How biophilic design at work can increase productivity
Add nature to your office space and it won’t just be the plants that grow …
Text: Sam Y
Singapore may be known as a Garden City, but how many of us can actually say that we work in a green, pleasant and positively outdoorsy workplace, too? Many of us are faced with drab walls and unflattering lighting when we make it into office, and simply see it as a space to get our job done. But adding natural biophilic elements to your workplace can do more than just create a cosy and welcoming corner. Indeed, a recent study published early this year found that the introduction of potted plants in individual offices elicited improvements in perceived attention, creativity and productivity among workers.
In 2019, a report by the Global Wellness Summit unveiled that biophilic design — a design philosophy that incorporates natural elements, systems and processes in built environments — can actually purify air, reduce stress and foster connections to the natural world. “This design philosophy is built on the biophilia hypothesis that humans have innate connections with nature, and thus exposure to nature can bring about positive effects on human health and wellbeing,” says Samuel Chng an applied social and environmental psychologist at the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD).
Just as our culture, country and beliefs affect and shape us on the daily, office workers who spend the majority of their waking hours in the workplace are naturally affected by the environment they’re in.
“In two established theories in Environmental Psychology, the Attention Restoration Theory and the Stress Recovery Theory, biophilic elements and design in the workplace help induce restful brain activity, restore attention, improve concentration and reduce mental fatigue and stress –– all of which are key to being productive,” Samuel says.
This is particularly the case for individuals with an innate desire for contact with the great outdoors. “Those who are open to these experiences may find nature particularly appealing, while introverted individuals may find it more restorative,” he adds.
Credit: @byhudsonmccarthy
Samuel cites The Spheres in downtown Seattle as one of his favourite examples of biophilic design. Developed by Amazon, The Spheres provides workers with a direct link to nature, boasting more than 40,000 plants from the cloud forest regions of over 30 countries. Here, individuals can think and work whilst surrounded by greenery –– the ultimate wellness and productivity boost.
So, how can organisations incorporate biophilia in the workplace? Samuel recommends adding potted indoor plants that provide a visual connection with nature, installing plants as features akin to living green walls, or displaying visual art and water fountains that bring the sounds of nature into your office (think the soothing sounds of a trickling creek).
If you’re designing an office from scratch, use wood and stone within the landscape (nature is not just about views, but also texture), and consider using earthy tones like greens, browns, blues, whites, and gold. Natural patterned wallpaper is a winner, although it’s best to avoid geometric patterns as these are man-made. Also, make sure there is plenty of natural light to reduce stress and fatigue. Daylight changes from yellow to blue to red throughout the day, and the body’s circadian rhythm uses these transitions to create the right balance of serotonin and melatonin in the body.
Lastly, don’t forget about smell. Given that scents trigger powerful memories, using natural fragrances in the workplace can induce the feeling of being outside. Natural ventilation and adequate breezeways ensure that employees can enjoy the smell of Singapore’s tropical storms, but for fragrance that impacts performance essential oils and diffusers are the way to go. Try lavender for improved concentration, citrus for reduced stress, and peppermint for alertness and mental performance.
Thinking of getting started? Check out the best and sturdiest indoor plants that you can get in Singapore here.
