One of the huge trends at the moment, and it is backed up by some seriously impressive statistics – biophilic office design.
Studies have shown that a biophilic office design increases productivity by up to 8%, with a big drop in employee sick days.
We all know that productivity means profits in the end, so focusing on the way an office is designed, and equipping it with cool office furniture is a vital part of the whole deal. If you have no idea what biophilia is, this is the process of bringing nature into the office, and reaping the benefits of greenery.
As humans, we feel calmer when we are surrounded by Mother Nature’s best, so it makes sense to take that calm and serene feeling into the office. This can be done in a big way, perhaps with a living wall or even a live tree in the middle of your boardroom, strategically surrounded by boardroom leather chairs, or it can be done more subtly. Most small businesses, or those who are just beginning to look into the idea of biophilia will prefer to start smaller and perhaps work their way up in time. In this case, you need to know how to take those small steps towards a fully biophilic office, without breaking the bank. Here are four ways to do exactly that.
A Natural Decor
Going for a decor which is more natural in general is the first step towards achieving biophilia. Think about the colours in a forest or a field to give you an idea of what we’re talking about. Browns of varying shades, greens, whites, creams, and the blue of the sky are calm and earthy shades which bring serenity to an office, but which also inspire creativity at the same time.
Think about collaborative office desks to continue the free and calm feel to your space, but the colour of your walls, flooring colour choices and the colour of your office furniture is also a vital part of the puzzle.
A Few Plants Here and There
Biophilia doesn’t have to be about trees and endless shrubbery, it can be about simply incorporating the odd plant here and there, and looking at simply being more natural in general. A plant on a desk is very effective in terms of better air quality for the entire office, but for the calming feel of being close to nature too. Your reception area could also be dotted with a little greenery, as well as your boardroom, for a more chilled out feel. Add in a boardroom table with cable management to hide any long wires and cables and maintain that natural feel.
Being ‘Greener’ in General
Biophilia can also be about sustainability and recycling, so incorporate an eco-friendly feel to your office space to get the ball rolling. Have recycling bins in your office space, encourage staff to walk to work or car share, and think about your energy efficiency too.
Leaving printers, monitors, and other devices on stand by is a big no no for energy, so being a little more aware of your carbon footprint in general is a good point to start with.
More Natural Light
If you have large windows, it’s time to take down those blinds and let the light in! Do your best to increase the amount of natural light you have coming into your office space and you’ll notice benefits coming your way. Natural light is far less damaging to the eyes and doesn’t have the same headache-inducing effects as artificial light, whilst also making the space simply feel better overall.
Taking the first steps towards biophilic design doesn’t have to be huge, and these baby steps can lead you towards
a more nature-inspired design in no time!