What is biophlia?

Biophilia is our instinctive human love of nature, and it is behind a growing design movement in workplaces, making employees healthier and more productive.

Do plants promote employee well being?

Absolutely. Research found introducing plants to the workplace lowered tension and anxiety levels 37%, while reducing feelings of anger by 44%. Additionally, fatigue was shown to have been reduced by 38%.

Biophilic additions to the workplace can reduce absenteeism, boost productivity, and improve employee retention.

How many plants are needed for a healthier indoor environment?

Current research suggests one 8” or larger potted plant per 100 sq. feet can provide a healthier indoor environment, by adding oxygen and humidity, and naturally purifying the air. Unlike HVAC air filters which only trap toxins, living plants eliminate air born toxins from the environment, breaking down harmful air pollutants (known as volatile organic compounds or VOC’s) from building materials and office equipment.  Having more than the minimum number of recommended indoor plants has the potential for even greater health benefits.  

Are there other ways to incorporate biophilia indoors?

Biophilic design is founded on having access to elements of the natural world. It can be achieved in numerous ways: skylights, open windows, water features, access or views to the outdoors, and having live plants inside. Using natural materials such as wood and stone, as well as choosing colors like brown, green, and blue can also help us feel connected to nature. If major renovation or redecorating is not in the budget, adding plants is one of the easiest ways to instantly bring nature inside, providing more than just a visual connection for people who work indoors.

Can the addition of plants add to the profitability of a company?

Yes. Increased productivity (12%) and reduction of sick days (60%), are immediate benefits to the bottom line. Plants enhance interiors, creating a soothing, calming environment that attracts talented employees and retains customers. Interiorscaped companies are perceived to be more successful and have higher quality merchandise.  Interiorscape is one of the most cost-effective investments a company can make: The cost of one floor plant and it’s care is $1.34 per workday - less than a cup of coffee - but with an 18 times return on investment!

What purpose do plants serve in interior design?

Plants naturally enhance the built environment. Here are just some of the ways:

• Plants are art in themselves, on a wall or as a focal point.

• Plants add life to impersonal, industrial or dull spaces.

• Planters direct traffic flow or act as natural privacy screens.

• Planters can unify large spaces through the repetition of plant or container color or shape

• Indoor plants, including living walls, can also improve acoustics and decrease background noise in large spaces with open-concept designs.

Does biophilic design have any impact on the growing healthcare industry?

Over 50 published studies confirm healthcare facilities with biophilic design have reduced patient care expenses and staffing costs. Inpatient centers incur 20% less pain reliever use and 8.5% shorter hospital stays for post-surgical patients that have access to biophilic elements. In medical clinics with biophilic design, stress and anxiety decrease, while the overall mood improves—for both patients and staff.

What is the future of biophilic design?

Although a new term in the world of design, Biophilia is quickly becoming the most significant aspect of both home and commercial design. Creating spaces that encourage people to practice self-care, as well as facilitate physical restoration, are the foundation of biophilia’s purpose. With stress, disease and pollution levels rising, the trend of creating indoor spaces with living plants is paramount to people’s overall well-being. Whether in an office or at home, people will seek indoor spaces that reconnect them to the natural world, and the healthful benefits it offers.