Commercial offices: 2/10: How to create a Biophilic workspace
Hello and welcome to my Healthy Interior Design series of blogs for Commercial Offices.
This week’s blog explores how nature can shape our work environments for the better. Biophilic design isn’t just about adding a few houseplants to your office—it’s about creating spaces that connect us to nature, improving well-being, and boosting productivity. Whether you're redesigning a corporate workspace or refreshing your home office, this blog will help you bring the outside in.
FUNCTIONALITY
A well-designed workspace is more than just aesthetically pleasing; it should actively support health, focus, and efficiency. Biophilic design integrates natural elements into everyday working environments, from maximising natural light to incorporating materials that mimic nature.
“Biophilic design is not just a trend, it is a critical strategy.” Vanessa Champion, editor of the Journal of Biophilic Design
Think about your workspace and the key touchpoints within your business. Do you have access to natural light? If not, consider full-spectrum lighting that mimics daylight. Can you rejig your space to accommodate an incidental meeting area and a quiet zone? Could your office benefit from natural textures like wood, stone, or planting? Even small adjustments—like a strategically placed plant or a desk in front of a window —can enhance focus and reduce stress.
WELLBEING & PRODUCTIVITY
The connection between nature and well-being is well-documented. Studies show that workplaces with biophilic elements report lower stress levels whilst increasing productivity and higher employee satisfaction. Did you know that 15.5% of the UK population identify as being neurodiverse? Traditional work set ups have focused on neurotypical behaviours and needs but as the number of people that identify as neurodiverse is on the rise, it is a smart (& ethical!) strategy to consider how to incorporate their sensory needs into the workplace too.
A post-occupancy evaluation of the office refurb of Knight Frank estate agent’s HQ showed individual productivity rose by 13% and meeting productivity increased by 21%. The refurb consisted of creating unique spaces to accommodate different types of work and meeting requirements - such as quiet glass pods for private meetings, comfortable booths for lunch, bar style seating for ad-hoc laptop work as well as showers and lockers for those who frequent the gym or cycle to work. The use of bright pops of mustard yellow throughout gives a rush of dopamine whilst the open brickwork walls and oversized planting gives a feeling of being outside. General overall wellbeing increased by 31%.
Key biophilic design features include:
Indoor plants: They improve air quality and bring a sense of calm.
Living walls: A stunning focal point that promotes relaxation and creativity.
Water features: The sound of running water can help reduce noise pollution and create a tranquil atmosphere.
Materials: natural textures such as wood, brick, bamboo, and organic textiles help create a grounding, soothing environment.
Natural shapes and flow: spacial planning that allows the right flow of traffic between areas is vital to retain a calm environment - curved corridors and furniture lend themselves to a more organic feel when moving about an office.
Light: natural and artificial both play a huge role in creating the right feeling in each space
Acoustics: using baffle panels on the ceiling, acoustic floor dividers and soft floor panels will help create a calm place in which to work
Colour: plays a huge part in how we respond to areas - did you know that fast food restaurants use red so as to make us eat quickly and leave? For a more calming experience use blues, greys and greens. For a dopamine hit of colour in spaces where people are on the move, try pops of yellow, orange, pink or turquoise.
STORAGE & DECLUTTERING
A biophilic workspace is also about reducing visual clutter. A well-organised, clean space fosters clarity and calmness. Use natural storage solutions like woven baskets, wooden shelving, or minimalist furniture with hidden compartments.
Consider open shelving with neatly arranged plants, books, and earthy decor. Keep work essentials tucked away to maintain a streamlined, peaceful space. The goal is to create an environment that feels open, airy, and free from distractions.
THE FUTURE OF BIOPHILIC DESIGN IN WORKSPACES
As we continue to prioritise well-being in the workplace, biophilic design is becoming more than just a trend—it’s a necessity. Offices are evolving into wellness-focused environments that support mental and physical health.
If you’re looking to create a workspace that enhances focus, reduces stress, and connects you to nature, biophilic design is the way forward. I
f you’d like help, give me a call and let me design the perfect workspace for you.
Stay tuned for next week’s blog, where I’ll dive into Acoustics in the Workplace.