How Nature-Inspired Designs Improve Workplace Wellbeing

With the hustle and bustle of the modern workplace, many people are beginning to feel overwhelmed and disconnected from nature. However, recent studies show that incorporating nature-inspired designs into workspaces can significantly enhance employee wellbeing, productivity, and overall job satisfaction. This blog post explores the concept of nature-inspired design and its benefits for workplaces.

Nature-Inspired Design

Nature-inspired design refers to the integration of natural elements into the workplace environment. This approach often involves the use of natural materials, colours from nature, and the incorporation of plant life. Many businesses are now realising that a more organic and inviting workspace can lead to happier, healthier employees.

Research indicates that a well-designed workspace can reduce stress and improve mental health. According to a study published in the "Journal of Environmental Psychology," employees who work in environments with natural elements exhibited 15% higher levels of wellbeing and productivity compared to those in traditional office setups.

Wellness space in the office with greenery promotes relaxation.

Additionally, organisations that embrace nature-inspired designs tend to attract and retain talent better. In a competitive job market, providing an aesthetically pleasing and health-promoting work environment can give companies a considerable advantage.

Benefits of Integrating Nature in Workspaces

Integrating nature into workplace design can lead to numerous benefits that affect both employees and the organisation as a whole. Below are a few of the critical advantages:

1. Enhanced Creativity: Exposure to natural elements can improve creative thinking. A serene and visually appealing environment encourages brainstorming and innovative thinking. Implementing natural elements like plants or nature-themed artwork can ignite inspiration.

   
   

2. Improved Focus and Productivity: Natural light and vistas play a vital role in keeping employees engaged. A study by the "Heschong Mahone Group" found that employees with access to natural light showed 51% fewer errors and had 63% higher productivity levels than those who worked in artificially lit environments.

   
   

3. Reduced Stress Levels: Incorporating elements of nature into the office environment helps reduce stress and anxiety. Studies indicate that mere greenery can lower cortisol levels, the stress hormone, promoting overall relaxation.

   
   

4. Enhanced Employee Health: Indoor plants help filter the air and boost oxygen levels, leading to a healthier workplace. Increased airflow and reduced airborne toxins help decrease sick days and enhance overall employee health.

   
   

5. Increased Employee Satisfaction: Employees are more likely to feel satisfied and valued when their employer creates a calming and beautiful work environment. Such a setting enhances an organisation's reputation and retains talent.

   
   

Office space with large windows allows natural light to enhance the workspace.

What are the 5 Senses of Biophilic Design?

Biophilic design taps into our innate desire to connect with nature. This concept involves not only visual elements but also engages all five senses. Here is how each sense can be incorporated into nature-inspired designs:

1. Sight: Utilise natural light, green spaces, and soothing colors to create a warm atmosphere. Incorporate large windows, glass walls, and nature-themed artwork that allows employees to feel connected to the outdoors.

   
   

2. Sound: The sounds of nature can be relaxing. Consider adding water features, such as fountains, for a calming soundscape. Background music featuring natural sounds like rustling leaves or flowing water can enhance the feeling of being in a natural setting.

   
   

3. Touch: Use natural materials, such as wood and stone, in the furniture and decor. Textures that mimic nature, like soft fabrics or rough stone finishes, can also create a more tactile experience.

   
   

4. Taste: Offering natural, healthy snacks can enhance the workplace environment. Encourage employees to enjoy seasonal fruits and promote a culture of wellness through healthy eating choices.

   
   

5. Smell: Aromatherapy can play a vital role in a nature-inspired office. Use essential oils or natural scents from plants to create an inviting atmosphere. Scents like lavender or eucalyptus can promote relaxation and focus.

   
   

Modern office design with indoor plants supports biophilic philosophy.

Practical Tips to Implement Nature-Inspired Designs

Creating a nature-inspired workplace does not have to be extensive or costly. Here are practical tips on how to introduce these concepts into your workspace:

1. Incorporate Indoor Plants: Invest in a few low-maintenance plants like snake plants or pothos that can thrive indoors. Arrange them creatively around the workspace to add greenery without taking up much room.

   
   

2. Maximise Natural Light: Rearranging office layouts to maximise natural light can drastically change the ambiance. If possible, remove barriers such as tall cubicle walls that block light.

   
   

3. Use Natural Colors: Decorate with colors found in nature. Earthy tones like greens, browns, and blues can create a calming atmosphere and help employees feel more at ease.

   
   

4. Design Flexible Spaces: Create spaces where employees can step away from their desks. Consider outdoor seating arrangements or quiet areas where they can take a break surrounded by nature.

   
   

5. Incorporate Natural Materials: Use organic materials for office furniture, such as reclaimed wood or bamboo. This not only enhances aesthetics but also aligns with sustainability practices.

   
   

Real-Life Examples of Nature-Inspired Workplaces

Several companies have successfully implemented nature-inspired designs in their offices, showcasing the positive impact these changes can have on workplace wellbeing.

• Google: Known for its innovative workspaces, Google incorporates plenty of green vegetation in its office environments. From rooftop gardens to indoor plants, they prioritise natural elements to enhance employee creativity.

  
  

• Steelcase: This company focused on making its workspaces more biophilic by integrating natural structures and shapes in their furniture. The use of organic materials creates a calming environment that mirrors the outdoors.

  
  

• Amazon: Amazon’s Spheres in Seattle feature over 40,000 plants from cloud forests around the world. These glass structures serve as a unique gathering space designed to immerse employees in nature.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Nature-inspired design is not just a trend; it is a philosophy that recognises the fundamental need for balance in modern life. By integrating elements that evoke the natural world, workplaces can become more than just a place to work; they can become a sanctuary for creativity, productivity, and mental wellbeing. Investing in biophilic office design can transform the work experience, ultimately leading to higher employee satisfaction and retention. Making small changes can lead to meaningful improvements in workplace wellbeing—an investment worth prioritising for the future.