Biophilia: the latest office design trend

Biophilic office design is a concept that has been growing in popularity for many years.

Particularly since the COVID pandemic, the well-being benefits of biophilia have become well documented.

As workers are encouraged to come back to the office, there is more desire to work in environments that replicate the comforts of home, including a connection with the outdoors.

What is biophilic office design?

Essentially, biophilic office design brings the outside in. Although, that doesn’t stop at having plenty of plants and foliage around the office. Biophilic office design is a way of stimulating mindfulness and supporting well-being in a work environment that can often become stressful and demanding.

Not only does biophilia bring plants and greenery into the office, it also:

  • maximises the use of natural light which can have a significant impact on energy levels
  • brings colour into the workplace which studies have shown can improve wellbeing
  • provides views of outdoor spaces
  • uses natural materials such as stone and wood to replicate the outdoor environment.
  • makes use of outdoor spaces, seamlessly making them part of the workplace, perhaps with seating and social areas

Why adopt a biophilia office design for your business?

Biophilia office design helps businesses by nurturing well-being in the workplace. This improves productivity, physical and mental health, creativity and collaboration – which all boost staff morale.

According to researchers Bre, “The scientific evidence for the positive influence of biophilic design, on the health and well-being of building occupants is substantial and growing. In an office environment, this is shown as quantified improvements in productivity, wellness, and a reduction in days absent due to illness”.

Our biophilic office design projects

EDB are office fit out specialists with extensive experience in biophilic office design and have completed many projects of this design. Here are some examples:

Chancerygate, Warrington

Commercial property developers at Chancerygate wanted to improve the working environment for their teams.

We built a room divider with 13 planters and installed standing plants and ferns, hanging plants and pots throughout the office space and meeting rooms.

Meridian, Manchester

The office refurbishment for recruitment company Meridian was to transform the clinical offices into a vibrant open-plan space.

Meridian was particularly keen on the biophilic elements of our designs and opted for shelving and tables with potted plants, oversized planters, and greenery across all rooms. By converting the space into an open-plan layout, more natural light was brought into the building.

ECO Surv

Software company ECO Surv wanted an office that would inspire creativity. We designed storage units interspersed with plants to create different zones, and installed standing plants and potted plants in all workspaces and meeting rooms.

FAQs

What kind of plants are best for an office?

We’d suggest having a range of different plants that are as low maintenance as possible. With our top picks being bamboo as it will stay green and not outgrow your desk space. For a larger plant, why not opt for a Monstera? They can make a statement in the office, grow in very little light, and do not need much watering.

How do I maximise natural light in my office?

It’s not just about windows! Your layout needs to make the most of the light that streams in. We’d be happy to conduct a site visit and offer bespoke advice on this.

Can you do Cat A fit outs?

Yes, we do Cat A, Cat B, and dilapidations.

Find out more about how EDB can help with your next project by getting in touch with our team.

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