the health benefits of plants in biophilic interiors - bring the natural world indoors
Introduction to using plants in biophilic design
Whether used in commercial biophilic interiors, such as offices, hotels and gyms, or as part of residential biophilic design, plants add personality to any space and come with an array of health and wellness benefits to supercharge any interior with Vitamin Nature.
More than that though, they connect human beings with our evolutionary history by reintroducing living systems and plant life into what can be soulless, polluted urban contexts in some unfortunate locations.
Read on to learn how..
what is the biophilia hypothesis and how can it help interior designers to create healthy indoor spaces?
The biophilia hypothesis, developed by biologist Edward O. Wilson in the 1980s, suggests that humans have an innate and instinctive connection to nature and other living organisms.
It posits that our well-being, physical health, and mental health are intricately linked to our interaction with the natural world.
This hypothesis has significant implications for interior designers striving to create healthy indoor spaces:
Incorporate Natural Elements:
Interior designers can incorporate natural elements such as wood, stone, water features, and indoor plants into their designs. These elements evoke a sense of nature and help create a more inviting and calming environment.
Maximize Natural Light:
Designers should prioritize maximizing natural light in indoor spaces. Large windows, skylights, and strategically placed mirrors can help bring more natural light into the interior, enhancing the connection to the outdoors.
Use Biophilic Patterns:
Biophilic design includes patterns, shapes, and textures that mimic those found in nature, such as fractals and organic forms. These patterns can be incorporated into interior finishes, fabrics, and furnishings.
Create Views of Nature:
Designers can strategically position seating and workspaces to offer views of nature, whether it's through windows overlooking greenery, water features, or natural landscapes.
Integrate Indoor Plants:
Incorporating indoor plants, living walls, or green roofs can help bring nature indoors. These not only improve air quality but also enhance the overall aesthetic and well-being of occupants.
Provide Opportunities for Interaction:
Interior spaces can be designed to encourage interaction with nature, such as creating outdoor seating areas, rooftop gardens, or indoor atriums where people can relax and connect with the natural environment.
Use Natural Colors:
Choosing color palettes inspired by nature, such as earth tones, greens, and blues, can contribute to a calming and biophilic interior atmosphere.
Consider Natural Materials:
Selecting building materials and finishes made from natural, sustainable sources, like reclaimed wood and stone, aligns with the biophilic design principle and creates a tactile connection to nature.
Provide Water Features:
The sound and sight of water, whether through indoor fountains or aquariums, can be soothing and evoke a sense of connection to natural environments.
Create Multi-Sensory Experiences:
Biophilic design can engage multiple senses, including touch, smell, and sound. Incorporating elements like textured materials, natural scents, and ambient nature sounds can enhance the overall experience.
Leveraging the biophilia hypothesis in interior design not only creates healthier and more aesthetically pleasing spaces but also contributes to improved mental well-being, reduced stress, increased productivity, and a stronger connection to the environment.
It aligns with the growing interest in designing spaces that prioritize occupant mental health issues, and comfort in a sustainable and holistic manner.
Can Ikigai, Barcelona - biophilic interiors by Biofilico
Biophilia plants in interior spaces
Plants play a central and integral role in biophilic design, a design philosophy that seeks to connect people with nature in the built environment.
Biophilic design recognizes the innate human connection to nature and incorporates natural elements, including plants, into interior and architectural spaces.
Here's how plants contribute to biophilic design:
Strengthening the Connection to Nature:
Biophilic design aims to create spaces that evoke a sense of nature and bring the outdoors indoors. Plants, whether through potted greenery, living walls, or indoor gardens, serve as a direct link to the natural world, enhancing this connection.
Enhancing Visual and Aesthetic Appeal:
Plants add beauty and visual interest to interior spaces. Their various shapes, colors, and textures create a visually stimulating environment that can reduce stress and enhance overall aesthetics.
Improving Air Quality:
Many indoor plants purify the air by removing common pollutants. Incorporating air-purifying plants into biophilic design not only enhances the visual appeal but also contributes to a healthier indoor environment.
Promoting Well-Being:
The presence of plants has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and increase feelings of well-being. Biophilic design leverages these psychological benefits by strategically placing plants in areas where people spend time, such as offices, homes, and healthcare facilities.
Supporting Biophilic Patterns:
Biophilic design principles often incorporate elements like fractal patterns, which are found in nature and can be mirrored in plant arrangements. These patterns have been associated with relaxation and reduced stress.
Enhancing Acoustic Comfort:
Some larger plants can help absorb sound, reducing noise levels in interior spaces and contributing to acoustic comfort.
Providing Opportunities for Interaction:
Biophilic design encourages interaction with nature. Indoor gardens and living walls offer opportunities for people to engage with plants, whether through caring for them or simply enjoying their presence.
Creating Restorative Environments:
Natural settings, including plant-filled spaces, have a restorative effect on mental fatigue and cognitive function. Biophilic design incorporates plants to help occupants relax and recharge.
Adapting to Seasonal Changes:
Biophilic design can incorporate seasonal variations in plant selection, allowing occupants to experience different aspects of nature throughout the year, which adds interest and variety to the environment.
Supporting Sustainable Practices:
Biophilic design often aligns with sustainability goals by promoting the use of indoor plants that require minimal water and maintenance. This reinforces the connection between human well-being and environmental stewardship.
Plants in biophilic design are not merely decorative elements but essential components that foster a stronger connection to nature, enhance well-being, and contribute to a more sustainable and visually appealing built environment.
They create spaces that promote physical and psychological health while aligning with our innate affinity for the natural world.
what scientific research exists showing the health benefits of plants indoors?
Scientific research has consistently demonstrated the positive impact of plants on health in interior spaces. Numerous studies have explored the physical and psychological benefits of indoor plants, and the following is a summary of key findings:
Air Quality Improvement:
In 1989, the NASA Clean Air Study found that the power of plants went far beyond absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen; many can also filter harmful chemicals from the air, such as benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene—all commonly found in everyday objects that surround us all the time in cities such as furniture and building material.
Stress Reduction and Well-Being:
Research published in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology found that interaction with indoor plants can reduce physiological and psychological stress responses.
A study in the Journal of Environmental Psychology showed that the presence of indoor plants can improve overall well-being, including feelings of comfort and relaxation.
Enhanced Cognitive Function:
Studies conducted at the University of Exeter found that introducing indoor plants in office environments led to a 15% increase in productivity and improved cognitive function.
Research published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that the introduction of indoor plants in a workspace can increase creativity and problem-solving abilities.
Mood Enhancement:
A study in the Journal of Environmental Psychology reported that indoor plants positively influenced mood, with participants feeling happier and more comfortable in plant-filled spaces.
Reduced Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) Symptoms:
Research conducted by the Agricultural University of Norway showed that the introduction of indoor plants reduced symptoms associated with SBS, such as dry throat, dry skin, and fatigue.
Faster Recovery and Reduced Pain:
The American Society of Horticultural Science published a study indicating that patients recovering from surgery in rooms with indoor plants required less pain medication and had shorter hospital stays.
Improved Humidity and Comfort:
Studies have shown that indoor plants release moisture through transpiration, which can help increase humidity levels, improving respiratory comfort and reducing the incidence of conditions like dry skin and sore throats.
Noise Reduction:
Research in the journal HortScience demonstrated that large, leafy indoor plants can help absorb and diffuse sound, reducing noise levels in interior spaces.
Positive Biophilic Effects:
The concept of biophilia suggests that humans have an innate connection to nature. Studies have consistently shown that the presence of indoor plants can strengthen this connection, leading to reduced stress and increased feelings of well-being.
These studies collectively provide strong scientific evidence for the positive impact of indoor plants on health, well-being, and indoor environmental quality. Incorporating plants into interior spaces is a practical and effective way to create healthier and more comfortable living and working environments.
what are the Mental Health Benefits of plants in interior spaces:
Stress Reduction: Interacting with indoor plants can help reduce stress and anxiety. The act of caring for plants, such as watering and pruning, can be meditative and calming.
Improved Mood: Indoor plants have been shown to boost mood and promote a sense of well-being. Their presence can create a more pleasant and positive atmosphere.
Enhanced Creativity: Some studies suggest that the presence of indoor plants can stimulate creativity and problem-solving abilities, making them valuable in workspaces and creative environments.
Increased Productivity: Indoor plants in workplaces have been associated with increased productivity and concentration. They can help reduce mental fatigue and improve focus.
Improved Air Quality: Better air quality resulting from the oxygen production and air filtration capabilities of plants can lead to improved mental clarity and alertness.
what are the Physical Health Benefits of plants in interior spaces?
Air Purification: Many indoor plants have the ability to remove pollutants and toxins from the air, such as formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene, contributing to improved indoor air quality.
Humidity Regulation: Plants release water vapor through a process called transpiration, which can help increase humidity levels in indoor spaces. This is particularly beneficial in dry environments and can help alleviate issues like dry skin and respiratory discomfort.
Noise Reduction: Some large, leafy plants can absorb sound, reducing noise levels in interior spaces. This can create a more peaceful and comfortable environment.
Faster Healing: Studies have suggested that the presence of indoor plants can accelerate the healing process for individuals recovering from illness or surgery. Patients with access to greenery tend to require less pain medication and experience shorter hospital stays.
Eye Comfort: The presence of indoor plants can help reduce eye strain and discomfort associated with prolonged screen time by providing a soothing natural element to focus on.
Biophilia Benefits: Biophilia, the innate human connection to nature, is nurtured by the presence of indoor plants. This connection can lead to reduced stress and an overall sense of well-being.
It's important to note that while indoor plants offer these benefits, they also require proper care and maintenance. Overwatering or neglect can lead to issues like mold growth and poor air circulation, which can have negative health consequences.
Therefore, it's essential to choose plants that match your level of commitment and care for them accordingly to maximize the physical and mental health advantages they offer in indoor spaces.
Natural daylight and indoor plants
The amount of light required for indoor plants varies depending on the type of plant. Different plant species have different light requirements, which are typically categorized into three main categories:
High Light: These plants require direct or bright indirect sunlight for several hours each day. Examples include succulents, cacti, and many flowering plants.
Medium Light: These plants thrive in indirect sunlight or in areas with filtered or dappled light. They can typically tolerate lower light conditions than high-light plants. Examples include pothos, spider plants, and peace lilies.
Low Light: These plants can thrive in areas with minimal daylight, such as rooms with small or shaded windows. They can adapt to artificial lighting. Examples include snake plants, ZZ plants, and cast iron plants.
For interior designers looking to maximize available natural light and supplement with artificial light for plants, here are some strategies:
Maximizing Natural Light:
Use Reflective Surfaces: Incorporate light-colored and reflective surfaces, such as mirrors and light-colored paint or furnishings, to bounce natural light deeper into interior spaces.
Optimize Window Placement: Position furniture and shelving to allow natural light to reach as many plants as possible. Avoid blocking windows with large obstructions.
Choose Light-Friendly Window Treatments: Select window treatments like sheer curtains or blinds that allow natural light to filter through while maintaining privacy and controlling glare.
Keep Windows Clean: Regularly clean windows to ensure maximum light transmission.
Consider Skylights: If feasible, incorporate skylights or light tubes to bring natural light into interior spaces where windows are limited.
Supplemental Artificial Lighting to support bringing the natural world inside:
LED Grow Lights: LED grow lights are energy-efficient and come in various spectra to cater to different plant needs. You can use these lights in areas with insufficient natural light or as a supplement to extend the daily light duration for plants.
Position Lights Strategically: Place grow lights above or beside plants to mimic natural sunlight. Adjustable fixtures allow you to fine-tune the light intensity and direction.
Use Timers: Install timers or smart plugs to automate the lighting schedule for your plants, ensuring they receive the right amount of light each day.
Choose Full-Spectrum Lights: Full-spectrum LED grow lights closely mimic natural sunlight and provide a balanced spectrum for photosynthesis.
Consider Light Reflectors: Reflective materials around plants can help maximize the use of artificial light by directing it back towards the plants.
Adjust Light Duration: The duration of artificial lighting should match the specific needs of your plants. Most indoor plants require 12-16 hours of light per day.
By combining these strategies and selecting plants from the natural world that match the available light conditions, interior designers can create indoor environments that support healthy and thriving greenery while also enhancing the overall aesthetic and functionality of the space.
choosing the right plants for your biophilic interior
When choosing plant species to use in your next eco office interior or biophilic home, there are a few things you should consider to ensure your plant plan is sustainable and practical; let's face it, nobody benefits from dead foliage!
Here are three questions to consider:
What kind of light is available? Low light doesn't necessarily present a problem, but it does mean that you need to choose plants that can thrive in dimmer conditions, such as Spider plants and Pothos plants.
How much time can you commit to maintenance? A good biophilic design should enhance your life, not disrupt it. Plants that require less watering, like Snake plants and Aloe, tend to be hardier and won't put a damper on your schedule.
Which plants like or dislike each other? Placing your plants beside the wrong neighbours can be the difference between thriving greenery and stunted stems. Make sure you know who likes who to bring out the best from your sprouts.
Indoor air purifying plants to know
Indoor air-purifying plants are a natural and aesthetically pleasing way to improve indoor air quality by removing certain pollutants and toxins. Here are some of the top air-purifying plants suitable for indoor use:
Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata): Snake plants are known for their air-purifying abilities. They are effective at removing formaldehyde, benzene, and other common indoor pollutants. They are also low-maintenance and can thrive in low light conditions.
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum): Spider plants are great at removing pollutants like formaldehyde and xylene. They are easy to care for and can adapt to a variety of indoor environments.
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum): Peace lilies are excellent at removing indoor air pollutants, including ammonia, benzene, and formaldehyde. They also add a touch of elegance to indoor spaces.
Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata): Boston ferns are effective at removing pollutants like formaldehyde and xylene. They require regular moisture and indirect light to thrive.
Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller): Aloe vera not only purifies the air by removing formaldehyde and benzene but also has healing properties for minor burns and skin irritations.
Dracaena (Dracaena spp.): Dracaenas come in various varieties and are known for their air-purifying capabilities. They can help remove pollutants like xylene, trichloroethylene, and formaldehyde.
Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii): Bamboo palms are effective at removing indoor air pollutants, including formaldehyde and benzene. They also thrive in low light conditions.
Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica): Rubber plants are good at removing indoor air pollutants such as formaldehyde. They have attractive dark green leaves and can grow into a statement piece in your space.
Gerbera Daisy (Gerbera jamesonii): Gerbera daisies are known for their ability to remove trichloroethylene, a common indoor pollutant. They also add vibrant color to your indoor environment.
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum): Pothos is a hardy plant that can help remove indoor pollutants like formaldehyde and benzene. It's a great choice for beginners due to its low maintenance requirements.
Remember that while these plants can help improve indoor air quality, they should not be relied upon as the sole method of air purification in environments with high levels of pollution. Proper ventilation and other air quality measures may also be necessary for more effective results.
What are the best case studies showing the benefits of indoor plants in creating a healthy workplace?
While there are numerous case studies and research findings that demonstrate how indoor plants contribute to creating a healthy office environment, a few notable examples are frequently cited to illustrate the positive impact of plants on workplace well-being. Here are some of the most commonly referenced case studies:
NASA Clean Air Study: While not specifically an office environment, this seminal study conducted by NASA in the late 1980s identified a range of houseplants that effectively remove indoor air pollutants. It laid the foundation for the use of indoor plants to improve air quality in various settings, including offices.
Texas A&M University Study (2010): Researchers at Texas A&M University conducted a study that examined the effects of indoor plants on employee well-being and productivity in a controlled office environment. The findings indicated that the presence of plants led to a significant increase in productivity and reduced stress levels among employees.
Ambius "The Power of Plants in the Workplace" (2014): Ambius, a leading provider of interior landscaping services, conducted a comprehensive study that surveyed over 7,600 office workers across 16 countries. The research found that office plants had a positive impact on air quality, reduced stress, and improved overall well-being and productivity.
University of Exeter Study (2014): Researchers at the University of Exeter in the United Kingdom conducted a study that investigated the effects of office plants on worker productivity. They found that introducing plants into the office environment led to a 15% increase in productivity.
The WELL Building Standard Case Studies: The WELL Building Standard, a performance-based system for measuring and certifying building features that impact health and well-being, includes numerous case studies that highlight the benefits of incorporating plants into office designs. These case studies showcase how plants contribute to improved air quality, reduced stress, and enhanced employee satisfaction in various workplaces.
IKEA's "The Green Cube" (2016): IKEA created a temporary office space in Milan, Italy, known as "The Green Cube." The office was filled with indoor plants and was designed to demonstrate the positive effects of greenery on employee well-being and productivity. The project received significant attention and serves as a practical example of biophilic design in the workplace.
These case studies, among others, provide valuable evidence of the positive impact of indoor plants on air quality, employee health, and workplace productivity.
They demonstrate the potential benefits of incorporating greenery into office environments and offer practical insights for interior designers and employers seeking to create healthier and more productive workspaces.
What are the best case studies showing the health benefits of indoor plants in creating a healthy home?
University of Technology Sydney Study (2015): Researchers at the University of Technology Sydney conducted a study that investigated the impact of indoor plants on indoor air quality and well-being in residential settings. The results showed that indoor plants can effectively reduce pollutants and improve perceived air quality.
University of Reading and Royal Horticultural Society Study (2015): This research examined the impact of indoor plants on well-being and air quality in homes. The study found that houseplants can remove significant levels of indoor air pollutants and contribute to a sense of well-being and happiness among residents.
RMIT University Study (2016): Researchers at RMIT University in Australia conducted a study on the benefits of indoor plants in residential environments. The findings suggested that indoor plants can improve air quality, reduce stress, and enhance cognitive function in homes.
Ambius "Global Impact of Biophilic Design in the Home" (2016): This study conducted by Ambius, a provider of interior landscaping services, explored the impact of biophilic design elements, including indoor plants, in residential settings. It found that plants contribute to improved air quality and overall well-being in homes.
Bayer Environmental Science Study (2020): Bayer's "Global Green Spaces" research initiative examined the role of green spaces, including indoor plants, in urban environments. The study emphasized the importance of indoor plants in enhancing air quality and well-being within homes.
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