Biophilic Design 101: Everything You Should Know for a Nature-Infused Office

Picture this: a workspace where the air is fresher than a morning breeze, productivity blooms like a garden in spring, and stress withers away faster than a forgotten houseplant. Sounds like a dream, right?

In today's fast-paced and technology-driven world, the importance of nature and its impact on our well-being often gets overlooked. Meet biophilic design, a guiding light that reignites our innate connection with the natural world. 

Biophilic design is more than just a fancy term; it's a philosophy, a way of crafting spaces honouring our deep-seated love affair with nature. It seeks to bridge the gap between our built environments and the enchanting outdoors, creating harmonious and thriving spaces that uplift our well-being, boost our productivity, and ignite our creativity.

So, if you're yearning for an office infused with the magic of nature, here's your guide to the captivating world of biophilic design.

Why Embrace Biophilic Design: The Benefits

Now, you might wonder, "Why bother bringing nature indoors?" Well, the benefits are truly remarkable. About 90% of our time is spent indoors - in our homes, offices, or other enclosed spaces. Yet, we often underestimate the profound impact our environment has on our well-being.

Studies have shown that incorporating biophilic elements into office spaces can boost productivity, enhance creativity, and improve overall well-being. A report from The Global Impact of Biophilic Design in the Workplace reveals that a third of office workers (33%) consider the design of an office when deciding where to work. That's right - the design of a workspace can sway your decision to join a company!

Cultivating Well-being: Flexibility and Employee Happiness

Biophilic design isn't just about pretty plants and natural materials; it's about nurturing well-being. Flexible spaces empower employees to choose their work settings, promoting comfort and creativity. Adjustable desks, cosy seating areas, and outdoor retreats offer a variety of options to suit individual needs. Remember, happy employees are productive employees!

When it comes to creating a workspace that caters to your employees' individual needs and preferences, adjustable desks play a key role. Take the Wolfe desk, for example, a robust and versatile piece of furniture inspired by Sir John Wolfe Barry, the mastermind behind London's iconic Tower Bridge.

The Wolfe desk's telescopic frame and height-adjustable feature make it futureproof, adapting effortlessly to the changing demands of a growing workforce. Just like the silent, moveable bridge of Tower Bridge, the Wolfe desk embodies the spirit of quiet fluidity and ingenious craftsmanship. Consider the Wolfe desk to provide your team with the flexibility they need to thrive.

Sustainable Sensibilities: Building a Greener Future

By reconnecting with nature, we reduce stress levels, increase job satisfaction, and enjoy a more harmonious work environment. But that's not all – biophilic design also improves air quality, promotes sustainable practices, and creates a more visually appealing and stimulating workspace.

Nature-inspired design fosters well-being and sustainability in your office. When creating a nature-infused office, consider the environmental impact of your choices. Integrating eco-friendly materials and products into your nature-infused office not only enhances the well-being of your employees but also demonstrates your commitment to building a greener future. Let Haiken's expertise and our range of sustainable solutions guide you in creating a workspace that embraces the beauty of nature while minimizing its environmental footprint.

How to embrace biophilic design: Nature's Tools for Office Transformation

Now let's dive into the juicy bits – the elements that bring nature's touch to your workspace. Here are some ways you can embrace biophilic design and invite nature into your indoor spaces:

1. Light Up Your Life

Natural light is the superhero of biophilic design. It lifts our spirits, reduces energy consumption, and gives our eyes a break from the glaring fluorescent lights. Another report from The Global Impact of Biophilic Design in the Workplace reveals a shocking truth - a whopping 47% of workers have no access to natural light in their work environments. 

Isn't it intriguing that natural light emerges as the number one requested element in the workplace? Integrating natural light into your space is essential for reaping its benefits. Start by maximizing the number and size of windows, considering skylights or light wells for additional sunlight. You can also avoid obstructing windows with heavy curtains and explore glass partitions to enhance light flow while maintaining privacy with frosted or translucent options. 

Reflective surfaces like light-coloured walls and strategic placement of mirrors optimize light distribution. Arrange furniture near windows to provide direct access to natural light, avoiding shadow-casting objects. Regular window maintenance and removing external obstructions ensure optimal light transmission. Implementing these strategies creates an inviting space that fosters well-being, productivity and a strong connection to the outdoors.

2. Plant Power

Forget about boring grey cubicles; it's time to welcome our leafy friends into the office. Plants not only freshen the air but also bring life, colour, and a touch of zen to the workspace. 

Surprisingly, a recent source reveals that a staggering 58% of workers lack greenery in their work environment. It's high time we change that! Whether it's a vertical garden on a feature wall, potted plants scattered throughout, or hanging planters swaying from the ceiling, the presence of plants breathes vitality into every corner.

Speaking of incorporating nature into your workspace, have you heard about the Olmstead planter? The Olmstead planter is a clever storage solution inspired by Frederick Law Olmstead. With a discreet slit on top, it keeps your space clean and organized by storing a bin inside. It also adds a touch of greenery, striking a perfect balance between functionality and aesthetics.

3. Material Matters

Say goodbye to cold, lifeless materials and say hello to the wonders of nature. Wood, stone, and bamboo add warmth, texture, and a little eco-friendly magic to your surroundings. From the floor beneath your feet to the furniture you sit on, natural materials create an inviting ambience.

But it's not just about aesthetics. Natural materials create an inviting ambience that resonates with our connection to the environment. Their tactile qualities engage our senses, allowing us to experience the textures and patterns inspired by nature.

For example, Haiken's Zilenzio product line offers a range of sound-absorbing panels that not only enhance acoustic performance but also embrace sustainability. These panels incorporate stone wool, a natural and eco-friendly material known for its excellent sound absorption properties.

One example is the Kyoto partition, which is inspired by the serene tearooms of Japan. Crafted with frames in ash, this partition embodies the principle of simplicity and functionality. By choosing materials like ash, which is known for its durability and sustainability, you contribute to the creation of a nature-infused office that aligns with your values of environmental responsibility.

4. H2O Show

Water features go beyond mere visual appeal; they create an immersive experience that engages multiple senses. The gentle trickling of a fountain or the bubbling flow of water in an aquarium can induce tranquillity and relaxation, acting as a natural remedy for workplace stress. 

Beyond their aesthetic and psychological benefits, water features contribute to a healthier indoor environment. They act as natural humidifiers, increasing moisture and improving air quality, especially in dry or air-conditioned spaces. Additionally, the presence of water helps reduce ambient noise, fostering a peaceful and pleasant work environment.

5. Eye Candy 

Picture adorning your walls with captivating paintings or photographs that depict vibrant floral arrangements, captivating wildlife, or breathtaking seascapes. These artful masterpieces infuse your workspace with the very essence of nature, creating an environment that nurtures your creativity and enhances your professional endeavours.

Consider incorporating a colour palette inspired by nature into your office design. Earthy tones like greens, blues, browns, and yellows can create a sense of tranquillity and connection to the natural world. These colours can be used on walls, furniture, and accent pieces to create a harmonious and calming atmosphere.

For example, imagine the calming effect of a muted green accent wall resembling a lush forest or the soothing presence of ocean-inspired blues in a breakout area. By integrating natural colours into your workspace, you can evoke the serenity and vitality found in the great outdoors, promoting a sense of balance and well-being among employees.

The presence of nature-inspired visuals adds depth, texture, and visual intrigue to your office space. By curating a visually captivating environment, you cultivate a space that not only stimulates the senses but also energises and rejuvenates, empowering you to take on the day with renewed vigour.

It’s Time to Make a Conscious Choice

At the end of the day, embracing biophilic design is not a question of why we should bring nature indoors, but rather, why shouldn't we? The remarkable benefits that nature brings to our well-being and productivity are simply too valuable to overlook. Whether you're an office dweller yearning for a nature-infused workspace or a design enthusiast committed to sustainable living, biophilic design offers the key to unlocking a world of endless possibilities.

At Haiken, we wholeheartedly embrace the philosophy that nature should be an integral part of our indoor environments. We believe that bringing nature indoors is not just a luxury but a necessity for creating spaces that enhance well-being, productivity, and creativity. Contact our expert team to explore the endless possibilities of creating a biophilic oasis that nurtures well-being and ignites creativity. Choose Haiken as your partner in designing spaces that celebrate the remarkable benefits of bringing nature indoors.