The Biophilic workplace - What Is It & How Can It Improve Your Office?

A new eco-friendly trend has been hitting workplaces across the globe, and it could mean seriously good news for your health too. More and more offices are exploring the idea of transforming their dreary office into green wonderlands. This is where the concept of a biophilic workplace comes in. The premise is to incorporate pa large amount of greenery into your work space, allowing employees to connect with nature, proven to reduce stress and increase productivity.

A report from Human Spaces speaking about biophilic design stated, “As work psychologists we have an enduring interest in both the individual and environmental factors that influence business outcomes. In particular, the interaction between an individual and their work environment can be a crucial determinant of both an employee’s success and happiness in his or her role." The study goes on to say talk "the proven links between work environments exhibiting biophilic design and lower staff turnover and sickness absence rates", such as workplace satisfaction and reduced anxiety.

Toxins in Furnishings

Including plants within your workplace not only helps to make the area look attractive, it can also keep you from harm caused by some unlikely culprits. “All of the materials we use, whether for furniture, carpets, clothing, these all contain toxins that are released through various ways," Chris Garvin, founder of architectural consulting firm Terrapin explains. It has been proven that plants are able to clean the air of pollutants released by furnishings and other miscellaneous items, aiding in keeping the air we breathe clear.

Plants release 'healthy' germs

He goes on to say, “When we share workspace and amenities with other people, we also share bacteria. The idea behind the microbiome approach is to find ways to get healthier and not sicker while in the workplace. This means looking carefully at the materials and products used for construction, design, and management. It also means incorporating plants and soils that have ‘healthy’ germs in them that can help improve the health of people from a microbiome perspective.”

Read more about this fascinating idea here