The power of Biophilia in your office design

In the dynamic landscape of modern workplaces, the design of commercial offices has become more than just a functional necessity—it’s a strategic opportunity to achieve company goals more efficiently. Among the innovative approaches gaining prominence is Biophilic Design, a concept rooted in our innate connection to nature. In this blog post, we’ll explore the why and how behind Biophilic Design and its crucial role in shaping healthier, more productive, and inspiring commercial office spaces.

The Essence of Biophilic Design:

Biophilic Design, simply put, is the integration of natural elements and processes into the built environment. It seeks to create spaces that mimic nature, fostering a sense of well-being and connection among the occupants. The principles of Biophilic Design can be seamlessly applied to commercial offices, bringing a host of benefits that extend beyond aesthetics.

Incorporating natural elements, such as live plants, timber acoustic baffles, wood finishes, natural light are all examples of how you can take inspiration from the world outside and include it in your office design. Not only do the natural hues enhance your space, but they also have beneficial impacts on mental health, wellbeing and the sustainability of your space.

1. Human-Centric Design:

One of the primary reasons Biophilic Design is gaining traction is its focus on the human experience. Commercial offices are no longer just places of work; they are environments where employees spend a significant portion of their lives. By incorporating natural elements like plants, natural light, and water features, Biophilic Design transforms the office into a space that prioritizes the well-being and comfort of its occupants.

2. Stress Reduction and Improved Mental Health:

The corporate world often comes with its fair share of stressors. Biophilic Design, however, acts as a remedy by creating environments that reduce stress and contribute to improved mental health. Exposure to nature has been linked to lower cortisol levels and enhanced mood, creating a workplace where employees feel more relaxed and engaged.

3. Boosting Productivity and Creativity:

A well-designed office can be a catalyst for enhanced productivity. Biophilic elements such as greenery and natural light have been proven to stimulate creativity and focus. This design approach acknowledges the importance of a harmonious work environment that supports employees in their daily tasks, ultimately contributing to increased efficiency.

4. Attraction and Retention of Talent:

In a competitive job market, companies are constantly seeking ways to attract and retain top talent. The incorporation of Biophilic Design sends a powerful message to current and prospective employees—that the company values their well-being and is committed to providing a workspace that enhances their overall experience.

5. Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility:

As the world grapples with environmental challenges, businesses are increasingly adopting sustainable practices. Biophilic Design aligns seamlessly with corporate sustainability goals by encouraging the use of eco-friendly materials and reducing the environmental impact of office spaces. This not only benefits the planet but also enhances the company’s image as a socially responsible organization.

Conclusion:

In the evolution of office design, Biophilic Design emerges as a transformative force, shaping commercial spaces into vibrant, sustainable, and people-centric environments. By prioritizing the connection between humans and nature, businesses can create offices that not only meet the functional needs of their workforce but also contribute to the overall health, happiness, and productivity of employees. In the ever-evolving world of commercial real estate, Biophilic Design stands out as a forward-thinking approach that not only enhances the physical workspace but also enriches the professional lives of those who inhabit it.

The recent project completed for UCAS had a biophilic scheme running throughout, with desks and tables having a wooden finish, a large living wall, and even a woodlands scene on one of the walls in a collaborative space. The design made use of all the natural light to ensure that where possible, the space could utilise this effectively allowing them to see a 55% reduction in lighting energy consumption (LED replacements seeing 2,000 lights reduced from 36w per light to 16w per light = 125,000kWh reduction per year.).

The blend of the use of biophilia, and the agile working approach taken on by UCAS is no doubt a large reason as to why they were recognised and won the IWFM award for workplace experience!

Check out our other work here, and get in touch today about your project!