Benefits of biophilic design - why is it good for you?

As you’re probably aware by now, biophilic design represents a design philosophy and principles that encourage the use of natural systems and elements of nature such as plants, water and natural lighting, whether for workplace or commercial purposes, such as hospitality or home interiors. 

Although still in its’ pioneering stage, the benefits of biophilic design that are felt in everyday life, in different manners, suggest that this type of design will become widespread, if not for the tactile benefits of it, then for the inner urge we, as a human race, share to reconnect with nature again. 

History has shown us that the more we evolve, the more innate our desire gets, especially if we spend our entire lives in urban areas, making us wish to spend time in spaces that are allowing us to thrive in spaces that incorporate the elements of nature. Given that biophilic design is getting more of a much deserved attention and gaining popularity in the various types of environments, here are some of the greatest benefits of biophilic design.

Biophilic design benefits in the business and commercial sphere 

Since modern world conditions us to spend substantial amount of time in confined environments, any contact with natural elements results in reduced stress and increased productivity.

Thanks to a therapeutic role it has when it comes to calming, uplifting and anxiety reducing, it is no wonder that biophilic design benefits are also of a physical and mental nature. What’s even greater is that thanks to this role, biophilic design provided it is represented in a higher proportion, can positively affect a large portion of the population, whatever their professions might be.  

For instance, water element in confined spaces provides a calming and soothing effect in terms of stress, while natural lighting and ventilation improve overall physical well being. These biophilic design benefits can be even more improved by maximizing the view of the surrounding environment, which provides even greater amount of natural light and ventilation.

We desire comfort, and yet, we need natural elements too. 

We want to appreciate the scenery, enjoy the shades of green, but without going too far. 

Biophilic design does precisely this - it allows us to create a landscape in our exterior space, put a fountain in the lobby, or a green wall in the office and make us relish in natural elements and fresh air.

The physical health benefits of biophilic design

Whether you introduce plants in pots, or as green walls, especially in the office environment, the result will be the ultimate improval of air quality, since vegetation absorbs pollutants, toxins and airborne microbes.

Using plants in biophilic design also proved beneficial in terms of removal harmful volatile organic compounds that are usually found in paint, carpets and furniture of most buildings, especially those who have the symptoms of sick-building syndrome. 

Plants also allow for the water to vapor back in the air, which is especially useful in confined spaces where the air is always dry, not to mention the heightened sensitivity of throat and nose membranes that ultimately lead to higher susceptibility to viruses and allergens. 

Proximity to nature for our mental welfare

Spending too much time in confined spaces, as we already do, tends to wake the feelings of stress and anger, whilst on the other hand, bringing nature into our everyday lives soothes us and makes feel calmer, with also improving our confidence and self esteem. 

It has been proven that proximity of nature, even if it’s just a nice green view outside our window, or just a visual image of it, has a remarkable effect on our way of thinking, helping us to garner a more positive outlook on life. 

Nature evokes happiness. 

Once we incorporate water fountains or wooden furniture in our living or working environments, while also incorporating more subtle natural elements like natural light and gorgeous view - we get an injection of a more cheerful thinking, nourishing the positive perspective and creating a more harmonious workplace ambiance. 

Deeper sense of belonging induced by biophilic design

One of the major benefits of biophilic design when it comes to its’ utilization in work environments is its’ ability to induce the sense of loyalty and belonging, particularly in hub-like workplaces where employees don’t have assigned seating. 

Maintaining and improving the office environment demonstrates that the employer cares about the working conditions of their employees, and by default, cares about their well being too. 

For example, many modern office spaces tend to be sterile, but once you follow up with some of the leading biophilic design principles, and add plants, different furniture and water fountain - you automatically transform it into a space that is more relatable, easier and healthier to spend time in, introducing a more personal dimension.

Productivity and creativity enhancement as a biophilic design benefit

Natural lighting enhances productivity and creativity. 

But how?

This biophilic design element has a surprisingly important role in enhancing employee productivity, in a quite simple way - it boosts the creation of melatonin. Melatonin is important since it regulates people’s sleep-wake cycles, making a noticeable difference in our energy levels, thus resulting as one of the priceless biophilic design benefits - productivity enhancement. 

Workplaces where natural lighting is not a dominant light source, and where it can not be due to various limiting factors, are presented with circadian lighting systems that imitate colour temperature and illumination changes during the day - resulting in the more awake and energized staff. 

Creation of separate open-plan zones is also one of the ways to improve productivity, since such spaces include communal areas that can be used for different purposes - whether for socializing or as quiet spots, where one can work undisturbed. 

Pure business aspect of biophilic design benefits - branding

Biophilic design has proven as a remarkable way in creating a company identity through a visual surrounding - a character that induces certain impression, a feeling that stays with a visitor, client or a potential employee. 

But, what is it exactly? 

What kind of character does biophilic design paint?

The answer is simple - environmental awareness and sustainable approach, all of which induces trust and reinforces the brand character. 

Using biophilic design in order to illustrate the point of your brand or company, you can reference some of your core principles, and at the same time, create a more peaceful and restorative environment that inspires you every day, as soon as you set your foot through the door.

How do all of these biophilic design benefits benefit you?

Whether you’re thinking of incorporating biophilic design in commercial or work environment, these facilities have to be approached as lifetime assets, and not like areas that are in need of constant maintenance. 

The improval of your working area with the introduction of natural elements can be (and should be) regarded as a cost-neutral move that benefits in all of the ways we listed above. Rather than believing that this decision will cost you a fortune, you should perceive it as a long-term investment. 

Biophilic design benefits you mainly in the manner of introducing you ways to strategically plan and decorate your surroundings - ways that will ultimately result in a better physical and mental health, overall boost in creativity and productivity, as well as in the sense of reinforcement of your business using aesthetically pleasing natural elements. 

With the boundaries of work and personal life becoming more and more blurred, and our wellness constantly being shunned, then biophilic design is a way to recuperate it - a way that has just gotten more important, and certainly one we can help you with.