What is Biophilic Design? Biophilic design is an architectural and interior design concept that seeks to improve well-being by incorporating elements of nature into the environment. The term “biophilia” itself refers to the inherent human affinity for nature, suggesting that people thrive when they are connected to the natural world. Incorporating biophilic elements can range from large, structural features—like living walls and natural light—to smaller details such as natural materials and colours that evoke the feeling of being outdoors. The essence of biophilic design lies in creating environments that promote health, happiness, and productivity through a deeper connection to nature. What are the Benefits of Biophilic Interior Design? The benefits of biophilic interior design are extensive and impact both employees and organisations. Some of the key advantages include: 1. Enhanced Well-Being: Exposure to natural elements can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve mood, contributing to overall health and well-being. 2. Increased Productivity: Numerous studies indicate that employees who work in biophilic environments report higher levels of creativity and productivity. 3. Improved Air Quality: Incorporating plants and natural ventilation systems can enhance air quality, reducing sick days and improving health. 4. Greater Employee Satisfaction: Workspaces designed with biophilic elements can lead to increased employee satisfaction, reducing turnover and enhancing loyalty. 5. Connection to Nature: Regular exposure to nature helps to cultivate a sense of belonging and connectedness, which is particularly important in urban settings. How to Create a Biophilic Office Design Creating a biophilic office design involves thoughtful planning and execution. It’s often a collaboration between office interior designers, space planners, facilities managers, architects and construction companies to bring out the best biophilic office that is still functional and long-lasting. However, with an office refurbishment, some biophilic design principles may not be achievable within the scope of the building – though even small biophilic influences can make a huge difference. Here are some strategies to help you integrate biophilic principles into your workspace: 1. Maximise Natural Light: Use large windows, skylights, and open layouts to enhance natural light and a feeling of space. Position workspaces near windows to allow employees to enjoy views of nature – an office space planner can lay out the space to maximise light whilst reducing glare. 2. Incorporate Natural Elements: Use plants throughout the office, this can be anything from a standalone office planter, living walls, courtyard gardens, or full indoor gardens. Utilising natural materials like wood, and natural wool or plant-based fabrics can enhance natural textures. Also, consider leaning towards furniture with natural forms and curves that reflect nature – teamed up with the right colour or fabric can create a welcoming environment. 3. Art & Colour: Use a colour palette inspired by nature, such as greens, blues, and earthy tones, teamed up with nature or landscape artwork to enhance the connection. See our colour guide for inspiring natural moodboards. 4. Offer Outdoor Spaces: What could be better for biophilic design than actually being outside? Office gardens are becoming increasingly popular, giving staff access to well-designed outdoor spaces throughout the day, whether in a ground floor area, rooftop garden or terrace. More than just a patio – these outdoor gardens feature naturalistic planting schemes, breakout furniture, outdoor pods and commercial outdoor meeting furniture suitable for the British climate. Fresh air and natural light are key to enhancing health and wellbeing, with access to natural light being imperative in winter when workers often commute in darkness. For those with Seasonal Affective Disorder, which affects up to 1.6 million people in the UK, access to natural sunlight throughout the day can be a game changer. Find out more about outdoor office spaces here. 5. Space Planning: Interior designers, space planners and office furniture specifiers can create thoughtful and considered approaches to biophilic interior design. The right furniture in a suitable setting can enhance the effectiveness of the space, for example, a focus zone with high-back private armchairs and laptop tables overlooking a large window of trees and rivers can help calm the mind, focus and aid productivity. Team up biophilic design with other well-being-led design theories, like office acoustics and ergonomic furniture to get the best workspace. Examples of Biophilic Office Designs Several companies around the world from Google to Amazon have embraced biophilic office design, transforming their workspaces into inviting environments that foster creativity and well-being. Whether you are a global corporation or small business, it’s easy to add biophilic design on all scales, here are some examples: Natural Murals, Colours & Textures Use of Wood & Natural Forms Living Walls Office Planters soften functional office furniture Window graphics, sculpted acoustic dividers & natural colours Embracing biophilic design in the office is more than just a trend; it’s a holistic approach to creating workspaces that prioritise employee well-being and productivity. By understanding the principles of biophilic interior design, recognising its benefits, and implementing thoughtful strategies, organisations can transform their offices into environments that inspire and foster a healthier, more productive workforce. — About Flexiform Workplace Furniture Flexiform is a UK office designer, office furniture manufacturer and office fit out specialist. We offer a tailored service from a simple supply of workplace furniture such as office planters, to space planning and interior design schemes.
