focuses on the aspects of nature that affect our physical and mental health. It also aims to address the artificial quality of office environments. Many companies have accepted biophilic design in the workplace for its benefits. Learn how to add these biophilic elements to the office space below.
Benefits of a Biophilic Design
Biophilic design supports our innate need to interact with nature in this modern environment. Also, the office building improves human health and increases cognitive function in a biophilic space. Its benefits include:
- Maximizes acoustic comfort
- Improves thermal comfort, air quality, and ventilation
- Generate attractive internal and external views of nature
- Uses natural textures, patterns, and colors
- Enhances artificial and natural lighting
- Integrates building materials such as perforated stone, metal, and wood
Ways to Add Biophilic Elements into the Workplace
Embrace Natural Light
Welcome all the natural light your work office comes with. If possible, choose a building with massive windows. Otherwise, work with what you have. This means removing musty curtains, blinds, and other aspects that may block the light path. In addition, arrange the office furniture to work with the light.
Use Different Textures
Consider utilizing different textures and shapes in the office. To introduce natural elements, you don’t have to work on the space again. For example, your assistant’s desk can be wavy and constructed from several wood panels.
Develop a Holistic Flow to the Greenery
Plenty of foliage is the fundamental of biophilic design. Adding planters is another way to integrate biophilic design elements into the office space. However, avoid isolated pots since they don’t contribute to the biophilic effect. Instead, planters can be used to define line walls and pathways or make little islands of plants that will release calmness as one moves in that space.
Improve Air Quality
Air quality is critical for the health of employees and clients. So, make sure to use air filters to open up ventilation between the inside and outside. Also, ensure there are various plants in your office setting.
Consider Growing a Green Wall
If possible, try to transform an entire wall into a green one. If that is impossible, consider hanging planters vertically on your walls to create a similar green effect.
Choose Edwards & Hill for Your Office Furniture and Design Needs
Are you ready to redesign your office to maximize productivity and creative thinking? Edwards & Hill can help you design and install the perfect designs for your business. Edwards & Hill is a leading office, education, medical, and hospitality furniture provider with high-quality design and installation services for any style or scale. We have our headquarters in Annapolis Junction, Maryland, and another convenient office location in St. Louis, Missouri. If you are ready to get your office design started, contact us online or give us a call at 301-317-4250. For the St. Louis office, please call 314-797-5077. For more furniture design tips, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.