Fitwel Certification: A Guide to Boosting Workplace Wellness for a Healthier future

Healthy building certification fitwel accreditation

In the evolving landscape of modern workplaces, there is growing recognition of the role that building design plays in supporting the health and well-being of occupants.

Fitwel, a third-party building certification system, has emerged as a leading standard for assessing and improving health in the built environment.

At Biofilico, as Healthy Building Consultants certified in Fitwel, we aim to shed light on how this certification can make a transformative impact in workplaces.

We have used this tool with our FMCG client Bolton Group in Italy for example, as a way to structure their workplace wellness playbook.

What is Fitwel Certification and the healthy building movement?

Fitwel certification was developed by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in collaboration with the General Services Administration (GSA) with the goal of improving the holistic health of building occupants.

It is a third-party verification system that rates spaces across 12 categories, including the indoor environment, physical activity promotion, emergency preparedness, social spaces, and more.

Promoting building health through design and operations

The main focus of Fitwel is to promote health and well-being through impactful design, operational policies, and workplace culture enhancements.

By improving the quality of the spaces in which people spend most of their time, Fitwel certification aims to create healthier, happier, and more productive environments for building users.

Benefits and Process of Fitwel accreditation for real estate assets

Achieving Fitwel offers numerous benefits to organizations and building owners, demonstrating a tangible commitment to occupant health and well-being.

It provides a clear, structured pathway to elevate building performance through straightforward and actionable design, policy, and operational strategies.

Here are some key advantages and how the process works:

1. Enhanced Occupant Well-being: By implementing strategies to improve air quality, increase access to natural light, promote physical activity, and more, organizations create an environment that supports the physical and mental well-being of their employees.

2. Straightforward Certification Process: it provides a flexible framework for improving buildings, making it easy for developers, facility managers, and architects to pursue certification. Fitwel’s flexible scorecards provide clear goals to improve health outcomes, empowering designers to creatively implement these strategies in ways that best suit a building’s unique needs.

3. Strategic Prioritization of Health: it places well-being as a key strategic priority for organizations. By focusing on areas such as workplace ergonomics, physical activity, community support, and emergency preparedness, companies can address the broad spectrum of factors that influence occupant health.

Fitwel Cert Levels

The system is structured into three levels, with scores assigned based on a building's incorporation of health-promoting strategies across various categories:

• 1 Star (90-104 points): This level verifies foundational policies, programs, and design considerations that are in place to encourage positive health behaviors and outcomes.

• 2 Stars (105-124 points): This level reflects an enhanced commitment to active design and workplace wellness, indicating moderate but impactful health strategies.

• 3 Stars (125-144 points): Achieving three stars denotes a sector leader in health, showcasing a comprehensive integration of physical, mental, and social well-being strategies throughout the building.

This tiered system allows organizations to achieve different levels of recognition, depending on their efforts to improve workplace wellness and the number of points accumulated.

Building Design and Fitwel for building health and wellbeing

The Fitwel system encourages a wide range of design interventions to foster health and wellness. A building’s design plays a critical role in enhancing the physical, mental, and social well-being of its occupants. Several key design considerations evaluated during Fitwel certification include:

• Stairwell Design and Accessibility: Promoting physical activity is a key component of Fitwel. Thoughtfully designed stairwells that are easily accessible and aesthetically pleasing can encourage employees to choose stairs over elevators, supporting daily exercise goals.

• Outdoor Spaces: Access to outdoor spaces or gardens can enhance employee well-being, provide a change of scenery, and foster a stronger connection to nature, reducing stress levels and improving mood.

• Indoor Environment: Air and water quality are evaluated as part of the certification. Ensuring clean air and providing access to filtered water are key aspects of supporting occupant health.

• Food and Amenities: The availability of healthy food options in prepared food areas, nutritious snacks in vending machines, contributes to a more holistic human health strategy and is one of many recognized healthy building practices.

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Fitwel Certification

Fitwel certification is not only an effective means of improving the human health of occupants but also has substantial benefits for businesses in terms of employee performance and retention.

Studies have shown that work environments that support health and wellbeing help reduce absenteeism, boost productivity, and increase overall employee satisfaction.

Fitwel also guides organizations in identifying areas for improvement and assists in developing targeted strategies to address these challenges, fostering a more vibrant, engaged, and motivated workforce.

From a real estate perspective, this is a valuable asset that enhances building value, perhaps not on the same level as a LEED or BREEAM Green Building certification, or indeed WELL certification but valuable nonetheless.

Comparison to Other Certification Systems

Fitwel is one of several healthy building certification systems, but it has unique qualities that make it an attractive option.

Unlike systems like WELL or LEED, which can be complex and require substantial investment, Fitwel focuses on accessible, practical, and materials-based strategies that are often easier to implement and more affordable.

Its cost-effectiveness and practicality make it particularly appealing for projects that want to make impactful improvements without the resource intensity required by some other certifications.

While WELL has a detailed approach that covers aspects like nutrition, fitness, comfort, and mind, Fitwel takes a more straightforward approach, providing value through practical design and policies.

LEED, primarily focused on environmental sustainability, complements Fitwel’s health-oriented objectives by ensuring that the building’s overall environmental impact is also taken into account.

These certifications can sometimes be pursued in tandem to create a fully sustainable and health-supportive environment.

Implementation and Maintenance

Fitwel’s accreditation process is designed to be straightforward and achievable within 12 to 16 weeks. Certification remains valid for three years, and organizations must undergo recertification afterward to maintain their status.

The recertification process ensures that standards are being upheld and that the building continues to operate in alignment with the principles set forth during the initial certification.

Maintaining a Fitwel-certified status involves the ongoing evaluation of building policies, programs, and operations.

Regularly revisiting and updating strategies in areas like indoor air quality, social well-being, and physical activity promotion ensures the building remains aligned with the certification’s standards and keeps evolving to meet new health challenges.

Future of Fitwel Certification

As awareness of building health and wellness continues to grow, the demand for such certifications is expected to increase. The focus on employee health as a core part of corporate social responsibility and DEI has placed Fitwel in the spotlight as a key tool for the creation of healthier workplaces.

Conclusion

In an era where workplace wellness is of paramount importance, Fitwel certification is a worthy investment for organizations looking to prioritize health, enhance their brand, and create thriving, health-forward workspaces.

At Biofilico, we advocate for certifications like Fitwel, which align with our mission to design spaces that foster well-being and sustainability—making the world a healthier place, one building at a time.

The Power of Ergonomic Design: Boosting Comfort and Productivity in the Workplace

Ozana Business Club by Biofilico lounge area terrace view

In modern workplaces, productivity and wellbeing go hand in hand, so keeping workers comfortable and happy equates to improvements in a business’s bottom line; on this basis ergonomic design has a permanent seat at the table when considering workplace wellness.

Entire teams dedicated at medical universities such as Karolinska Universitet in Stockholm, Sweden are focused on ergonomics aiming to create a safe, comfortable, and productive workspace by taking into account human abilities and limitations, including body size, strength, skill, speed, sensory abilities, and attitudes.

This post explores the impact of ergonomic principles on comfort, productivity, and overall workplace satisfaction from our perspective as workplace wellness designers.

Understanding Ergonomic Design Principles

Definition and Importance

Ergonomic design involves tailoring workplaces, products, and systems to fit the capabilities and limitations of users. It aims to optimize human performance and well-being by minimizing discomfort and the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. Considering human factors and ergonomics early in the design process is crucial to creating safer, healthier, and more productive work environments.

In our coworking office design for Porto Montenegro for example, our aim was to create a number of different work environments for users, from low sofas, to high tables and high quality desk chairs by Spanish office furniture brand Actiu.

The Role of Human Factors Specialists

Human factors specialists apply ergonomic insights to develop ergonomic tools, equipment, and work environments that promote productivity and minimize health risks. Human factors engineering plays a crucial role in optimizing human well-being and overall system performance.

Ozana Business Club by Biofilico terrace marina view

Designing for Comfort and Productivity with Human Factors

Creating a Comfortable Work Environment

Ergonomic design alleviates physical strain and fatigue through well-designed workstations and tools. By fitting the user, it enhances comfort, reduces injury risk, and supports long-term health. Proper ergonomic design fits the human body and prevents repetitive strain injuries and musculoskeletal disorders.

Addressing repetitive movements is crucial to reduce ergonomic stresses. The prevalence of workplace injuries highlights the importance of ergonomic design in mitigating these risks.

Accommodating Diverse Needs

Ergonomic design considers the needs of diverse populations, including pregnant women, children, and the elderly. By adapting to unique requirements, it fosters inclusivity and accessibility. Ergonomic design helps prevent work-related injuries by considering the needs of diverse populations.

Testing and Feedback

Comfort Testing and User Feedback

Continuous user feedback and comfort testing refine ergonomic solutions, ensuring they effectively meet user needs and preferences. Comfort testing involves assessing the fit between ergonomic solutions and the human body.

Ozana Business Club interior design by Biofilico

Implementation and Policy

Implementing Ergonomic Design Principles to Prevent Workplace Injuries

Integrating ergonomic design into organizational policies ensures sustained benefits, fostering a culture of safety and well-being.

Emerging Trends and Opportunities in Ergonomics

The Future of Ergonomic Design

Technological advancements, such as AI and VR, present new avenues for ergonomic innovation. Sustainable design practices also shape the future, emphasizing eco-friendly solutions.

The International Ergonomics Association (IEA) plays a crucial role in advancing ergonomics science and practice, promoting the elaboration and advancement of ergonomics and human factors to improve the quality of life and overall system performance.

Conclusion

The Importance of Ergonomic Design

Ergonomic design is indispensable for creating workplaces that prioritize human comfort, safety, and efficiency. By embracing ergonomic principles, organizations foster healthier, more productive environments that adapt to evolving needs and technologies.

Explore how Biofilico integrates ergonomic expertise into wellness-focused interior design, enhancing your workplace’s comfort and productivity. Contact us to discover how ergonomic design can transform your environment into a hub of well-being and efficiency.

Best Practices for a Green Office Design That Boosts Productivity

a.i. generated image of a sustainable home office interior

Sustainable Office Design

What is Green Office Space?

Green workspace design focuses on minimizing environmental impact by integrating eco-friendly solutions throughout the office space. This approach encompasses the use of sustainable materials, recycled materials, optimizing natural light, and enhancing natural ventilation.

By prioritizing energy efficiency and environmental responsibility, green office design aims to create workspaces that are both functional and environmentally conscious. Incorporating green energy, such as renewable energy sources, plays a crucial role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and achieving sustainability goals.

This holistic approach not only supports sustainability but also fosters a healthier and more productive work environment.

Why is Sustainability Important to the Workplace?

Sustainability in office design is more than a trend; it’s a critical response to the global challenges posed by climate change and the carbon footprint of buildings. Establishing sustainability objectives before the design process begins is essential to ensure the use of eco-friendly materials, responsible sourcing, and sustainable furnishings.

Adopting green office practices helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and conserves natural resources. Incorporating renewable energy sources plays a crucial role in further reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Beyond the environmental benefits, sustainable office spaces contribute to a healthier and more enjoyable work environment, which can significantly enhance employee productivity and satisfaction. The synergy between sustainability and employee well-being underscores the importance of green office design in modern workplaces.

Maximizing Natural Light in Your Office Space

Utilizing daylight for a Healthier Environment

Light is a fundamental element of green office design. It not only reduces the need for artificial lighting, thereby lowering energy costs, but it also has a profound impact on employee well-being. Exposure to light can boost mood, energy levels, and overall productivity. To further enhance energy savings, consider the use of energy efficient lighting as a complementary strategy to natural light.

To maximize the benefits of outdoor light, consider incorporating large windows, skylights, or light tunnels into the office design. These features can flood the workspace with daylight, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere that supports both visual comfort and energy efficiency.

Designing for Daylight: Tips and Considerations

Effective daylight design involves strategic planning to ensure that outdoor light is utilized to its fullest potential.

Here are some tips to consider:

• Window Placement: Position large windows in areas where daylight can penetrate deep into the workspace. North-facing windows provide consistent light without the glare and heat associated with direct sunlight.

• Office Layout: Arrange workstations and communal areas to benefit from daylight. Consider open floor plans that allow light to flow freely throughout the space.

• Light-Reflective Surfaces: Use materials and finishes that reflect light, such as light-colored walls and ceilings, to enhance the distribution of daylight within the office

Boosting Workplace Productivity with Green Elements

Adding Indoor Plants for a Calm and Focused Environment

Incorporating indoor plants into office design is a simple yet powerful way to enhance both aesthetics and functionality. Plants contribute to better air quality by filtering pollutants and increasing oxygen levels. They also add a natural, calming presence that can reduce stress and improve concentration.

Embracing the concept of green offices, which integrates natural patterns and colors, can further connect people to nature, reduce CO2 emissions, and create healthier work environments to potentially boost employee productivity.

Options for greening your office include:

• Potted Plants: Place plants like peace lilies, spider plants, or ferns around the workspace to add greenery and improve air quality.

• Green Walls: Vertical gardens or green walls create a striking visual feature and provide significant environmental benefits, including improved acoustics and air purification.

• Indoor Trees: Small trees like ficus or rubber plants can add a sense of scale and nature to larger spaces.

These elements not only beautify the office but also foster a tranquil environment that enhances employee focus and productivity.

Incorporating Views of Nature for Inspiration

Access to views of nature, whether through windows or nature-inspired decor, can significantly enhance the workplace atmosphere. Research shows that visual connections to nature can reduce stress and increase creativity and job satisfaction.

Here are ways to integrate nature into your office:

• Outdoor Views: Position desks and seating areas to take advantage of views of green spaces, water features, or natural landscapes.

• Nature Murals: Use high-quality images or murals depicting natural scenes to bring the outdoors inside. This can be particularly effective in spaces without direct access to windows.

• Art and Decor: Incorporate artwork and decor that feature natural themes or materials, such as wooden sculptures or landscape photography.

These strategies can create a serene and inspiring environment that encourages creativity and well-being.

a.i. generated image of a sustainable corporate office interior

Designing for Comfort and Collaboration

Thermal and Sensory Variability for Employee Wellbeing

A comfortable office environment is essential for maintaining employee well-being and productivity. Providing individual control over thermal comfort and airflow allows employees to adjust their surroundings to suit their preferences, enhancing overall comfort.

Consider incorporating the following elements:

• Adjustable HVAC Systems: Implement systems that allow for personalized temperature and ventilation control in different office zones.

• Sensory Elements: Integrate textures, scents, and natural sounds into the office design. This can include using materials with varied textures, adding subtle natural scents, or playing ambient nature sounds to create a multi-sensory experience.

These features cater to individual preferences and contribute to a dynamic and engaging work environment.

Open Space Layouts for Collaboration and Communication

Designing office spaces that facilitate both individual work and collaborative activities is crucial for modern workplaces. Open space layouts that mimic natural environments can foster creativity and communication while providing areas for focused work. Here are some design ideas:

• Open Workspaces: Create large, open areas that encourage interaction and teamwork. Flexible furniture arrangements can support various activities, from group meetings to casual discussions.

• Private Nooks: Include secluded spaces where employees can retreat for quiet work or relaxation. These areas can be designed with comfortable seating and calming decor to provide a respite from the open office environment.

• Natural Dividers: Use plants or natural materials to define different zones within the office, creating a sense of separation without disrupting the flow of space.

Balancing open and private spaces helps accommodate diverse work styles and needs, promoting both collaboration and individual productivity.

Green Office Aesthetics

Choosing a Green Color Scheme for Your Office

A green color scheme can create a soothing and invigorating office environment. Shades of green are associated with nature and can have a calming effect, making them ideal for promoting focus and reducing stress. Consider these design tips:

• Emerald Green Walls: Use deep green tones for walls to create a rich and inviting atmosphere. This color works well in both communal areas and private offices.

• Natural Wood Accents: Incorporate natural wood elements, such as worktops, desk chairs, and picture frames, to add warmth and texture to the space.

• Complementary Colors: Pair green with neutral tones like beige or grey to balance the color scheme and create a cohesive look.

In addition to the color scheme, paying attention to home office decor, such as decorative accents like plants, candles, and picture frames, is essential for creating a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing green office environment.

Adding Organic Forms to Office Furniture

Incorporating organic forms and patterns inspired by nature into your green home office design can create a visually stimulating environment. This can be achieved through furniture, flooring, and decor that feature curves and non-linear patterns. Ideas include:

• Curved Furniture: Choose desks, chairs, and tables with soft, flowing lines that echo natural shapes.

• Nature-Inspired Textiles: Use carpets, rugs, and upholstery with patterns that mimic leaves, water ripples, or other natural motifs.

• Artwork and Accessories: Select decor items that reflect organic forms, such as sculptures, vases, or wall art featuring abstract representations of natural elements.

Creating a Productive Green Home Office

Tips for Designing a Green Home Office That Boosts Productivity

Designing a green home office that combines functionality with aesthetic appeal can significantly enhance your work-from-home experience. Here are some tips:

• Natural Elements: Incorporate plants, daylight, and materials like wood and stone to create a calming and inspiring workspace.

• Ergonomic Furniture: Choose furniture that supports good posture and reduces strain, such as adjustable desks and ergonomic chairs.

• Efficient Layout: Arrange your workspace to maximize productivity, ensuring that everything you need is within easy reach and distractions are minimized.

Determining and Achieving Sustainability Goals

Setting clear sustainability goals is crucial for guiding your green office design, perhaps less so for a green home office but for a corporate workplace it is absolutely essential. Consider the following steps:

• Eco-Friendly Materials: Choose sustainable building materials, furniture, and lighting that align with your environmental objectives.

• Energy Efficiency: Implement energy-saving measures, such as using LED lighting, installing energy-efficient appliances.

• Waste Reduction: Incorporate recycling and waste reduction practices into your office operations to minimize environmental impact.

The Benefits of a Green Office

How a Green Office Design Can Boost Productivity and Employee Satisfaction

A green office design offers numerous benefits, including reduced carbon emissions and a smaller environmental footprint. These sustainable practices also create healthier, more pleasant work environments, leading to increased employee well-being and productivity.

By integrating green elements into your green home office design, you can foster a workspace that supports both ecological responsibility and business success.

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For more insights and expert guidance on creating a green office that boosts productivity and well-being, email us here.

The Biofilico Guide to a Sustainable Office Fit-Out

Understanding Sustainable Workspaces

What is a Sustainable Office Fit-Out?

A sustainable workspace fit-out is a strategic approach to redesigning or refurbishing office spaces using eco-friendly materials and practices. The goal is to create a workspace that minimizes environmental impact while maximizing functionality and aesthetics. The World Green Building Council plays a crucial role in promoting these sustainable practices in office fit-outs.

This involves selecting materials that are sustainable, designing for energy efficiency, and integrating biophilic elements that enhance well-being and productivity.

Sustainable workspace fit-outs blend innovation and practicality to ensure that office spaces are not only environmentally friendly but also conducive to employee health and productivity.

Why is Sustainability Important in Office Fit-Outs?

Sustainability in office fit-outs is crucial for several reasons. The construction industry is a significant contributor to global carbon emissions, responsible for an estimated 39% of the world’s total.

By adopting sustainable practices, businesses can mitigate these impacts and contribute to preserving natural resources for future generations. The evolution of sustainable office solutions in response to advancing technology and design trends highlights cutting-edge trends such as the integration of renewable energy sources, smart building systems, and adaptive reuse of existing spaces.

Sustainable fit-outs also offer practical benefits, such as reducing operating costs through energy efficiency and resource conservation. Furthermore, a sustainably designed office can enhance employee well-being, potentially leading to higher productivity and satisfaction.

Setting Sustainability Goals and Standards

Office Sustainability Goals: Setting the Standard

Establishing clear sustainability goals is essential for guiding the fit-out process. These objectives will inform every decision, from material selection to design choices. A well-defined sustainability plan typically involves targets for reducing energy consumption, minimizing waste, and improving indoor air quality.

Standards like BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) and LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) provide frameworks for assessing and achieving these goals.

These standards evaluate various aspects of a building's sustainability, including energy efficiency, water usage, and overall environmental impact, helping businesses align their practices with global benchmarks.

Sustainability Standards for Office Fit-Outs

Businesses should identify which sustainability standards align with their values and operational needs. Adhering to certifications such as BREEAM and WELL can help achieve these goals and provide external validation of their efforts.

BREEAM focuses on the broader environmental impact, while WELL emphasizes factors that affect human health and well-being, such as air quality, lighting, and ergonomics. Incorporating these standards not only supports environmental sustainability but also contributes to creating a healthy, productive workplace that can attract and retain talent.

Designing a Sustainable WORKSPACE

Designing with Natural Light in Mind

Maximizing the use of natural light is a key aspect of sustainable office design. Natural light reduces the need for artificial lighting, thereby lowering energy consumption. It also has significant benefits for employee well-being, as exposure to natural light is linked to improved mood and productivity.

To harness natural light effectively, office layouts can be optimized to allow light to penetrate deep into the workspace. This might involve using glass partitions instead of walls, positioning workstations near windows, and employing light-reflective surfaces to distribute sunlight more evenly. Additionally, incorporating energy-efficient lighting solutions can further reduce energy usage and enhance the workspace ambiance, contributing to a greener, more sustainable environment.

Biophilia and Sustainable Soft Finishes

Biophilic design integrates natural elements into the office environment, creating a connection with nature that promotes health and well-being. This can be achieved by incorporating plants, water features, and natural materials like wood and stone into the design. Plants not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of an office but also improve air quality and regulate humidity.

Sustainable soft finishes, such as carpets made from recycled materials or eco-friendly fabrics, contribute to reducing the environmental footprint of a fit-out while providing comfort and style.

Sustainable Building Materials and Practices

Incorporating Sustainable Building Materials

Selecting eco-friendly materials is a cornerstone of a sustainable workspace fit-out. Options include using recycled or upcycled materials, low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints, and responsibly sourced wood. These choices help reduce the environmental impact of construction and create healthier indoor environments.

Sustainable office furniture, such as desks and chairs made from recycled or reclaimed materials, can also contribute significantly to minimizing waste and resource use.

Using Local Suppliers and Manufacturers

Sourcing materials and services locally can further enhance the sustainability of an office fit-out. Local suppliers typically have a smaller carbon footprint due to reduced transportation distances and can often provide more transparent information about the sourcing and manufacturing processes.

Supporting local businesses also stimulates the local economy and can lead to more personalized service and better alignment with project goals.

Eco-Friendly and Recycled Materials

Using eco-friendly and recycled materials is fundamental to sustainable construction. These materials are produced with minimal environmental impact and can be more easily disposed of or recycled at the end of their lifecycle.

Examples include cork, bamboo, and recycled plastic, which are durable, versatile, and have lower environmental footprints compared to traditional materials. By incorporating these materials, businesses can reduce waste and lower their carbon emissions, contributing to a more sustainable built environment.

WORKSPACE Energy Efficiency and Consumption

Reducing Energy Consumption in Sustainable Offices

Energy efficiency is a critical component of a sustainable office. Implementing energy-efficient lighting, such as LED and CFL bulbs, can significantly reduce energy consumption and environmental impact. These lighting systems use up to 75-80% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and have longer lifespans.

In addition to lighting, optimizing HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems and using energy-efficient appliances can further decrease energy consumption and operational costs.

Energy Management Systems for Sustainable Offices

Energy management systems (EMS) play a pivotal role in enhancing the energy efficiency of office buildings. These systems monitor, control, and optimize energy use across various functions within a building. By providing real-time data on energy consumption, EMS can identify inefficiencies and help set realistic energy-saving targets.

Integrating EMS with smart technologies, such as automated lighting and climate control systems, can create a more responsive and efficient energy management strategy, leading to substantial reductions in energy use and greenhouse gas emissions.

Creating a Sustainable Office Culture

Embracing Environmentally Friendly Office Practices

Creating a sustainable office culture involves adopting practices that reduce the environmental impact of daily operations. This can include simple actions like turning off lights and electronics when not in use, using eco-friendly cleaning products, and promoting recycling and waste reduction initiatives.

More comprehensive strategies might involve implementing composting programs, reducing water consumption through low-flow fixtures, and encouraging sustainable commuting options like carpooling or cycling.

Creating a Sustainable Office Culture

A truly sustainable office extends beyond the physical environment to foster a culture that values and practices sustainability. This can be achieved by partnering with workplace design firms that understand and support sustainability goals, providing employees with education and resources to adopt green practices, and integrating sustainability into the company’s core values and mission.

By cultivating a sustainable office culture, businesses not only enhance their environmental credentials but also create a more engaged and motivated workforce.

Implementing a Sustainable Office INTERIOR

Appointing a Project Manager or Project Team

Successfully implementing a sustainable worksapce fit-out requires effective project management. This involves appointing a dedicated project manager or team with the expertise and commitment to oversee the process from planning to completion.

Key considerations include choosing a fit-out company with a strong track record in sustainability, clear communication about budget and timelines, and ensuring that sustainability goals are prioritized throughout the project.

Developing a Detailed Interior Plan

A comprehensive and detailed interior plan is essential for a successful fit-out. This plan should reflect the organization’s sustainability goals and include specifications for materials, lighting, furniture, and layout.

Collaborating with a professional fit-out company can help translate these goals into a practical and aesthetically pleasing design. Clear, detailed planning helps ensure that the project stays on track and meets the desired outcomes in terms of sustainability and functionality.

Case Studies and Futureproofing

Successful Sustainable Office Fit Out Case Studies

Examining successful case studies can provide valuable insights into the benefits and challenges of sustainable office fit-outs. For example, Interface's “Mission Zero” project aimed to eliminate any negative impact the company might have on the environment by 2020. This ambitious goal led to innovations in sustainable materials and processes that have set a benchmark in the industry.

Similarly, Unilever's sustainable office fit-out resulted in a 46% reduction in total waste and a 32% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, demonstrating the significant environmental and operational benefits of sustainable practices.

Futureproofing Your Commercial Assets with Connectivity and Sustainability

Looking ahead, the future of sustainable office design is likely to be shaped by the integration of advanced technologies and the adaptive reuse of existing spaces. Trends such as incorporating renewable energy sources, implementing smart building systems, and designing for flexibility and resilience will play a key role.

By embracing these innovations, businesses can future-proof their commercial assets, ensuring that they remain relevant and sustainable in a rapidly changing world.

How Much Does a Sustainable Office Fit-Out Usually Cost?

The cost of a sustainable office fit-out can vary widely depending on factors such as the size of the space, the complexity of the design, and the choice of materials. While sustainable options might come with a higher initial cost, they often provide long-term savings through reduced operating expenses and improved employee productivity.

A thorough analysis of project requirements and potential benefits is essential to understanding the overall cost and value of a sustainable fit-out. Investing in sustainability can yield significant returns in terms of both environmental impact and business performance, making it a worthwhile consideration for forward-thinking organizations.

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For more insights and expert guidance on creating sustainable office environments contact us via email. Our team specializes in designing and implementing healthy, eco-friendly office spaces that support both people and the planet.

Simple Ways to Create a Greener Office

a.i. generated image of an organic office interior

Creating a greener office not only benefits the environment but also enhances workplace morale and efficiency. Here are some practical steps to make your office more sustainable, support local and sustainable businesses, and become more eco-friendly:

Create a Sustainable Work Environment

1. Decorate with Plants: Introduce office plants to improve air quality and reduce stress among employees. Greenery enhances ambiance and connects your workspace with nature, promoting a healthier environment through eco friendly business practices.

2. Embrace Natural Light and Ventilation: Maximize natural light and ventilation to reduce reliance on artificial lighting and HVAC systems. This not only saves energy but also creates a more comfortable and pleasant workspace. Natural daylight in office spaces is crucial for energy efficiency and sustainability.

Implement Sustainable Office Supplies

1. Buy in Bulk and Reduce Packaging: Minimize packaging waste by purchasing office supplies in bulk. Opt for suppliers that use eco-friendly packaging materials to further reduce environmental impact. Buying in bulk also helps to reduce waste by decreasing the amount of packaging that ends up in landfills.

2. Choose Eco-Friendly Business Cards: Opt for business cards made from recycled materials or sustainable alternatives. This simple switch reduces paper waste and supports sustainable practices.

3. Switch to Microfiber Cloths: Replace disposable paper towels with reusable microfiber cloths for cleaning. This reduces waste and promotes sustainability through responsible resource use.

a.i. generated image of a sustainable office interior

Reduce Energy Consumption for a lighter carbon footprint

1. Use Motion-Activated Light Switches: Install motion-activated light switches in offices and common areas to automatically turn off lights when not in use. This reduces energy consumption significantly.

2. Enable Power-Saving Mode: Encourage employees to enable power-saving or sleep mode on computers and office equipment. This simple step conserves energy during periods of inactivity.

3. Consider Solar Panels: Explore the installation of solar panels to harness renewable energy and reduce your office’s carbon footprint. Solar energy is a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional power sources, helping to lower carbon emissions.

Improve Energy Efficiency and Reduce Energy Consumption

1. Deploy Smart Power Strips: Use smart power strips to save money by automatically cutting off power to devices in standby mode. This prevents energy wastage from devices consuming power when not in use.

2. Digitize and Declutter: Reduce energy consumption associated with storage and servers by deleting old emails and digital files regularly. Optimize digital storage to streamline operations and reduce energy use.

Foster a Culture of Sustainability

1. Establish a Green Team: Form a green team or task force dedicated to promoting sustainable practices within the office. Empower employees to contribute ideas and initiatives for reducing environmental impact. Encourage employees to submit sustainability ideas for improving existing practices and processes in the office.

2. Educate and Incentivize: Educate employees about sustainability practices through workshops and training sessions. Incentivize green behaviors such as recycling and energy conservation to foster a culture of sustainability.

Optimize Office Operations

1. Promote a Paperless Office: Encourage digital documentation and communication to minimize paper usage. Implement a paperless policy and utilize digital tools for greater efficiency and reduced environmental impact.

2. Support Sustainable Commuting: Encourage greener commuting options such as public transportation, cycling, or carpooling. Offer incentives like public transport stipends to promote eco-friendly commuting habits. Motion-activated light switches are particularly useful in central office space, especially in separated areas like conference rooms and shared spaces, as they are less frequently used.

3. Reduce food waste: ensure that the office provides suitable containers for leftover lunches, fridge space for food to be kept fresh, and that all food is taken home at the end of the work week

Monitor and Evaluate Progress

1. Track Carbon Footprint: Establish metrics to monitor your office's carbon footprint and energy efficiency. Regularly assess progress and identify areas for improvement to achieve sustainability goals.

2. Review Sustainable Practices: Conduct periodic reviews of your sustainable initiatives and practices. Evaluate effectiveness, gather feedback from employees, and implement improvements to continually enhance sustainability efforts.

By implementing these tenets of green office practices, your workplace can contribute positively to environmental conservation while fostering a healthier, more productive atmosphere for all employees.

Embrace sustainability as a core value, and watch as your office transforms into a model of eco-friendly efficiency. For expert guidance on integrating sustainable design into your workspace, contact Biofilico today.

At Biofilico, we specialize in creating healthy and sustainable environments through innovative design solutions. Visit us at Biofilico.com to learn more about our approach to wellness interiors and healthy building practices.

Eye Health and Wellness in Workplaces

Studies show that tired eyes are the leading cause of bad eye health. This problem impacts the workforce most, with 77% of UK adults saying they experience eye strain after a long day at work. The numbers are clear indicators that workplaces must advocate for wellness and good eye conditions for employees. 

Creating a sustainable, eye-healthy workplace is achievable with the right focal points. 

Introducing more natural light

Natural light is an essential part of healthy building, a practice that focuses on improving the environment of workers for their long-term wellness. Having ample natural light sources helps align the body’s circadian rhythm and boosts serotonin production, which are crucial elements in improving workers' moods and cognitive functions. 

Our eyes also respond better to natural sunlight as long as they are not exposed directly outdoors. Ophthalmologists note that people tend to read more easily in well-lit environments. If applied well, the atmosphere becomes more conducive for work and visual activity, especially as Vitamin D from the sun helps regulate key calcium levels that help maintain good eyesight. 

Managing blue light

Most workplaces today have blue light everywhere. Digital exposure has become an intrinsic part of many employees’ daily lives. While the sun also produces blue light, artificial sources like screens and lighting fixtures emit a concentrated amount that leads to eye strain. This concern is one of the biggest priorities for workers, even though 81% of employers believe blue light protection increases employee productivity. 

Monitors can be set to a blue light setting that changes the screen's hue to minimise exposure, but this can’t always be applied in cases where accurate colour grading is essential to the work being done. Hence, many workers manage this by using blue light glasses.

BlueReflect lenses are a common option that uses anti-reflective coating to reduce glare and filter out blue-violet light from digital screens. Alternatively, the KODAK UVBlue lens includes UV blocking and anti-static layers that are perfect for workers with more intensive interactions with electronic components. 

European laws are making great strides in this area, requiring companies to provide prescription lenses for employees who regularly work with screens. For workplaces unaffected by this ruling, blue light filters can be applied over screens, and specialised bulbs can be installed to further minimise overall exposure. 

Creating a good colour palette

Workplaces must also focus on creating a colour scheme that is easier on the eyes. While simply having the presence of “harsh colours” such as red, orange, and yellow will not directly impact eye health, these can feel more strenuous to look at for extended periods. 

Cooler colours also directly impact employees' moods. Considering that over half of British workers say they feel stressed at work, it’s good to use interior elements that feel calming and motivating. Earth tones, soft greens, and other cool paint hues have been proven to improve spaces for productivity. 

Hitting the right brightness

Balance is the best when it comes to protecting workers' mental space and eye health. You don’t want to create an environment that is too bright and harsh, but dimly lit spaces do more harm than good. 

Neutral white lighting is the best option for areas designated for work, as this maintains concentration without overly cool tones that can strain the eyes. It’s good to have ample sources of light that can be controlled so that workers aren’t limited to one brightness level. Phillips Hue has an extensive line of smart bulbs that can be controlled to adjust energy consumption, warmth, and luminosity. 

You don’t want to go below 300 lumens because it fatigues the eyes more to process information. On the other hand, anything above 500 lumens can damage the retinas. Workplaces should also be mindful of the type of surfaces around the space. It’s best to avoid overly reflective materials if exposed to light sources, as glare not only hurts long-term eye health but also causes migraines. 

A guide to workplace wellness design

HERO healthy office, Switzerland (indoor garden by Biofilico)

A guide to workplace wellness design for a green healthy office

In this mini guide to designing healthy offices as part of a workplace wellness strategy, we cover what we consider to be the key fundamentals to get right: Indoor Air Quality (IAQ); Acoustic Comfort; Biophilic design; Thermal Comfort and Physical wellbeing.

We divide our content up into the distinct themes of a workplace wellness and wellbeing consultancy project, from construction, to interiors design and building operations as each phase offers distinct opportunities.

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)plays a vital role in shaping a healthy office, optimizing productivity and cognitive function, while indirectly reducing absenteeism.

It refers to the cleanliness and safety of the air within a building, encompassing a variety of potentially harmful pollutants, VOCs, dust particles and so on. 

By reducing the risk of allergies and respiratory problems, workers are assured of a healthier office environment to work in each day.

Investing in IAQ not only creates an appealing, healthy workspace but also cultivates employee well-being and boosts productivity.

But don't take our word for it, before we get into the 'how' let's review some of the more prominent research studies into this topic.

Research studies into Indoor Air Quality for employee health

• COGfx Study: best performance with carbon dioxide (CO2) levels <600 parts per million, ventilation rates at 40 cubic feet per minute per person, and TVOCs <50 micrograms per cubic meter.

  • This led to an 8% increase in employee decision-making performance. Additionally, crisis responses, information usage, and strategy test scores were higher in occupants who resided in green buildings as opposed to conventional buildings.

  • Increased productivity is 150x more significant than the resulting energy costs ($30 per year per person as a result of running the ventilation double the normal rate)

• Elevated PM2.5 levels detrimentally affect cognitive performance during short-term indoor exposure.

• “Improved ventilation rates can result in up to 35% fewer staff sick days” 

• Indoor spaces can be up to 5x more polluted than the outdoors due to VOCs that come from furnishing, paint, textiles, and more. 

Healthy building standards on IAQ for physical and mental health

• WELL Certified for a healthy office building

  • Formaldehyde: less than 27 ppb

  • Total VOC: <500 μg/m³

  • Carbon Monoxide: <9ppm

  • PM2.5 <15 μg/m³

  • PM10 <50 μg/m³

  • Ozone <51ppb

  • Radon <0.148 Bq/L in lowest occupies level of the project

• RESET AIR for a healthy workplace

  • Total VOC: <400 μg/m³

  • Carbon Dioxide: <600ppm

  • PM2.5 <12 μg/m³

  • Carbon Monoxide: <9ppm

• Fitwel for healthy office design

  • Total VOC: 500 μg/m³

  • Carbon Dioxide: <700ppm

  • PM2.5 <25 μg/m³

  • Carbon Monoxide: <9ppm

  • Formaldehyde: less than 27 ppb

  • Humidity: 30-60%

IAQ Design Concepts: Construction Phase

1. Natural Ventilation

   1. Operable Windows: Ensuring windows can be opened to allow fresh air circulation. Windows should be able to partially or fully open, allowing occupants to control airflow.

   2. Cross Ventilation: Position windows or vents across each other to create a natural cross-ventilation effect.

      1. Skylights can offer an extra bit of ventilation.

   3. Ventilation Design: Design HVAC systems that naturally optimize airflow. This may involve placing vents of openings in areas where prevailing winds can be harnessed.

   4. Atriums and Courtyards: These open spaces draw air into the building, improving air quality by acting as natural ventilation channels.

   5. Pathways: Design open floor plans to minimize obstructions to airflow.

2. Chemical Storage Ventilation

   1. Ensure proper ventilation in janitor closets, copy/print rooms, storage rooms, and other places that include the use of chemicals.

IAQ Design Concepts: Refurbishment

1. Air Filters

   1. High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) Filters: HEPA filters capture tiny particulates like dust, pollen, and airborne viruses and contaminants. 

      1. If HEPA is not possible, make sure your filter is MERV 13 or higher

   2. Activated Carbon Filters: These filters remove VOC’s, odors and gases, which is essential to keeping a clean workspace.

2. Non-Toxic Healthy Materials

   1. Green Purchasing Policy: Look out for these chemicals that are linked to harming your health and ensure a plan for the selection of product.

      1. PFAS: coined as ‘forever chemicals’, these chemicals stay in the environment and in the body indefinitely and disrupt hormonal functions.

      2. Antimicrobials: these are associated with reproductive problems.

      3. Flame retardants: Though added to products to meet flammability standards, they are known to harm human health, even without improving fire safety.

      4. Bisphenols + Phthalates: Another hormone-disrupting chemical found in food containers and flooring.

      5. Some Solvents: Products like oil-based paints and sealants contain solvents that are linked to neurological problems.

      6. Certain Metals: Some metals found in paint and fluorescent lights can be a risk to pregnant women and children.

      7. ​​Fact Sheet: The Living Building Challenge (LBC) Red List 2023 Update: A Guide for Project Teams. (a guide on what specific chemicals to avoid)

   2. Check for specific eco-friendly and sustainable, non-toxic certifications for paint, finishes, and furniture such as:

      1. Greenguard: Evaluates products for their low emotions of volatile organic compounds and other harmful pollutants. 

      2. Green Seal: Sets environmental standards for cleaning supplies, paints, building materials, etc. It ensures that certified products meet specific criteria for sustainability, performance, and health.

      3. Healthy Product Declarations (HPDs): Provide details on ingredients in building products and their potential health impacts. Develops standards with LEED in mind.

      4. Cradle2Cradle: Evaluates products based on material health, material reutilization, renewable energy, carbon management, water stewardship, and social fairness. 

      5. Mindful Materials

      6. LBC, WELL, LEED, and EGCC also set guides on materials

      7. Toxic material reduction | WELL Standard

   3. Product databases

      1. Healthy Materials Lab Material Collections

   4. Ensure asbestos-free property 

3. Healthy Entrance

   1. Tracking dirt into the office can bring in bacteria, heavy metals, and other toxins which can get into the air. Some measures to combat this are

      1. Entry Walk-Off System: grills, grates, and mats at the entrances when people can clean their shoes. 

      2. Shoe Cleaning Stations: This can include brushes or automated machines, ensuring they’re entering the office with cleaner shoes.

      3. Entry Air curtains: These devices release a stream of air that acts a barrier that prevents outdoor pollutants and insects from entering the building.

Operational

1. Air Quality Sensors (we are fans of Kaiterra but there are plenty of commercial grade brands out there now)

   1. Install air quality sensors to detect CO2 levels, pollutant levels (PM2.5 and PM10), and temperature. 

   2. Consider opting for smart sensors that automatically adjust windows or vents to maintain optimal indoor conditions.

2. Increase Ventilation Rates

   1. 40 cubic feet per minute per person

   2. Comply with all requirements set in ASHRAE 62.1-2013

3. Pest Management

   1. To reduce toxins and allergens, a building should ensure a Pest Management Plant that monitors and inspects for pests.

   2. Non chemical prevention methods include sanitation, removing clutter, and implementing cleaning protocols.

HERO healthy office acoustic booths by Citterio s.p.a

Acoustic Comfort

Acoustic comfort refers to the quality of the acoustics within an indoor environment and its impact on the people working there.

When designing a workspace for wellness, ensuring a high degree of perceived and real acoustic comfort is crucial for mental health in particular. 

Proper sound management can significantly enhance workplace wellness by reducing noise-related stress in office environments. 

Surveys show that mismanaged noise within offices impacts concentration, leading to headaches, distractions and low level stress that impede rather than enhance productivity. 

By creating a quiet workspace with just the right amount of ambient background sound (note: not noise!), employers can feel confident that they promote health amongst employees in their regular work environment.

Research on acoustic comfort in office space

• In a study conducted in America, out of 1000 employees, 70% reported noise affects their working rhythm and satisfaction, with a significant decrease in cognitive performance and health. 

• Recommended indoor noise range in an open space is 45-50dB, and 35-40dB in spaces meant for private work and concentration. 

• Participants in a study reported higher levels of fatigue and less motivation to continue working in open-plan offices with a loud environment.

• “According to the Leesman Index, 75% of employees feel that better acoustics are an important quality in an effective workplace, however only 30% of employees were satisfied with noise levels in their workplace.”

• Due to a higher reporting of stress in employees due to noisy offices, there is a correlation with increased coping strategies, which leads to an elevated amount of time wasted. 

Design Concepts for enhanced acoustic comfort: Construction Phase

1. Acoustic strategies in Interior Design

   1. Isolating HVAC Equipment: Proximity of HVAC equipment, poor noise isolation for equipment rooms, and exposed ceilings with open ductwork are some of the main causes of excessive noise in office design so be sure to plan ahead!

   2. Acoustic flooring: Choose materials such as sustainable carpet, cork or rubber to dampen sound, consider the use of acoustic underlay as part of a workplace design acoustic strategy.

   3. Double Glazing: Installing double-glazed windows and doors prevents external noise from affecting the working environment.

   4. Acoustic Panels: Installed on walls and ceilings by interior designers, these panels can absorb sound, reduce echoes, and improve sound quality in specific areas, making them highly targeted ways of enhancing working life for staff.

   5. Soundproof Paint: Special acoustic paint can be used to reduce noise and reflection

   6. Soundproof partitions: Use dividers or partitions to create areas for focused work or relaxation by minimizing noise.

2. Layout planning to increase productivity via acoustic comfort

   1. Zoning: Organize the office into quiet, focused work, collaborative areas, and recreational zones.

   2. Open and Closed Spaces: Though open layouts lead to more collaboration, they can lead to noise. Consider enclosed spaces like privacy pods and private meeting rooms. 

Design Concepts for enhanced acoustic comfort: Refurbishment

1. Healthy Materials

   1. Ecological Materials: Using green materials like mycelium and cork with natural sound absorbing properties.

   2. Soft Furnishing: Incorporating soft fabric curtains, rugs, and upholstered furniture can minimize reverberation.

2. Audio Sound Tracks

   1. Biophilic Soundscaping:Sounds from the natural environment, such as birdsong and flowing water, can help with reducing stress.

   2. Sound-Masking: Implementing a sound-masking system generates a consistent background “white noise” to prevent private conversations from traveling in open floor plans.

Biophilic recharge room / restorative quiet space, HERO offices, Switzerland

Biophilia and biophilic design

Biophilia is the integration of natural elements, such as plants, natural light, and organic materials, into the design of a workspace.

It's about creating an office environment that reflects our innate connection with nature. Implementing biophilia into office design allows for a plethora of mental and physical wellbeing benefits. 

Due to its power in psychological restoration, biophilic design enhances well-being by reducing stress and boosting mood, which in turn helps to increase job satisfaction.

Through biophilic, nature-inspired art and designs, these office interior design concepts can foster a sense of connection to the workplace. 

Research into biophilic design for employee health

• Environmental psychology research emphasizes that humans have an innate need for a connection with nature, which can aid in psychological restoration. In urban settings, incorporating elements like parks, interior designs inspired by nature, indoor plants, and green views can facilitate mental rejuvenation, contributing to overall well-being.

• Some benefits from introducing biophilia into the workplace, as reported by workers, were enhanced collaboration, improved morale, and mitigation against stress.

• 10% of employee absences could be attributed to architectural elements that do not connect with nature. 

• Better lighting that correlates with a person's natural circadian rhythms means better sleep quality. Studies found that in offices with higher amounts of daylight and improved lighting systems (increase in 374 LUX), there was a 25% increase in participant's sleep score, which led to a 2.8 increase in cognitive function. There were also higher scores in crisis response and strategy.

• Colors can dictate the moods of specific zones within an office. Green could help with calming occupants and could bring down eye fatigue. Blue is known for promoting productivity and well-being, being a stimulating color. And yellow is considered the color of creativity, known to stimulate mental clarity.

• In a global study, a third of office workers stated that the design of an office affects their decision to work at a company.

• Surveys show that the top elements employees want to see in their office, in descending order, are natural light, indoor plants, quiet working space, view of the sea, and bright colors. 

Design Concepts incorporating biophilia: Interior design phase

1. Biophilic Design Elements

   1. Water features: Having elements like fountains or aquariums can provide a sense of tranquility.

   2. Forms and Patterns: Incorporating patterns like fractals can encourage creativity.

   3. Art: Nature-inspired sculptures, objets d’art, and artworks. 

Design Concepts incorporating biophilia: Refurbishment phase

1. Plants

   1. Individual Plants

   2. Green Walls: Green walls have the added benefit of filtering air. 

2. Materials

   1. Ecological Materials: Natural and sustainable materials, such as stone, cork, and wood in decor and furniture can create a calming atmosphere. 

3. Nature Views & Light

   1. Install Large Windows: This will allow in more daylight, improving employees' circadian rhythms.

   2. Layout: Position workspaces closer to windows and views of nature.

   3. LED Lights: Install lighting systems with blue-white tones in the middle of the day, with warmer tones closer to sunrise and sunset.

   4. Operable Shading: Give occupants control over the amount of light coming in.

4. Color

   1. Nature-Inspired Color Palette: Choose colors inspired by nature, such as earthy tones or cool blues and greens. 

5. Scent

   1. Aromatherapy: Scents like peppermint, lavender, and rosemary aid in mental clarity and make rooms more enjoyable.

6. Wellness Spaces

   1. Rooms that incorporate all of these concepts to give people a place to recharge.

Thermal Comfort in a healthy workplace design

Thermal comfort in the context of office wellness refers to creating an indoor environment where employees feel physically comfortable with the temperature and airflow.

It involves maintaining an optimal balance to prevent individuals from feeling too hot or too cold.

Achieving thermal comfort is essential for promoting overall well-being in the workplace. When employers are uncomfortable due to a deviation from their optimal thermal environment, they become disengaged with their work, focusing too much on how to stay warm or cool off, which shows up in lower satisfaction and productivity. 

Research on thermal comfort in offices

• Participants in a study who worked in a thermal comfort zone, as defined by ASHRAE, performed 5% higher on cognitive simulations than those outside of it.

• Productivity reduces by 4% when occupants feel too cold, whereas warmer temperatures will

Design Concepts for thermal comfort: Construction Phase

1. Insulation

2. Temperature Control

   1. Flexible HVAC System: Install a zoned heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system that allows individual temperature control.

   2. Window Treatments: Provide adjustable blinds or curtains to control sunlight and temperature.

Design Concepts for thermal comfort: Refurbishment

1. Thermal Zones

   1. Barriers: Use curtains or room dividers to create thermal barriers in open spaces, allowing employees to customize their comfort.

   2. Thermostat Controls: Allow for smaller individual rooms to have thermostat controls.

   3. Personal Desk Fans and Heaters: Designate spaces for personal desk fans or small space heaters that employees can use as needed.

HERO healthy offices, Switzerland - activated stairwells

Promoting physical wellbeing in a healthy office

Creating a wellness-focused office environment for physical well-being is critical, with ergonomics and active design two essential elements to achieve this goal. 

By implementing ergonomic designs that fit the needs and capabilities of employees, you can promote comfort, reduce strain, and prevent injuries. 

Ergonomic design involves a focus on creating products and environments that are comfortable and safe for people to use.

It aims to answer the question, "How do we design a workspace that fits the employee's needs rather than having employees mold into their space?" 

Incorporatingactive design into the workday encourages movement and physical activity, leading to healthier behaviors and a more engaged workforce.

With reduced physical discomfort and improved posture, absenteeism can decrease, and employers can take less time off work due to back pains and discomfort, leading to a reduction in healthcare costs. 

Giving workers options on how they want to work leads to higher productivity and a positive corporate image as a wellness-focused employer.

By implementing both ergonomic design and active design, you can create a company culture and an environment where employees can thrive and be more productive.

Research into active design and ergonomic furniture in the workplace

• Proper ergonomic solutions within an office can reduce the number of musculoskeletal problems by 61%, which is turn reduces the lost workdays by 88%.

• Some studies may point to the fact that nonsitting work positions can lead to better cognitive function, with employees reporting less tiredness and higher concentration.

• Implementing active design and proper ergonomics reduces frustrated and fatigued workers, with studies showing that with the right solutions in place, there is an average of 67% reduction in errors. 

Physical and mental health in the office: Design Concepts for the Construction Phase

1. Active Travel

   1. Bikes: provide bike racks/storage

   2. Changing Rooms: Provide facilities for employers who want to bike or walk to work with lockers and showers

   3. Walkable Pathways: Design walking paths inside and outside the building, which can be used for informal walking meetings or short breaks. 

2. Facilities

   1. Sleep Facilities: Nap Pods, couches, hammocks, roll-out mats, fully reclining chairs.

   2. Restorative Space: Have a space for employees to step away from their desks.

   3. Bathroom Cleaning Protocol: Regularly clean restrooms to reduce transmission of viral and bacterial infections. 

   4. Fitness: Allocate spaces for fitness, like installing a gym or using an empty studio for yoga.

   5. Activated stairwells: Provide easier access and higher visibility to stairs than escalators or elevators on each floor.

Physical and mental health in the office: Design Concepts for the Refurbishment phase

1. Active Design

   1. Personal Storage: Workstation cabinet or locker

   2. Incentivize Staircase Use: By beautifying staircases and making them feel safe, employees are more likely to use them over elevators. 

      1. Installing music system

      2. Installing creative lights

      3. Decorating with art, murals, and colorful paint

      4. Moderating temperature to match the rest of the building

      5. Adding rubber treading

      6. Allowing access to daylight

      7. Stair signage: motivational language incentivizing usage of stairs.

      8. Increased visibility

      9. Stair safety: handrails, visual cues, lighting

2. Ergonomic Furniture

   1. Visual: Monitor stands to adjust computer screens to reduce eye strain.

   2. Desks: Adjustable standing desks

   3. Seats: Stability ball chairs or ergonomic chairs with lumbar support

      1. Different levels of seating: floor, sitting, standing

   4. Other: Adjustable keyboard trays and footrests to reduce pressure on the feet

Operational

1. Commuter Survey: Submit an annual survey to gather information of the satisfaction of commuters with current amenities.

Nutrition in the healthy office

Proper nutrition is crucial for promoting wellness in the workplace. It not only affects health and weight management but also plays a significant role in chronic disease prevention. 

When employees have access to better food options, it can lead to physical health improvement, mental clarity, and overall productivity.

On the other hand, lack of proper nutritional resources can result in hunger and sluggishness, negatively impacting the well-being of workers. 

A well-balanced diet can enhance concentration and mood, reducing fatigue and enhancing cognitive performance, contributing to better long-term health outcomes. 

Research on nutrition in a healthy office space

• Nutrition at Work: Opportunities to Improve Employee Wellness

Design Concepts to promote nutrition in a healthy office: Refurbishment phase

1. Seating design

   1. Seating choice variety: Implement both high-top tables and booth seats.

   2. Provide a quiet dining zone with no television to encourage mindful eating.

2. Eating Spaces

   1. Provide a refrigerator, a device for reheating food, a sink, amenities for dishwashing, a storage unit, and eating utensils.

3. Water Supplies

   1. Provide accessible drinking fountains, sinks, and water supplies throughout the workplace.

   2. Water bottle refilling stations: can prompt to improve hydration.

Operational strategies to promote nutrition in a healthy office

1. Water testing

   1. Ensure that the water is free of pathogens and contaminants on a regular basis.

2. Healthy Food and Beverage Policy:

   1. Increase access to healthy foods and a variety of options that would make food accessible to those with dietary restrictions.

   2. Feature healthy food and beverages as the default, prioritizing healthy options through layout and pricing.

   3. Ensure vending machines and snack bars are stocked with healthy options.

   4. Farm stands: Incorporate farmers' markets at or near the workplace to give employees access to fruits and vegetables.

CONTACT US VIA EMAIL HERE TO DISCUSS YOUR WORKPLACE WELLNESS AND HEALTHY OFFICE PROJECT ENQUIRIES

Green Building Barcelona: Best Sustainable and Healthy Office Interiors — Biofilico Wellness Interiors

entegra office building barcelona

The six best green and healthy office real estate developments in Barcelona are all located in the PobleNou district. This ex-industrial area, the avant-garde centre of the city, is rapidly evolving into the hub for sustainable construction.

Barcelona is a model for sustainable urban development through its implementation of superblocks and sustainable architecture, creating pedestrian-friendly spaces, reducing traffic congestion, and improving air quality.

Each one of the buildings reviewed, is built with its own ESG approach and priorities such as energy efficiency or environmental and public health first, often achieving renowned certifications like LEED and WELL.

The office developments covered below are:

• Badajoz 97

• Entegra building

• Green Business District

• T3 Diagonal Mar

• Wittywood

• Lumen Offices

what is a sustainable office interior?

A sustainable office is part of the broader concept of sustainable architecture, which encompasses eco-friendly and energy-efficient workspaces designed to reduce the carbon footprint and promote sustainability.

The concept of sustainable office interior design has gained popularity in recent years, especially in the real estate industry, as businesses are increasingly becoming aware of the impact of their operations on the environment.

Sustainable office interiors are designed to conserve energy, minimize waste, and use environmentally friendly materials throughout the space.

what is sustainable office interior design in sustainable architecture?

The design of a sustainable office interior includes various sustainable practices such as natural lighting, energy-efficient systems, and the use of sustainable materials. These features encompass energy-efficient lighting systems, water-saving plumbing fixtures, and HVAC systems that consume less energy. The use of sustainable materials such as recycled wood, bamboo, and other renewable resources is also a key aspect of sustainable office interiors.

The workplace design should also incorporate green spaces, such as plants and green walls, which not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the workspace but also contribute to air purification.

benefits of sustainable office interiors with energy efficiency

Sustainable office interiors have several benefits, including reduced energy costs, improved indoor air quality, increased employee productivity, and enhanced brand reputation.

These benefits are driving more businesses to adopt sustainable office interiors as part of their corporate social responsibility initiatives.

what is a healthy office interior with natural light?

A healthy office interior is an essential aspect of any modern workplace focused on improving the mental and physical wellbeing of employees. The interior design of an office can have a significant impact on employee health, meaning an office space will affect their productivity, creativity, and to some extent overall job satisfaction.

On this basis, a healthy workplace should be designed with the aim of creating a comfortable and stimulating work environment that supports the physical and mental health and emotional needs of employees while they are in the office building - how they deal with their home office environment is a subject for another blog post!

how to create a healthy office?

The interior design of an office should provide ample natural light, fresh air, and comfortable temperature levels to promote a healthy environment. The use of natural materials, such as wood and stone, can create a soothing atmosphere that reduces stress and anxiety levels.

Additionally, incorporating plants into the office decor can improve indoor air quality, promote health, and create a calming effect on employees.

Ergonomic furniture is a crucial aspect of a more healthy office design and interior. Chairs, desks, and other office furniture should be adjustable to accommodate different body types and promote good posture. This can help prevent back pain, neck pain, and other musculoskeletal issues that can arise from prolonged sitting.

The color scheme of an office interior can also impact employee wellbeing. Bright, bold colors can be energizing, while muted tones can be calming. It is important to strike a balance between these two extremes to encourage employees and create an environment that is both stimulating and relaxing.

In conclusion, a healthy office interior is essential for promoting the wellbeing of employees. The design should prioritize natural light, fresh air, and comfortable temperature levels, incorporate natural materials and plants, feature ergonomic furniture, and use a color scheme that balances stimulation and relaxation.

By creating a comfortable, productive and stimulating work environment, employers can improve employee productivity, creativity, and job satisfaction.

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green business district, barcelona

Green Business District healthy office development Barcelona

The Green Business District is a 15,507 sqm project developed by Glenwell Group that offers a sustainable balance between life and work. The four office buildings comprising the complex are connected through an extensive natural environment that highly improves the quality of life of those working in the District.

This innovative complex designed by the architectural firm BCA offers a unique combination of historical heritage and highly innovative contemporary buildings, as the existing modernist architecture is beautifully restored and included as part of the project.

The different buildings are harmoniously merged together into one stimulating environment through the natural landscapes.

The interiors are designed as state-of-the-art flexible office spaces ready to meet the unique needs of each of their users. Still, despite the versatility, each space provides thermal and acoustic comfort as well as the highest standards of quality, sustainability and health. The use of innovative air conditioning systems, such as free-cooling units and sensor-regulated systems, achieves energy efficiency and reduces CO2 emissions.

The different biophilic and environmental design features have contributed to acquiring a LEED Platinum Certificate and a WELL Gold Certificate.

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entegra office building barcelona

Entegra sustainable office building Barcelona

Entegra is an eight-story, sustainable office building of 4,138 sqm designed by the architectural studio Batlleiroig and developed by Urban Input. The singular look of its facade is granted by a charred wood cladding as the project enhances a connection with nature.

The offices aim to enhance the well-being of the users by providing space to breathe. Each storey offers a spacious open floor plan interior that expands into a large wooden deck offering a  limitless perception.

The expansion provided by this experience, as well as the presence of vegetation, inspires the users to take a breath and rest which positively influences their physical and mental health and well-being.

The different sustainability features included in the Entegra design contribute to the LEED Gold Certification. Additionally, the application of different bioclimatic strategies such as thorough insulation and smart automated natural ventilation highly reduces the energy demand.

This energy efficiency is supported by a solar power installation, including photovoltaic solar panels, enabling it to achieve a near Net Zero Energy Building (NZEB).

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Wittywood, Barcelona

Wittywood sustainable office design Barcelona

This 3,600 sqm project developed by Colonial is the first Spanish office building built entirely of wood. Betarq, the architecture studio in charge of Wittywood‘s design, chose to raise this construction with a wooden structure as a solution to lower its environmental impact as well as to contribute to a healthier work environment.

Using wood as a construction material reduces the carbon footprint by as much as 50% but also provides a good thermal resistance which helps improve the energy efficiency of the building. Additionally, the project produces its own renewable energy with solar panels, cutting down the energy demand considerably.

Such green building strategies contributed to obtaining a LEED Platinum Certification, though given the commitment to prioritise the user’s well-being, Wittywood has obtained a Well Platinum Certification as well.

The interior spaces are thought to create a natural work environment and offer spacious open floor plan designs, finished with prime natural materials and floor-to-ceiling windows to maximise daylight indoors.

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Badajoz 97, Barcelona

Badajoz 97 real estate development Barcelona

As part of the 2019 Urban Improvement Plan, this 14,000 sqm building developed by Conren Tramway and designed by Batlleiroig architects harmoniously integrates past and future.

Located in a rapidly evolving neighbourhood, Badajoz 97 embraces its industrial heritage with a black ceramic facade while opting for a highly innovative structural solution that enables modern-looking large open floor indoor spaces.

This sense of openness is enhanced by the addition of a wide terrace at the end of every floor. These exterior spaces are designed as gardens and aim to enhance the connection to nature, contributing to a healthier environment with improved air quality.

The different strategies utilised to improve the well-being of the users have granted this building a WELL Certification.

https://www.batlleiroig.com/es/projectes/oficines-badajoz-97-a-barcelona/

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Edifico Lumen, Barcelona

Lumen Offices office real estate Barcelona

The presence of extensive vegetation contributes to the environment as well as promoting biodiversity and helps maintain stable temperature and humidity levels.

Other sustainable strategies such as passive design features and the installation of photovoltaic panels help reduce the energy demand and grant the building with a LEED Gold Certificate.

This unique office building is conceived out of the sustainable idea of repurposing an existing structure. Designed by Batlleiroig and developed by Heptaprim-Odiseus, the Lumen Offices maintains an early 90's garage structure and turns it into an example of sustainability and efficiency. 

Aimed to improve the well-being of its users, this office building enhances an indoor-outdoor relationship and uses different biophilic strategies to integrate nature into its design.

The terraces and exterior spaces are essential to this project as having been designed as gardens, contribute to an improved air quality.  

The broad extension of plants surrounding the building provides a filter protecting the direct, hot sun rays from overheating the interiors.

As a result, vegetation helps maintain a temperature of comfort cutting down energy consumption. The energy efficiency of the Lummen Offices is further supported as it produces its own renewable energy with photovoltaic panels.

https://edificiolumen.com/equipo/

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T3 Diagonal Mar, BArcelona

T3 Diagonal Mar green and healthy offices Barcelona

This innovative project developed by Hines and Hendersons Park is designed to meet the highest standards of sustainability and well-being. A combination of wood, vegetation and avant-garde technologies has led the team behind this building to receive three distinguished certifications: LEED Platinum, WELL and WiredScore.

Designed by Batlleiroig this 3,610 sqm project is divided into four open floor plan stories. With the intention and focus of providing a healthy building, the interiors are finished with warm wood, equipped with ventilation systems, and flooded with natural light.

The floor-to-ceiling windows and terraces contribute as well to creating an indoor-outdoor transparency offering a sense of connection to the city. 

To increase productivity and minimise energy consumption T3 Office building is designed using passive strategies. Yet, the self-production of solar energy and the usage of the latest industrialised systems contribute to a reduced energy demand.

What are Healthy Workplace Spaces and Their Benefits — Wellness Design Consultants

Introduction to Healthy Coworking Spaces

Healthy coworking spaces are essential for promoting workplace health and wellbeing. These environments are designed to be supportive, fostering collaboration, creativity, and productivity among their members. By prioritizing health, these spaces can help prevent ill health and encourage healthy behaviors, such as regular physical activity, healthy eating, and good mental wellbeing.

One of the key benefits of a healthy coworking space is its ability to address common health issues that can affect workers. Poor mental health, substance misuse, and musculoskeletal conditions are prevalent in many workplaces, but a well-designed coworking space can help mitigate these problems. For instance, ergonomic furniture can reduce the risk of musculoskeletal conditions, while access to fitness facilities and healthy food options can promote physical activity and healthy eating.

Human resources teams play a crucial role in creating and maintaining a healthy coworking space. By providing resources and support for employees, HR can help foster a culture of health and wellbeing. This might include offering workshops on stress management, providing access to mental health resources, or organizing regular physical activity sessions. By prioritizing workplace health, HR teams can help create a healthy workforce that is more productive, engaged, and satisfied.

In summary, healthy coworking spaces are not just about providing a place to work; they are about creating an environment that supports the overall health and wellbeing of their members. By addressing common health issues and promoting healthy behaviors, these spaces can help create a more productive and positive work environment.

arsenal business club, montenegro - interiors by biofilico

what are the benefits of healthy workplaces and coworking space designs?

Co-working spaces are essentially shared office environments for businesses that provide freelancers, small business owners and independent operators with a professional place to work, collaborate, and network.

Typically the. benefits of coworking space compared to conventional office space are the efforts of the community managers, access to coffee shops for remote workers, private office (in the same space but away from the main hotdesk area) for an additional cost.

One of the advantages of coworking spaces compared to a traditional office is that they typically provide at the very least a combination of communal spaces, private office space means, flexible office spaces, hot desks flexible workspace, meeting rooms, event spaces, kitchens, reception and so on.

As an office interior design firm specialized in sustainability and wellbeing however, an optimized coworking spaces offer can be so much more than that - shower facilities, social space, fitness studio, natural light, acoustic phone booths, standing desk space and other wellness oriented facilities.

What is the meaning of co-working space design?

Co-working spaces are essentially shared office environments for businesses that provide freelancers, small business owners and independent operators with a professional place to work, collaborate, and network.

Typically the. benefits of coworking space compared to conventional office space are the efforts of the community managers, access to coffee shops for remote workers, private office (in the same space but away from the main hotdesk area) for an additional cost.

One of the advantages of coworking spaces compared to a traditional office is that they typically provide at the very least a combination of communal spaces, private office space means, flexible office spaces, hot desks flexible workspace, meeting rooms, event spaces, kitchens, reception and so on.

As an office interior design firm specialized in sustainability and wellbeing however, an optimized coworking spaces offer can be so much more than that - shower facilities, social space, fitness studio, natural light, acoustic phone booths, standing desk space and other wellness oriented facilities.

What explains the trend in flexible work spaces?

Co-working spaces are designed to give digital nomads, entrepreneurs, freelancers and simply those who do not have an office to go to the opportunity to access the same resources as larger companies without having to pay for and commit to expensive office space. They also provide a sense of community as workers come together to share ideas and resources.

This type of working environment can be beneficial for those who need flexibility in their work schedule or who want an alternative to working from home.

Additionally, co-working and coworking spaces can be great for networking purposes as it allows people from different industries to come together and form relationships. Imagine a co-share office with gym on-site where co-workers with a shared interest in fitness can connect, for example. This explains why coworking spaces are such a hot sector right now!

ozana business club interior design by biofilico

What is the difference between a business Centre or shared office space and a coworking space?

The main difference between a business centre or shared office space and a coworking space is the level of flexibility they offer but then there is a less tangible difference in terms of the atmosphere and vibe they each represent.

Business centres are typically more structured, with fixed leases and terms of agreement, they also have a more formal atmosphere.

Shared office spaces are also usually very structured too but with shorter term agreements than business centres, again though this is essentially a classic office vibe, a long way from the fresh approach of a coworking space.

This is often not the place to go looking for office interior design plans with great office interior design, proper lighting and creative layouts by sustainable office interior design companies.

Flexible contracts

Generally coworking spaces are more flexible in terms of membership length and cost. They also provide a far wider range of amenities than business centres or shared office spaces, from the obligatory communal kitchens, break out areas, conference rooms, coffee stations, rooftop lounges, games rooms, and even gyms.

Community aspect

Additionally, coworking spaces deliberately encourage interaction and collaboration between members via an events program, wellness activities, run clubs and social events, which can all be beneficial for those looking to develop new relationships or simply feel part of a community every day when they go to work. Team leaders play a crucial role in fostering a healthy and collaborative community within these spaces, ensuring that members feel supported and engaged.

A well designed office for co-working can literally be the key to a new city, as it was for company founder Matt Morley when he moved to Lisbon, Portugal in 2017 with nothing but a couple of suitcases and an AirBnB reservation… everything that came afterwards was in some way thanks to the crew at Second Home Lisboa coworking. Is one space proves the importance of office interior design on worker wellbeing, it is this biophilic gem!

innovation centre coworking interiors by biofilico

What is workspace design in the context of the current coworking trend?

Workspace design is the process of creating a creative indoor environment that meets the functional and aesthetic needs of its occupants, whilst aligning with the distinct set of values and personality of the coworking brand in question.

design for your target audience

As experts in designing coworking spaces for a range of different target audiences, from high-net worths to low budget start-ups, we take into account a range of factors such as ergonomics, lighting, acoustics, and interior aesthetics. Identifying priority areas in the design process is crucial to cater to the needs of different target audiences effectively.

Our aim is to maximize productivity and comfort whilst delivering the interior design and fit-out on time and on budget.

The goal is to create an environment for professionals that encourages collaboration, creativity, and productivity while still providing a pleasant atmosphere for workers. Factors such as zoning, acoustics, workflow management, and team dynamics should all be taken into account when designing a workspace.

ozana business club interior design by biofilico

What are the principles for designing a healthy coworking office space?

The principles for designing a healthy coworking office space include creating an ergonomic workspace that encourages movement, with abundant natural light and suitable ventilation rates for indoor air quality that all contribute to occupant wellbeing.

Acoustics

We also look for ways to reduce noise pollution between different zones, and create distinct quiet zones using acoustic panels, privacy booths and other sound absorbing materials to facilitate deep work and focus.

This is especially important for those n the creative industries and business owners looking to get $$$$ done!

Biophilic design

Natural elements such as plants and outdoor spaces both help to create a calm atmosphere and reduce anxiety levels, when done correctly. This is a fundamental concept behind the use of biophilic design in our coworking spaces and offices, see more on this subject below.

Other design considerations

Additionally, it is important to ensure that the space is designed with safety in mind, with adequate ventilation, fire safety measures in place, and clear emergency exit routes. Finally, workspaces should be designed with flexibility in mind to accommodate changing needs of occupants throughout the working day.

ozana business club interiors by biofilico

How do you plan a coworking space design?

When planning a co-working space design, it is important to consider the needs of the occupants, the goals of the organization, and the available budget.

The layout should be designed to maximize space utilization and encourage collaboration between members.

ergonomics

Additionally, it is important to consider ergonomics and comfort when selecting furniture and equipment. It is also important to factor in natural elements such as light and air quality as well as soundproofing elements where necessary.

Finally, it is important to ensure that safety measures are in place such as adequate ventilation and fire safety measures.

What is an example of healthy co-work space design by Biofilico?

Our previous project the Ozana Business Club in Porto Montenegro is a business members club that caters to the needs of local professionals and entrepreneurs with an interest in the dynamic community around Porto Montenegro (where Biofilico's founder Matt Morley was a Director from 2010-2019).

ozana business club interior design by biofilico

Ozana Business Club, Porto Montenegro

The club offers a range of amenities and services that are designed to help members succeed in their respective fields, it was all designed by our in house design team with local assistance in the fit-out and project delivery, as well as signage production.

The club provides access to the latest technology, such as high-speed internet, office space, and meeting rooms.

Members can also benefit from networking opportunities with other business professionals in the area.

Additionally, the club offers exclusive access to networking events, and seminars that provide valuable advice on topics such as finance, marketing, and management.

With its many facilities and impressive list of amenities, the Ozana Business Club provides an ideal environment for business owners to grow their businesses.

innovation centre porto montenegro by biofilico

Innovation Centre, Porto Montenegro

Another past project of ours, the Innovation Centre Porto Montenegro coworking space is a unique, collaborative environment that provides entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small business owners with the opportunity to work in an inspiring and creative atmosphere.

By being part of the coworking community, individuals have access to a network of like-minded people who can help them grow their businesses and reach their goals.

The space also offers amenities such as high-speed internet, meeting rooms, office supplies, and comfortable seating areas.

On top of that, members can attend workshops and events that will help them further develop their skills or learn more about the industry they are in.

The Innovation Centre is more than just some meeting rooms and a shared workspace though; it is a hub for creativity and innovative ideas.

Our biophilic recharge room for EcoWorld Ballymore in London

examples of co-working offices with workplace wellness design and healthy interiors

One clear example here is WeWork, which has a ‘Wellness Spaces’ program, essentially a coshare office with gym or yoga space concept. Not every coworking space has its own private gym facilities as space is often at a premium but a few of the best do have an onsite gym, or perhaps a ground floor cafe serving cognitive enhancing nootropic drinks.

These wellness spaces are designed to promote physical and mental health through various features like ergonomic furniture, natural lighting, and abundant greenery. Additionally, the company offers healthy snacks and beverages at its locations as well as access to fitness classes. In the East Midlands, workplace wellness initiatives have been implemented, resulting in an average of 5.6 sick days taken by employees in this area in 2021.

Other co-working office brands that prioritize workplace wellness design include the Knotel workclubsSoho Works that both leverage elements of hospitality and slick interior design to help them stand out from the crowd.

These brands create a healthy work environment with features such as standing desks, air purification systems, and natural materials like wood or stone in their interior design. They also provide access to yoga classes, meditation rooms, and healthy snacks in their lobbies or common areas.

By providing these amenities and creating a healthier workspace for employees, these co-working office brands are helping to reduce stress levels and create more productive work environments.

benefits of healthy indoor environment and wellbeing interior design in coworking spaces?

A healthy indoor environment and wellbeing interior design in a coworking space can have numerous benefits for both employers and employees. For employers, it can lead to improved productivity and creativity, as well as reduced absenteeism due to better air quality.

For employees, it can mean improved mental health, physical comfort, and increased motivation. It can also lead to increased collaboration among staff members as the space is designed to foster better communication.

Additionally, a healthy indoor environment in a coworking space can help reduce stress levels by providing natural light, calming colors and materials, ergonomic furniture, noise-reduction features, and a comfortable temperature.

Finally, such an environment can create an atmosphere of trust between coworkers which helps build strong working relationships.

research studies

Our biophilic recharge room for EcoWorld Ballymore in London

While some of these benefits can appear intangible, a coworking space does provide a unique testing ground for such experiments in workplace wellness research studies as the members are often young, open-minded and tech-savvy.

The number of research studies undertaken thus far though remains conspicuously low.

One of our own previous attempts to pin down some of these benefits was a biophilic space we created for real estate developer EcoWorld Ballymore in London's Canary Wharf district.

Over 100 respondents were invited into our waterfront recharge room one cold January and asked to spend 30-60 minutes surrounded by air-purifying plants, birdsong, candles and natural aromatherapy, we aked them to respond to a questionnaire before and after.

The results show that such spaces can have an immediate, positive impact on mood, stress levels, anxiety and feelings of nature-connectedness, as well as productivity and concentration.

See more on our recharge rooms here.

what studies exist proving the benefits for productivity and concentration from working in a biophilic office environment?

Studies conducted by the Harvard Business Review have shown that biophilic office environments increase employee productivity and focus.

The study showed that when employees were exposed to natural elements such as plants, natural light, and other natural elements, their productivity increased by 6%.

Furthermore, employees reported feeling more relaxed and concentrated during their workday when working in an office with biophilic elements.

Another study from the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that employees who worked in a biophilic office environment reported lower stress levels than those who did not.

These findings suggest that incorporating biophilic elements into an office environment can have a positive impact on employee productivity and concentration levels.

See our dedicated webpage covering a wide range of such research studies here.

what other case studies exist for integrating biophilic design principles in a coworking office space?

One such example of biophilic design being integrated in a coworking office space is the design of the WeWork office in London. The designers embraced numerous biophilic design principles, such as natural light, natural materials, and plants. The lobby area was filled with greenery to create a connection between the indoors and outdoors.

There were also plenty of plants placed around the workspace to help improve air quality and provide a sense of calmness. The designers also made use of natural materials like wood and stone to bring an organic feel to the office space. These materials were used throughout the entire workspace, from walls to furniture.

Large windows allowed plenty of natural light into the shared workspace, which helped reduce lighting costs while providing occupants with views of the city and nature outside. Overall, this coworking office space serves as an inspiring example for how biophilic design principles can be successfully implemented in an office setting.

how do Second Home coworking offices use biophilic design?

Second Home coworking offices are designed with biophilic design principles in mind. This means that natural elements are incorporated into the workspace to create a calming atmosphere. Natural light is used as much as possible and plants are strategically placed throughout the office.

Natural materials such as wood, stone, and other organic elements are used in the decor to bring a sense of the outdoors inside. The idea is to create a workspace that feels like an extension of nature, rather than a cold and sterile environment.

Second Home also utilizes green walls and terrariums filled with lush, vibrant foliage to add an extra layer of comfort for its members. These elements work together to create a space that invokes feelings of tranquility and productivity, allowing members to reach their full potential. They may not have private gym facilities but they do include fitness classes and other group activities instead.

What are the main services provided by flexible workplace providers for improved mental wellbeing of its members?

A creative workspace with concern for worker wellbeing can offer workshops on topics such as stress management and mindfulness that can help workers reduce stress levels. Coworking offices can also provide mental health resources such as free counseling sessions or discounted therapy fees for workers who need extra support.

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Further Reading

• A Guide To Biophilic Design In Offices & Coworking Spaces

• Coworking Space Design - A Secret To Productive Coworking Space

• Benefits Of Biophilic Design In Offices & Coworking Spaces

• Sustainable Office Space - Make Your Office More Eco-Friendly

• Healthy Interior Design At The Innovation Centre Co-Working

• Coworking Space Design - A Secret To Productive Coworking Space

• Benefits Of Biophilic Design In Offices & Coworking Spaces

• A Guide To Biophilic Design In Offices & Coworking Spaces

• Healthy Interior Design At The Innovation Centre Co-Working

• Office Interiors & Outdoor Workspace, Porto Montenegro

• Posts in Active Design

• Benefits Of Biophilic Design - Why Is It Good For You?

• Architecture For Health - Buildings Designed For Wellbeing

• How To Use Lighting In A Healthy Building Plan

• Wabi Sabi Philosophy And Its Use In Interior Design

• Kids Club Design - The Importance Of Clubs For Kids

• Free E-Book: Benefits Of Biophilic Design In Offices & Coworking Spaces

• Mental Wellbeing In Healthy Buildings

• What Is Wellness Design In A Healthy Buildings And Wellbeing Interior Strategy

• Introducing The World Green Building Council Health & Wellbeing Framework

• Healthy Building Design Strategies For Nutrition & Hydration

• Well Building Standard: Mind M09 Enhanced Access To Nature

• 5 Best Examples Of Biophilic Design

• What Are Biophilia And Biophilic Design?

• Well Building Standard Movement V07 Active Furnishings

• Homepage

Ergonomic Furniture Examples in Workplace Wellness Interior Design — biofilico wellness interiors

Casa Biofilico, Barcelona, Spain

Furniture in Workplace Wellness Interior Design: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Ergonomic Office Furniture

As organizations become more aware of the importance of employee wellbeing and the role of a healthy workplace on physical and mental health, having a comprehensive workplace wellness strategy is becoming a key aspect of any successful business.

Besides office space interventions such as biophilic design with natural elements, one other major factor that contributes to promoting health in a work environment is the specific office furniture used in the workspace, particularly the ergonomic chair.

This article will explore the importance of ergonomic office furniture within the wider context of healthy office design and a healthy coworking space strategy.

Introduction to Workplace Wellness and the Importance of Ergonomic Office Furniture

Workplace wellness programs are becoming more popular as employers recognize the benefits of creating a healthy work environment, so whether the focus is to enhance productivity or creative thinking, interior designers such as ourselves with an interest in physical wellbeing need to be up to speed on ergonomic furniture.

Before we get into the details though, let us consider what else might be included in a healthy office strategy to provide some context. Nowadays, HR departments typically include everything from healthy eating initiatives to exercise programs and consideration for the design of the work environment itself.

A company culture designed to encourage employees to adopt healthy habits, be that stepping away from their computer screens during a lunch hour to take in some natural surroundings in a nearby park or adopting a flexible working regime to balance responsibilities at home.

Ergonomic furniture may seem like a minor detail in such a broad context of workplace design but for those office jobs that still involve long days in front of a computer screen, the choice of workspace furniture, desk and chair with ergonomic support can have a tangible impact on staff wellness, in particular their physical health.

Prolonged sitting in offices without large windows for natural light on an uncomfortable chair or with an incorrect desk set-up can over time create stress.

HERO offices, Switzerland

What is ergonomic furniture in a healthy office environment?

Ergonomic office furniture can include ergonomically designed chairs, desks, keyboard trays, and monitor stands. These pieces of workplace design are intended to support the body and minimize the risk of musculoskeletal disorders.

By investing in ergonomic office furniture, small businesses and corporations alike can reduce the risk of injuries and promote employee health in general.

Understanding Active Design and How Standing Desks Impact Workplace Wellness

Active design is a concept that aims to create environments that encourage physical activity and movement. It incorporates things like stair use instead of elevators, standing desks and collaborative spaces instead of spending the entire day locked into a chair, as well as open-plan office layouts that encourage interaction and movement.

As part of a healthy office strategy for mental and physical wellbeing, active design can have a significant impact on workplace wellness. By incorporating movement into the workday, organizations can reduce the risk of health problems associated with sedentary behavior.

Sit stand desks, for example, can help reduce the risk of back pain, improve circulation, and promote alertness. By incorporating biophilic design, plenty of natural light and adequate ventilation into the workspace, organizations can create a more comfortable and healthy environment for employees.

Let’s be clear, by itself ergonomic furniture is not enough to promote health in a work environment, or not to a level that we would consider appropriate for any of our clients, for that we need a comprehensive approach to the working environment and employee health.

What to Consider When Choosing Ergonomic Office Furniture

When choosing ergonomic office furniture, there are several factors to consider. First, the specific needs of your employees. This includes their height, weight, and any pre-existing medical conditions that may affect their comfort levels in their immediate work environment.

It is also important to consider the type of work being performed. Some jobs may require more movement or flexibility than others. For example, employees who spend most of their day typing may benefit from an adjustable keyboard tray to reduce strain on their wrists.

Heavy artificial lighting and an unsuitable colour scheme in the office interiors will only add to their woes in such circumstances, going against the grain of enhanced creativity.

Another practical factor to consider is the adjustable height of the furniture. Ergonomic office furniture should be adjustable to accommodate different body types and postures. This will help ensure that every employee is comfortable and able to work efficiently, meaning increased productivity for the businesses in question and a happier team overall.

Benefits of Ergonomic Office Furniture with Lumbar Support for Workplace Wellbeing

Montoya coworking space, Barcelona, Spain

There are several benefits to investing in ergonomic office furniture for workplace wellbeing. First and foremost, ergonomic office furniture can reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders.

This includes things like back pain and neck pain. No matter how many healthy interior design interventions are made, if the office environments do not encourage creativity or reduce stress because the office worker is in physical discomfort all day, there is a fundamental problem in front of us.

Ergonomic office furniture will reduce discomfort and promote proper posture. When employees are comfortable, they are better able to focus on their work and complete tasks efficiently, especially if they also have the option to move from a sitting to a standing position thanks to a sit-stand desk, ideally one with an electric motor rather than manual wind.

In addition, ergonomic office furniture in an office building can improve employee morale. Throughout the corporate world, when employees feel that their employer cares about their wellbeing, they are more likely to perform well, stress levels will be lower and working life will be easier for all parties concerned.

Healthy office ergonomic furniture clearly isn’t the answer to every workplace woe… but it isn’t going to cause any complaints either and will surely be seen as a benefit by just about any team.

How Healthy Materials and Indoor Air Quality Impact Workplace Wellness

In addition to ergonomic design, it is important to consider the materials used in office furniture and the bigger picture of indoor environmental quality in office spaces, this is now a recognised threat to public health that can lead to long-term respiratory problems when not addressed upfront.

Many traditional office furniture materials contain VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, which can be harmful to human health.

Choosing furniture made from healthy materials can help reduce the risk of exposure to harmful chemicals. Materials like bamboo, cork, and recycled wood are environmentally friendly and non-toxic but for the majority of office furniture, we will be looking for trusted wellness oriented furniture manufacturers and individual products with specific certifications such as Healthy Product Declarations (HPDs) or Cradle2Cradle.

Indoor air quality is another important factor in workplace wellness. Poor indoor air quality can cause headaches, fatigue, and respiratory problems. By using natural materials and promoting good ventilation, organizations can create a healthier work environment for employees.

Some of our favourite healthy office furniture brands suitable for a wide range of office space designs are:

• Actiu, Spain: https://www.actiu.com/es/

• Benchmark, UK: https://benchmarkfurniture.com/sustainability/

• HumanScale, US: https://www.humanscale.com/about/csr/net-positive-products.cfm

• Herman Miller, US: https://www.hermanmiller.com/products/portfolios/thrive-ergonomic-portfolio/

• Flexspor, Spain: https://www.flexispot.es/escritorios-de-altura-ajustable.html

• Fully, USA: https://www.fully.com/

• Green Furniture Concept, Sweden: https://greenfc.com/us

Can Ikigai by Biofilico, Barcelona, Spain

Designing a Healthy Workspace with Ergonomic Furniture

Designing a healthy workspace involves more than just choosing the right furniture for physical health and comfort; it also requires selecting pieces with ergonomic features that support overall well-being.

As office design consultants, we also need to consider how to create a layout that promotes low levels of regular movement and encourages social interaction, even in an era when social distancing will remain in the public imagination for an entire generation to come.

Open floor plans and communal spaces can of course encourage collaboration and movement throughout the day but they can also come with their own unique issues such as noise pollution and reduced acoustic comfort - we didn’t say this was going to be simple!

Overall though, we try to encourage anyone responsible for managing their work environment to consider making standing desks and walking meetings an acceptable workplace policy, with actual exercise or stretching / yoga style breaks an additional, optional extra depending on the specific workplace culture in question.

Best Ergonomic Office Furniture for a Healthy Workplace

There are many different types of ergonomic office furniture to choose from that can be incorporated into a range of interior design styles for a healthy office, whether sustainable or biophilic design.

Some of the best options for a healthy workplace include:

• Adjustable standing desks, for example by Fully

• Ergonomic office chairs with lumbar support, for example by Herman Miller

• Adjustable keyboard trays, for example by Logitech

• Monitor stands to reduce eye strain, for example by Human Scale

• Footrests to reduce pressure on the feet, for example by Fully

When choosing ergonomic office furniture, it is especially important to consider the specific needs of your employees and the type of work being performed, there is simply no one size fits all solution in such situations, which is why you may need to bring in a workplace wellness design consultant to provide expert advice.

Ozana Business Club, Porto Montenegro by Biofilico

Coworking Spaces and Workplace Wellness - What to Look for in Shared Office Furniture

Coworking spaces are becoming increasingly popular as more people choose to work remotely and freelancers look for a place to work outside of their homes that has an interior design adapted to their professional life.

These shared workspaces can offer many benefits, including access to a community of like-minded individuals and a more flexible work environment, outside of tech company offices this is also where we see the most innovation in office design concepts and the prioritization of wellbeing in the work environment.

When choosing coworking spaces, it is important to consider the quality of the shared office furniture. The furniture should be ergonomic, including options like kneeling chairs, and adjustable to accommodate different body types and postures. It is also important to consider the cleanliness of the workspace and the quality of indoor air.

Conclusion and Next Steps for Revamping Your Workplace Wellness with Ergonomic Office Furniture

Investing in ergonomic office furniture is a key aspect of creating a healthy work environment. By choosing furniture that supports the human body and promotes movement, organizations can reduce the risk of injuries and improve productivity.

When choosing ergonomic office furniture, it is important to consider the specific needs of your employees, the type of work being performed, and the quality of materials and indoor air. By designing a healthy workspace that encourages movement and social interaction, organizations can create a more comfortable and productive work environment.

If you are interested in revamping your workplace wellness program and choosing ergonomic office furniture, contact us to discuss your workplace wellness consulting needs. We can provide guidance and recommendations for creating a healthier work environment for your employees.

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Further Reading

• The Best New Green & Healthy Office Buildings In Barcelona, Spain

• Visual Comfort In Office Buildings - The Key To Focus And Concentration

• 3D Interior Design Concept And How It Benefits Your Business

• Wellbeing Interiors Q&A With Matt Morley

• Sustainability Strategy & Sustainable Design Consultants

• Environmental Sustainability And Its Role In Interior Design

• Healthy Sustainable Furniture By Benchmark Uk

• Healthy Materials In Sustainable Interiors

• Healthy Materials & Plant-Based Leather

• Healthy Materials With Matter Of Stuff

• Posts In Biophilic Interiors

future-proof real estate with the smart building collective

wellbeing & sustainability in real estate & hospitality podcast

Welcome to episode 063 of the Green & Healthy Places podcast in which we discuss the themes of wellbeing and sustainability in real estate and hospitality.

In this episode we’re in Amsterdam talking to Nicholas White, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of the Smart Building Collective, a smart building and pro-tech business with its own certification framework focused on leveraging technology to measure how a real estate asset is performing. 

It covers key metrics such as the building usage, its performance, the building environment, health and safety, user behavior and connectivity.

We discuss how a smart tech is at the heart of both sustainable green buildings and healthy buildings nowadays, as well as playing a role in real estate ESG strategies. We also look at some of the more innovative real estate developments that he’s been a part of recently that give a sense of where the industry might be going in the future.

https://smartbuildingcollective.com/

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Matt

Nicholas, thanks for joining us on the show. Amazing to have you here. You're dialing in from Amsterdam where you’re based?

Nicholas

Yes, I am. Thanks for having me.

Matt

Listen, why don't we start with a bit of background to give the genesis of what you do with the Smart Building Collective. How did the whole thing start?

Nicholas

I personally came from the corporate sector doing large scale IT transformation projects, we were attacking these from the human perspective, really change management, trying to help people maximize the usage of of tech, and getting the most out of it. And what was always quite disheartening was the corporates would kind of roll over their people in that process, which was was quite painful to watch.

I thought there needs to be a better way, there needs to be a more engaging way, a healthier way to do these kinds of transformation programs.

So I left the corporate sector, and I teamed up with a woman by the name of Elizabeth Nelson, and she was doing research into burnout and human performance. I came more from the practical side of working with leadership teams and working in corporate space to make things better.

impact of the built environment on physical and mental health

Then we got this amazing opportunity with CBRE to do a research study on the impact of the built environment on people.

They built a ‘living lab’, the cost was probably about 250,000 euros to build then they started changing all of the things in the office environment, from the plants to the food, air and light over the course of 10 months.

They would do cognitive tests on people to see what the impact was. So the results were amazing. And then when we left, Elizabeth was asked to do it again, with booking.com. And we did a huge research study here in Amsterdam, that dictated their new headquarter plans, which was really quite cool.

Same thing happened, you know, it took a long time to build, expensive and the research results were amazing. The Living Lab collapsed after the research study was done, which looking back is completely logical that that happened.

Then we did it a third time, this time for GSK in the UK - GlaxoSmithKline. After that it was, okay, is there not a better way to do this? Where is there a standard? And this was around 2018 -2019. Where is there a standard that we can just plug into and do research more effectively, more efficiently and more collectively.

Developing a smart building standard for real estate

We came across the smart readiness indicator, which was the EU's approach to a smart standard but for the rest, nothing else existed. So we started to think about doing it ourselves. And that's kind of what we did. And we launched in 2020 The smart buildings certification.

green buildings, healthy buildings and smart buildings - whats the difference?

Matt

Okay, so let's go a level deeper, because I think a lot of people will have heard perhaps the term a green building, which is essentially a building that's designed to minimize its environmental impact, so externally oriented while a healthy building is a terminology more oriented internally thinking about the impact the building has on its occupants.

You just used the term smart building, it's in your brand. It's in your name to the core of what you do. So how does a smart building fit into that spectrum of green buildings on one side and healthy buildings on the other?

smart tech in buildings for real time management efficiencies

Nicholas

For us, you know, smart building is about technology, it's the digitization of real estate, it's an enabler. It's nothing more than that it shouldn't be a goal in itself to make a smart building, it's about the results that we're trying to achieve with that asset, and then working back to think about, okay, how can we make that more efficient and easier to do and more real time.

So it isn't essentially a tech component on both sides - on the healthy building scene, if you're not measuring it and monitoring it in the long term, you can't effectively justify the upfront investment that you put in, you need to keep an eye on what's happening.

You have sustainability, you have health and wellbeing in real estate. But there's also efficiency gains through the management and maintenance of your asset, creating a better user experience, which isn't just about the health of occupants, it's also about human performance and culture and community and building a way for people to connect with each other. And with the asset, you also have kind of new business models that are emerging from the enablement that tech provides.

I think we all have heard the pressure that the commercial real estate is under with the changing of work, flexible working and so on, with a smart building we have the ability to see what's working versus what's not working, I think you're in a much better position to make rational decisions as an owner or developer.

the smart building framework

You've created essentially your own framework that gives some structure to how you think about smart buildings. I think that's such an important piece of of how you communicate your position and the your, let's say, view of the real estate industry.

So it's clearly at the core of what you're about, perhaps you could just give us a quick overview of those component parts that make up your framework.

Nicholas

Yeah, sure. So the smart building certification, where we always are saying is founded in research, and practice, and we're constantly optimizing it with our community, we actually made a change from the smart building certification to the smart building Collective, we did that last year in August. And the reason for that is that as we were certifying buildings, we see that not a single one of them is similar. They're all completely different.

So the certification really is being informed by the collective, the smartest buildings we find and the smartest solutions we find are informing the benchmark and constantly changing it. So in a way, you can start to think about it as a bit of a web 3.0 approach to certification in the sense that it is dynamic, and it is moving and and we're learning as we go.

But in essence, the certification that we have created, starts with the results, right? Like what are we actually trying to do with these assets? And then works back to the technology of how do we get to that result. And that result is broken into a number of different modules within the certification.

Smart building usage data, performance and indoor environment

So the first module is building usage, you know, how does one have kind of overview and control over how the assets are being utilized - from occupancy, to how amenities are being used, these types of things.

What kind of technology do you have in place to understand how your asset is being used, the next module is building performance, then you can really think about your sustainability aspects, your energy consumption, your water consumption, how the asset is actually performing against the goals and against the promise.

We have a module on building environment, which is thinking more about your health and well being. And it's really about your indoor environment being sound, light, indoor air quality, these types of things.

How do we use technology to make sure that the environment is healthy and in state for people to use it in a good way. We also have a module on safety and security, of course, which is both physical security, but also digital security. As you put more smart building more technology into a building, we need to keep it safe, we need to keep the cybersecurity at the forefront. But it's also about physical security and Disaster Mitigation.

The last module is user behavior and collaboration. So how can people find each other? How can they interact with the building? How does community get created?

Integrative design in smart buildings

And then all of those modules are actually brought together by a module we call integrative design, which is how can we actually with the least amount of technology, maximize the value in the results and all of those different areas? Instead of having a technology for each piece? How can we make sure that the technology becomes an aspect that adds value to all those different areas?

governance and real estate esg in smart buildings

One of the things that really sets us apart is we have a huge emphasis on governance, process, access to data, do the right people have access to the data to do something with it? And is the organization structured in a way that actually can do it? Because I think, you know, a smart building without actually using that data is you could argue, is that smart?

Matt

Perhaps for anyone who's not aware of some of the intricacies of how that works, then you're effectively looking at the facilities management, the building management company that's looking after the building, we're talking a fairly large scale, say mixed use or office development on behalf of the tenant or on behalf of effectively behind that the investor? Or is it the tenant themselves who has some role and wants access to that needs to be involved.

Nicholas

Well, you know, ideally, it's a communal effort, the whole idea is to break down silos and to be working together, to forge better relationships between the owner, property manager, tenants and all the different suppliers that are in there. I think where the industry is, right now, which is challenging is that all of those things are being done in silo, every single one of those different stakeholders is dealing with their piece of the puzzle, which in the end, makes it quite a quite challenging.

Ideally the stakeholder map would be doing this together. But what we see in practice is that it's coming from different perspectives, like we will do a certification for a tenant that is interested in understanding what their building is capable of doing for them from a tenant perspective, and they can use it to then work with the landlord to say, ‘hey, from my ESG perspective, I need to have better energy consumption or at least better insight into my energy consumption’, these types of things.

We also do it from a building owner perspective that says, ‘Hey, I've laid in an incredible tech stack for my potential tenants and my property managers. How can we help them?’ So with with your certification level, and with your communication and your training, how can I improve it? How can I make it better?

real estate ESG and the role of smart technology in buildings

Matt

It's tapping into this rising tide around awareness of ESG. I see it coming from above in terms of pension funds and investment groups coming in, then applying pressure on the investors or the building owners, but also from below, sometimes from the employees themselves, and oftentimes from tenants of the building.

Nicholas

Yeah, and you know, where we're at right now is just meeting people where they are, right, like, we have some of the most, you know, the smartest developers in the world, who, on one side, want to help tell the world that they've created something really spectacular, and something really special.

At the other side, they want to say, Okay, where are my holes? Where are my gaps? What am I not thinking about yet, so that I can, you know, push push the envelope for, for this development, or my next development? And then you have people who are like, well, what is smart? Like, how do I even how do I even start?

How do I even where do I begin, and that was one of the main reasons we pivoted to the smart building Collective is that, you know, we're not here to say, this is how you build a smart building, the collective is informing this certification, and then there's a ton of people in this community that are there to help, you know, from all different walks of life, but different culture different, you know, views, different ways of supporting, and so you can find the solution when you when you're looking for it.

size and scale in smart building certification projects

What is the minimum size that you're noticing in the market, in terms of buildings, and developers coming to you with an interest in in going deeper into this, you know, oftentimes, you might see smaller developers, smaller building owners, smaller tenants who have increasingly aware of this ESG angle and want to get into it, and then look at the breadth of a big healthy building certification such as WELL for example and just even to go for one or two elements of that looks like a big undertaking. We don't have the manpower, we don't have the budget? How does smart fit in? Is there a bespoke approach that one can adopt, as you say, just to kind of get started? Or is it all or nothing? And therefore, is it a certain size of building that makes more sense?

Nicholas

No, it's definitely not all or nothing, it's, start, wherever you are, start small, start getting a little bit more control in different areas. And, and, you know, what's so exciting about the benchmark system that we've created is, is that it's, it's moving, you know, it's rolling, but it's also applicable to whichever asset class whatever size, you know, whatever type of property in whatever country, because what we what we are doing is actually starting to build some benchmarks, right.

So if you are a building of 5000 square meters, which is, you know, not that big. Let's compare you to other 5000 square meter buildings. And we get the we get the question, you know, should I have a user wrap? Well, it depends, you know, it depends on the context that depends on what you're trying to do. It depends on the value cases you're after, what are you trying to accomplish with your property. And in that sense, you should really be compared to like minded buildings, and not to, you know, all of them.

Smart app technology in building management

So a user app would then be a smartphone integrated user face where you can see what's going on around you in the building in terms of key data points and metrics, from air quality to light usage and electricity usage. Is that essentially what it does?

Nicholas

Yeah, they come in all different shapes and sizes. A lot of user apps focus on the community aspects of a building, you know, what kind of workshops are happening today? What kind of events? What run happening this afternoon with a group of people. Some of them go beyond the building itself and connect you to the community in the smart city space, you know, what's going on in the neighborhood. But you also see them as being utilitarian where they start to become the key to doors or the light switches.

To get the utilization up of those apps, you start with the utility piece, if you can't open the door without it, then you're going to start using that app. And then growing into that community aspect, we also see the app becoming kind of the financial backbone of the building that it manages everything from room booking to amenity usage.

So sky's the limit as to what you can do with that functionality. That's a big one.

peer reviewed smart building certification and accredited professionals

And around the the actual smart building certification process itself and your accredited professionals or your “APs"“, how does that network function?

Nicholas

Our certification comes from the world of academics. So when you research and you write a publishable paper, it always gets peer reviewed. A scientific paper doesn't get published in the market until it's been peer reviewed. So we thought, you know, Shouldn't that be how we assess buildings? So we built a peer review model, where you have independent assessors who are looking at this building, and those assessors come from different cultures different, you know, parts of the world, and they look at your building. And then what we have in the certification process is we have quantitative data, and we have qualitative data. The quantitative data is very much based on, you know, do you have the technology?

Do you have the functionality, the coverage, you know, is it there, and that's quite black or white, right? It's either there or it's not there. The qualitative data is much more the grays that are going on in buildings, right? It's like your governance structure. How are you organizing yourself as a building, your integrative design?

You know, how did you decide to build your smart building? Did you use a one massive supplier for the whole tech stack? That's, you know, really been around for 30-40 years? Or did you use a bunch of startups and scale ups and have them work? Together? Right? There's no kind of wrong answer there.

You just make different decisions for different reason. And so there's definitely a qualitative piece that needs to be taken into consideration of a this is what we see in buildings, this is the pros, this is the cons. Maybe this is something you should think about, you know, moving forward.

And that peer review model has been hugely successful in the sense that these assessors get to, you know, assess buildings all around the world, and they get to see the different cultures and the different ways that they're built. And it's become a really, really incredible community of people who not only are working together daily to find good solutions for their own work, but but also helping inform the collective to improve this certification improve what we do.

Matt

Is there a particular building or case study that you've been involved in that could be representative of where things are going or where things are at today in terms of smart building excellence?

a leading example of a smart building

Nicholas

One that we just certified that is amazing is the Hausmann’s Hus in Oslo. It's a family office that built this incredible building from an altruistic perspective, they said, it's not about building a smart building, it's about building the best building we possibly can. And it just happens to be digital.

They created these smart grids throughout the building, which allows them to configure the building any way that they want, for however big or small a tenant would be, and give that space its own smart infrastructure, its own energy metering, its own light metering, completely self contained. A traditional building will take the energy of the building and divide it by the amount of square meters, and send a bill to the tenant based on that calculation.

This is a completely more sophisticated way to do it. And then it's just the most beautiful high quality building. They also have open, transparent contracts with their suppliers, where they say, we're gonna guarantee you your margin, but we're going to discuss the cost. And they originally thought that the budget of the smart building was going to be significantly higher, because of all this smart tech but by managing it in an open and transparent way with their suppliers, they've actually been able to create a building that's the same cost, which I think is something we all need to learn from. It makes good business sense.

Matt

Where do you see your growth over the next three to five years?

Nicholas

I think part of our role is that we need to get these success stories and these stories out. We need to write these cases, and we need to make them quantified, and share how impact is being made. I think we're gonna get to this point of - what is the right level of technology for buildings, and what's too far? The emergence of having buildings be larger than themselves, I guess, being part of a community and not just stand alone.

buildings become part of a community

We’ll also see that with co-working spaces and you know, community spaces, these kinds of things. I think that's going to be a huge component in the future. We just certified a building in in Finland that has its own geothermal energy plant that they built under the building. And it is now feeding the energy to the entire grid around that building. There's something to be said about being a global citizen with your project!

I have the strong belief that out of challenging times, which the commercial real estate is definitely in right now, comes some incredible opportunities. And I think the emergence of cultural, experiential type places, is emerging. I'll be very curious to see how that evolves as it becomes a completely different asset class, not a museum, not a concert hall, not an office or a hotel but something new.

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FURTHE READING:

• World Green Building Council Health Wellbeing Framework

Benefits of Biophilic Design on Cognitive Performance in the workplace

HERO natural foods, Swiss headquarters - biophilic design by Biofilico

Firstly, what is biophilic design anyway?

Biophilic design is a way to integrate nature into the built environment, at building and interiors level. By combining elements of both sustainability and wellbeing, biophilic design is aligned with People and Planet, with green building standards as well as healthy building standards.

By bringing the outside world in, we can create spaces that are aligned with our evolutionary past, while respecting and protecting the environment and promoting human health and happiness.

Biophilic design in offices

Utilizing biophilic design in office and working environments can have tangible benefits on the mental wellbeing of all personnel by increasing productivity, creativity and overall morale. The basic idea of biophilic design centers around the physical, emotional, and cognitive wellbeing benefits of multi-sensory connections with nature.

The main idea behind bringing biophilic design into an indoor environment, (whether it be work or residential) is applying architectural and interior concepts that recall or reflect the natural world. This design strategy brings us in touch with human biology and our deep connection to nature that is often neglected in dense urban contexts today.

leveraging The elements in biophilic design - light

One possible interpretation of this concept when designing a biophilic design space comes from harnessing the four elements: fire, earth, air and water. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6491965/#B69 )

The idea of using fire can be seen through UV light and heat therapy. The right amount of lighting can help align the body’s circadian rhythm by mediating shifts in light exposure that modify duration of nocturnal melatonin production (the hormone that promotes sleep).

This is important because by pushing melatonin production to sleeping hours, people are more awake and energized throughout the day. Light exposure also has important implications for serotonin production: the happy hormone.

Activation of serotonergic neurons helps regulate brain development and function. Irregularities in these neurons are associated with many psychiatric disorders (such as depression and anxiety) that are often seen developing amongst individuals working typical 9-5 jobs. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6405415/ )

A general increase in alertness can be attributed to a light source that mimics the sun because of the hormonal production it promotes in the brain so for environments where performance and efficiency are required, it would be of use to have lighting that most resembles nature and can support these biological processes. 

leveraging The elements in biophilic design - plants & earth

The next element, earth, really relies on innate biological processes and connecting us to nature. Getting people away from urbanized workspaces by including plants, natural lighting and other natural elements has been proven to increase positive feelings, manage heart rate and control stress.

Forest bathing is a practice of “taking in the forest” to inspire a reconnection to the earth (see our article on this subject here). Practices like forest bathing that involve multi-sensory immersion in deep nature have been shown to significantly increase scores of positive feelings while significantly decreasing scores of negative feelings after stimuli compared with the urban stimuli. (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0033350610003203 ).

Also, heart rate analysis indicated that the forest environment significantly increased parasympathetic (restores body’s sense of calm) nervous activity and significantly suppressed sympathetic (activates fight or flight) activity of participants compared with the urban environment.

Alongside this decrease of nervous energy throughout the body there is an important decrease in cortisol levels. Cortisol is a hormone that plays an important role in; helping respond to stress, fighting infection, regulating blood sugar, maintaining blood pressure, regulating metabolism.

Elevated cortisol levels are associated with less perceived control which means, more difficulty paying attention to the task at hand. Hypothesized disturbance in circadian rhythm (relating to cortisol production) needs further investigation but is linked to a change. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8882096/ ). 

Air goes along with the idea of using plants in a working environment because of the clean air benefits they provide. The importance of this element relies on a lack of pollution in the surrounding environment (https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13181-011-0203-1 ).

Emerging preclinical evidence suggests that air pollution may induce oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, microglial activation, and cerebrovascular dysfunction, while potentially altering the blood–brain barrier.

Oxidative stress (https://www.healthline.com/health/oxidative-stress#:~:text=Oxidative%20stress%20is%20an%20imbalance,easily%20react%20with%20other%20molecules. ) is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants that can have a chain reaction in the body. This can cause large chemical reactions in your body that can either be beneficial of harmful.

Neuroinflammation refers to the process of the brain’s immune system response. This is important to keep in check because too much inflammation, like among most things, means brain disease.

Microglia are the macrophages of the central nervous system that play a keep role in brain development so microglial activation are important in coordinating “a plan of attack” when disease is sensed in the brain. But if this are activated when not needed, they can potentially cause more harm than good. 

Cerebrovascular dysfunction just refers to insufficiencies of blood supply to the brain that result in a multitude of issues. The importance of having fresh, clean air helps to prevent from many diseases and can be utilized in a working environment with the inclusion of plants or air filters or things alike. 

leveraging The elements in biophilic design - water

The last element, water, is one that can prove a little more difficult to incorporate into an everyday workspace. The main therapies involving water are things like hydrotherapy and balneotherapy. Hydrotherapy is just using water in any form as a form of noninvasive treatment while balneotherapy is the practice of bathing in minerals and other additives and is used more particularly in spas and pools for arthritis support.

Hydrotherapy reduces pain/stress through easing muscle tension with water support and also promoting the release of endorphins. (https://connecthealth.org.au/enews/why-water-works-4-hydrotherapy-health-benefits/#:~:text=Warm%20water%20hydrotherapy%20has%20been,to%20further%20reduce%20muscle%20soreness ) Endorphins are the hormones released when your body feels pain or stress.

They act as messengers from the brain to the rest of the body to let it know something isn’t right and to reduce pain, relieve stress therefore, improving mood. Hydrotherapy also helps boost immunity by increasing circulation of white blood cells that allows lymph (immune system fluid that helps get rid of waste) to better work and move around body.

While not all office spaces are equipped to have saunas or pools clearly(!), having water accessible in an office yields similar results. (https://solaramentalhealth.com/can-drinking-enough-water-help-my-depression-and-anxiety/#:~:text=Water%20has%20been%20shown%20to,can%20create%20feelings%20of%20relaxation. )

Not only is it important to provide employees with a drinkable water source for hydration, it may also be of use to implement water features within the interior design of a workplace too. (https://www.workdesign.com/2012/12/pros-and-cons-of-workplace-water-features/ )

The steady movement of a water feature provides for a natural and calming sound source as well as a soothing visual that keeps people in tune with nature. The flow of water can also help to mask the noise of a busy office environment while providing visual respite from screens.

Something such as a water fountain or a water cooler often becomes a place of interaction among workers and can increase personal relationships through the act of gathering. Something important to keep in mind, however, is that water features could be distracting for some because of the same beneficial reasons laid out above: too noisy, easy to stare at for hours or prompting people to gather and chat rather than work.

The benefits of water in an office space go far passed the obvious necessities and can spark an important conversation about how to incorporate this element to improve employee performance.

One of the most important concepts when creating an optimal working environment is connecting back to nature. An easy way to do this can be through using techniques outlined by the four elements: fire, earth, air and water.

Further reading:

• Benefits of healthy coworking offices

Best Examples of Biophilic Design Office: Sustainable Interior — Biofilico Wellness Interiors

best examples of Biophilic design in offices

Benefits of biophilia in a sustainable office interior

Biophilia is deep rooted within the human consciousness. A positive psychological affiliation with nature is a key element of human happiness that is all too often neglected in buildings and interiors today but the recent boom in biophilic design, sustainable interiorswellbeing design is redressing the situation.

Biophilic design elements can have a positive impact on employees’ physical and mental health. Incorporating biophilic design into the office environment can significantly enhance employee well-being and productivity. The use of natural elements, natural lighting, and greenery improves air quality, reduces stress, boosts happiness, and increases relaxation, ultimately leading to higher levels of productivity and job satisfaction.

When designing an office space or workspace, from our perspective as biophilic design consultants it is fundamental to create an interior in which occupant wellbeing is maximized while also minimizing environmental impact - a magic combination made possible by biophilic design.

Why is this important? The best office designs provide a way to increase employee happiness and productivity, reduce anxiety in the workplace and attract then retain top talent while respecting the planet around us - it should not be ‘people first, planet later’, or vice versa.

Here we review some recently completed or soon-to-be-completed examples of biophilic design and sustainable interior design offices from around the world that have caught our attention for their aesthetics, creativity and evidence-based approach that pushes the boundaries well beyond a plant wall and some desk plants…! Read on for more office design ideas.

• Citibank Wealth Management offices, Singapore

• Shui On WorkX,* Shanghai by M Moser & Associates*

• Welcome, Milano* by Kengo Kuma Architects for real estate developer Europa Risorse*

• Fosbury & Sons Harmony Coworking, Antwerp, Belgium

• Uncommon Coworking Holborn, London, UK

• Andyrahman Architect Office, East Java, Indonesia

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CitiBank Wealth Hub, Private Wealth Management Offices, Singapore

Designed by Singapore-based Ministry of Design, the increasingly famous biophilic interior designers, the CitiBank Wealth Hub looks more akin to a Silicon Valley tech giant’s headquarters than a banking space… but then this is Singapore, the garden city, and CitiBank clearly wanted to make a statement.

The result is a rare blend of banking and biophilia, with dense indoor landscaping that breaks up the double-height loft-like space with expansive views of the city skyline and abundant natural light to keep the indoor forest flourishing.

Rather than creating internal walls, the main space is peppered with separate meeting pods for one-on-one client meetings, each surrounded by an individual soil bed packed with lush foliage that both purifies the air and provides additional privacy, whilst also helping to boost mood and reduce anxiety. For more on the benefits of biophilia, see here.

A deliberately sumptuous range of materials choices from reception through to the ‘feature’ bar’ and office areas ensures that the private banking clients feel at ease. We see plenty of prestigious marbles, wood cladding, ergonomic furniture, subtle overhead lighting and yet more indoor planter boxes loaded with greenery.

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Shui On WorkX - biophilic offices by M Moser associates, Shanghai

As you walk through the front doors of the Shui On WorkX realistate office located in Shanghai, the presence of biophilia is immediately prominent.

Plants line a welcoming corridor and the large design of a sun illuminates an otherwise drab sidewalk.

Biophilic design fills each and every corner of the large building located deep within the industrialized, busy urban environment of Shanghai.

The reception protrudes down from the ceiling with diverse plants falling from a curvilinear, organic form. Living walls are incorporated to bring nature into the workspace, enhancing well-being and encouraging interaction among employees.

A natural color scheme fills each room with a pallet of greens, tan-browns, and stone-grays. It’s illuminated by walls of large windows filling the space with natural light. This light gives the vegetation a perfect place to flourish. The office is not only lined with small house plants, but entire living trees and moss floors.

Biophilic interior design elements embellish the office with leaf shaped lamps, stump shaped stools, large boulders, and a digital waterfall cascading down from a high ceiling. The elements of nature are brought into the interior space with sophistication and intention creating a masterful, biophilic space.

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Welcome, Milano by kengo kuma associates - the biophilic office of the future

We have watched the development of this ambitious biophilic office park development by the Milano-based real estate developer Seagreen with great interest, not just for its commitment to nature but also for the role of the lead architects, Kengo Kuma Associates, without doubt one of the most consistently impressive design firms in operation today and increasingly famous sustainable interior designers. This project aims to seamlessly integrate the natural world into the built environment, creating a harmonious and sustainable office space.

Made up of 43,500m2 of healthybiophilic offices, 2700m2 of co-working space, 1100m2 of meeting spaces, 2000m2 of food & beverage spaces and 1800m2 of commercial spaces, it looks set to make a tangible impact on Milano’s office landscape.

Solar panels on the rooftop, pocket parks and open-air courtyards, terrace greenery and a 360m2 bioclimatic greenhouse will all ensure a constant connection between the office-worker and nature within the built environment.

Where the Welcome project truly distinguishes itself is in making the connection between biophilia, sustainability and real estate ESG objectives - it may seem obvious but a building that goes out of its way to integrate nature through its architecture and interiors, only to harm nature by using materials that harm the planet in their extraction, manufacturing or transportation to the site would make very little sense at all.

As such, the project espouses both ‘organic architecture’ and people-centric design.

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Biophilic interiors with natural elements at Fosbury & Sons Harmony Coworking, Antwerp, Belgium

In Antwerp, Belgium, a modernist cathedral was stripped down to its concrete bones and rebirthed into what we believe to be an aesthetic marvel of an office that displays subtle influences from the world of biophilic design.

Is it 100%, declaredly nature-inspired? Probably not but it perhaps represents how such organic interior design cues have become a part of our interior design canon in recent years.

Towering six meter high windows line the building illuminating the main, open workspace. Outside of these windows, there is a natural view of King Albert Park - in green and healthy building standards such as the WELL certification and LEED green building standard such views onto nature are rewarded with credits in the final scorecard for their restorative powers on potentially anxious, stressed out office workers.

Areas designed for different settings of productivity, relaxation, and collaboration are incorporated to make the space a healthy office design that is versatile for its patrons. Most furniture is wooden and wooden artworks suspended from the ceiling bring natural elements into the space, helping to frame the experience from floor to ceiling.

The use of natural materials, including sustainable wood and indoor plant walls, further enhances the biophilic design of the Fosbury & Sons Harmony Coworking space.

A large amount of the furniture is vintage making it inherently sustainable. Biophilic elements such as lush greenery, oval shaped windows, and leafless branches adorn the environment.

Overall this a prime example of how an existing building can be diligently restored and converted into a design-oriented coworking environment that gently, almost imperceptibly brings the outdoor space in to create a calm, uplifting environment for productivity. Chapeaux Fosbury & Sons!

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Biophilia at Uncommon Coworking Holborn, London, UK

Uncommon adopted biophilic design into their DNA early on and have consistently delivered interior spaces that overflow with organic design details and living plants - their forthcoming site in central London’s Holborn district looks set to push the boundaries even further in that direction.

We previously interviewed Uncommon’s CEO for our Green & Healthy Places podcast -listen to that episode here.

Scheduled to open in 2023. Located just outside the city bustle of London, the center is sustainably designed for its members to work and thrive within.

The green building, sustainable design has declared three main objectives: Reduce their emissions, achieve net zero, and be carbon negative.

If these objectives are achieved, the coworking space would be one of the first of its kind to achieve a positive environmental impact.

The execution of these plans to realistically obtain their goals is a holistic strategy of the reduction of waste, use, and purchase. Waste reduction includes proper and safe disposal alongside the maximization of reuse and recycling. Use reduction will be executed through regulated energy and water usage.

Finally, purchase reduction will be minimized through expending fewer consumables and purchasing sustainable consumables to ensure a reduction of single use items.

The Holborn coworking environment will be a biophillic space filled with an abundance of plants from floor to ceiling that is created with organic, environmentally friendly materials, and filled with sustainable items. It is the sustainable, biophillic coworking space of the future. The biophilic design also aims to improve air quality by purifying the air, reducing indoor pollutants, and controlling humidity, which contributes to better physical health and mental well-being for its members.

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Andyrahman Architect Office, Indonesia - an example of biophilic office design

In Sidoarjo, Indonesia an architecture office was created with the wellness of their employees as the top priority. The biophilic office design was brought to life with nature around every corner.

The Andyrahman Architect Office also features green walls, adding a dynamic and inviting element to the workspace.

A living garden filled with plants ranging from grasses to hard wood trees is centered within the first floor of the structure creating a view of greenery for all.

Alongside this, a koi pond gurgles with the natural sounds of flowing water. On the second floor of the building resides a movable, breathing wall.

Using a local weaving technique, the bamboo walls allows for the transparency of light and air. It can be opened completely to the outside world.

This truly biophilic office gives workers nooks of relaxation and community such as the rooftop social area for employees to engage in conversation and relaxation in the open air.

Summary

Through these diverse examples of office biophilic design, we can see the tangible aspects of biophilia at work, visually, but we have also tried to highlight the intangible psycho-emotional responses these environments evoke in building occupants. the intangible is paramount.

The nature of biophillic office design is founded within the happiness and wellbeing of those who spend time there, while also respecting the environment with sustainable materials. Ultimately, such tangible connections with nature boost quality of life and work.

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Further Reading

• healthy coworking offices

• home office desk and ergonomic furniture

• What Are Sustainable Office Buildings?

• The Best New Green & Healthy Office Buildings In Barcelona, Spain

• Sustainability Strategy & Sustainable Design Consultants

• Sustainable Office Space - Make Your Office More Eco-Friendly

• What Are The Benefits Of Healthy Coworking Space Designs?

• Coworking Space Design - A Secret To Productive Coworking Space

• A Guide To Biophilic Design In Offices & Coworking Spaces

• Posts Tagged Sustainable Design

• Biophilic Design For People, Planet And Profit

• Benefits Of Biophilic Design On Cognitive Performance In The Workplace

• Nature In The Office Workplace

• Benefits Of Biophilic Design - Why Is It Good For You?

• Free E-Book: Benefits Of Biophilic Design In Offices & Coworking Spaces

• Becoming A Biophilic Design And Healthy Building Consultant

• An Introduction To Biophilic Design - Nature, Wellbeing And Sustainability

• About Us

• What Are Biophilia And Biophilic Design?

• Biophilic Design In The Well Building Standard

• Best Architecture Studios For Biophilic Design

• 5 Best Examples Of Biophilic Design

• Best Examples Of Biophilic Commercial Developments

• Wellness Interior Design Consultants

• Homepage

• A Guide To Workplace Wellbeing Design

• How To Know If Your Workplace Fits The Wellness Office Concept

• Furniture In Workplace Wellness Interior Design: The Ultimate Guide To Choosing Ergonomic Office Furniture

• Sustainable Design Consultants

• An Introduction To Biophilic Design In Sustainable Buildings

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Ventilation and healthy building design

indoor air quality / healthy building certification / ventilation rates / healthy indoor environment / consultants

kaiterra indoor air quality monitor

What is ventilation in a healthy building plan?

There has never been a more urgent time to consider an enhanced ventilation strategy as part of a healthy indoor environment. Why does this ventilation matter and what can landlords, developers and workplaces do about it?

‘Ventilation’ describes the cyclical process of supplying outdoor air and removing the existing indoor air through either natural or mechanical methods. 

Natural ventilation in a healthy building strategy aims to introduce outdoor air into a space thanks to operable windows, doorways and ceiling vents for example, without relying on electricity. This approach typically benefits from an accompanying CO2 monitor plan to ensure healthy indoor air at all times.

Mechanical ventilation for a healthy indoor environment meanwhile does the same albeit in a far more calculated and energy intensive manner via a powered system of vents, piping, filters and fans.

Mechanical systems should ideally be designed with the anticipated occupant numbers and type of activity in mind; for example a busy gym full of cardio machines will require a different ventilation rate than a boardroom used for occasional meetings.

A mixed or hybrid ventilation model would deploy a combination of both healthy building strategies but in all three cases the ultimate purpose remains the same - to increase occupant comfort and create a healthy indoor environment by removing dust and particulates, unpleasant odors, CO2 and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) that off-gas from toxic materials in furniture, fittings and adhesives.

Ventilation and indoor air quality for workplace wellness

From a workplace wellness perspective, adequate ventilation rates are fundamental to ensuring healthy indoor air that in turn plays a role in promoting cognitive function and reducing the transmission of viruses, amongst other things.  

Ventilation in healthy building certifications

It is also worth noting that ventilation rates are often designated by regional codes, as well as healthy building certifications such as the USGBC’s LEED, BREEAM and WELL. This means a healthy building consultant and/or MEP engineer can be a helpful resource when creating and implementing a comprehensive wellbeing interiors or workplace wellness strategy. 

Finally, for home upgrade to indoor air, there is also the option of a standalone air purifier such as those made by Dyson for smaller spaces (25m2-50m2 let’s say). These are limited in impact compared to a mechanical system but still represent a viable option in certain circumstances, for example in a bedroom for a sleeper with asthma or allergies.

Healthy indoor environments and air filtration

Filtration is a key aspect of ventilation, this is the process of removing potentially harmful particulates from the outside air intake before that air is sent into the building interiors. 

Air filtration is done via increasingly advanced filters in the ventilation system, meaning this is an area where we as healthy building consultants can make a tangible difference simply by encouraging an MEP Manager or consultant engineer to upgrade the filter, for example.

A High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter removes dust, mold, pollen and particulates. The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) is a 1-20 scale that measures the effectiveness of these filters and is commonly mentioned in building certification systems as an indication of enhanced indoor air quality. 

A MERV 13 or above filter is now seen as the gold standard - with local equivalents applicable - the higher the number the greater the removal of small particles from the air. Note that all filters require regular maintenance and upkeep as part of an ongoing healthy building strategy delivered by facilities management.

In contemporary buildings, standard practice is to use mechanical ventilation with a filtration system but natural ventilation and other more advanced strategies can be used to reduce energy use in certain specific locations and with adequate planning by the engineers and architecture team. Simply opening a lot of windows and hoping for the best is not a healthy indoor air strategy!

UV light for enhanced indoor air quality

Anti-bacterial ultraviolet (UV) light systems can be incorporated into an indoor air management plan to reduce the risk of harmful organisms lingering in the indoor air. This system can be used in tandem with other ventilation systems or on its own, and uses UV light to kill airborne pathogens. 

Using UV light systems to enhance the indoor air quality is especially relevant in spaces with high occupant densities such as restaurants, in places where occupants are especially vulnerable such as hospitals, or in health clubs and gyms where optimizing the health of members is a priority.

RESET Air certification process

Healthy Building Certification System Benchmarks and Guidelines

There are several guidelines to help determine the ventilation rates for appropriate indoor air quality levels. ASHRAE Standard 62.1 designates “Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality” and is used as an industry benchmark as a minimum value, rather than a target to aim for. 

As is often the case when it comes to consulting for healthy buildings and healthy indoor environments, we are in fact looking to go beyond the bare minimums to achieve excellence, wherever possible.

In addition to the ASHRAE standard, certification systems such as LEED and WELL include numerous credits denoting indoor air quality and ventilation guidelines. 

In the LEED standard, for example, a MERV value of 13 or higher contributes to the “Enhanced Indoor Air Quality Strategies” credit. In the WELL standard ‘Air Filtration credit’, different MERV values are recommended based on the average outdoor air quality levels.

In addition, both the LEED and WELL standards denote the importance of maintaining proper air quality throughout the construction, pre-occupancy and occupancy phases. 

Strategies such as a full flush-out (the elimination of indoor air pollutants that were accumulated during the construction phase through the introduction of outdoor air), replacement of air filters pre-occupancy and ongoing indoor air quality testing are all recommended strategies to ensure enduring air quality levels.

The guidelines and recommendations for the LEED standard are present within the Indoor Environmental Quality credit category, while WELL’s reside within the Air concept.

The LEED and WELL standards focus on different things—LEED places emphasis on the environmental impacts of the built environment, while WELL focuses on the human health and wellbeing side of the built environment. 

Both standards overlap closely in the arena of indoor air quality, ventilation, and filtration however, reflecting the importance of this aspect for a healthy indoor environment and minimizing a building’s environmental impact.

Indoor Air Quality Monitors as part of a healthy building plan

In many green building certification systems, constant monitoring of indoor air quality is a key strategy. Indoor air quality can range greatly throughout the day depending on factors such as outdoor air quality and interior pollution sources, which can all affect what the optimal ventilation rates should be to maintain healthy conditions.

RESET Air advocates for commercial grade air quality monitors connected to the cloud as a way to monitor and assess indoor air quality factors such as airborne particles, temperature, humidity and CO2. Constant monitoring provides a level of transparency and insight that can in turn help to reduce wasted energy costs, not just make for a healthy indoor environment.

See Kaiterra here https://www.kaiterra.com/en/index/

Indoor Air Quality and Ventilation

Proper ventilation and HVAC filtration systems are important components of a healthy indoor air quality plan however due consideration should also be given to additional factors, such as healthy materials, outdoor air quality, green cleaning policies, entryway systems (walk-off mats) and pest management protocols.

If consistently delivered, suitable ventilation rates and healthy indoor air quality supports occupant wellbeing, promotes concentration and productivity, helps improve attention and memory, and can in reduce the possible spreading of viruses indoors. 

A cohesive, joined-up indoor environmental quality plan is required that may well involve some combination of healthy building consultants, architects, interior designers, mechanical engineers and facilities management. 

Sources:

Allen, Joseph. “The 9 Foundations of a Healthy Building.” For Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, https://forhealth.org/9_Foundations_of_a_Healthy_Building.February_2017.pdf. 

“Upper-Room Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation (UVGI).” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 9 Apr. 2021, https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/ventilation/uvgi.html. 

company culture and the healthy workplace

How to create a corporate culture geared for a healthy workplace or healthy coworking office

Creating a healthy workplace or healthy co-working community culture

It can be hard to draw general conclusions about the state of workplace culture at a country level or indeed industry because ultimately it comes down to brand culture above all else.

Each organization and its leaders have the power to create their own distinct way of working, perhaps rallying behind a visionary mission statement for example, or defining a set of values designed to guide staff towards some higher goal.

That said, there is a tangible sense that Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) principles are now taking hold like never before and, in some cases, are already well embedded in the workplace experience.

a return to the office post-Covid

Post-Covid we are seeing a range of different approaches to the return to the office, some hard-driving bosses insist on 100% staff presence, full time at their desks, while others have recognised that the hybrid model is here to stay.

Creative industries and start-ups, as well as other more youthful corporate cultures have been early adopters of new approaches to both working from home and flexible hours.

The role of ESG in worker wellbeing

Bigger picture, we’re seeing a real surge in interest in connecting the indoor office environments with Environmental, Social & Governance strategy. In other words, placing People and worker wellbeing closer to the centre of a company wide ESG plan.

So whereas before there was more pressure from below, there is now almost a perfect storm whereby investment groups, VCs and pension funds want to see a plan in place for a transition to a more ESG-aligned business, if it wasn’t there already. This is partly to future-proof their investments in business, partly in a response to the events of the past two years.

On the other sie, HR teams are rightly pushing for a healthier work environment, from indoor air quality, to lighting, nutrition, access to nature, acoustics plannings and so on.

If there is a silver lining to the massive shake-up the world of work has been through during Covid, it is the fertile soil it has left behind for playing catch-up in offices that were stuck in the 1980s without any worker wellness priorities in place.

Evaluating worker wellbeing in the workplace

In term of how we put numbers on that, it's typically a combination of qualitative and quantitative data, so we may combine indoor air quality monitors allowing for a deep dive analysis in real time of exactly what's going on around the workplace at any given time for example with a workplace satisfaction survey.

Biophilic design & healthy design in the office

The benefits of biophilic and healthy design in the workplace might include improving the purity of the indoor air with enhanced ventilation filters, air purifying plants and removing any chemical-laden materials, fabrics or furniture believed to be off-gassing Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs).

Even simple 2.5m-3m walk-off mats at a building entrance can help curtail the dust and dirt brought in from outside that is then potentially inhaled by workers later in the day.

Green cleaning & green procurement policies

This same biophilic concept can go all the way through to a workplace cleaning policy that uses eco-friendly liquids containing no harmful chemicals as a way to. create a healthy building.

From there we expand into a green procurement policy throughout the workplace, so that anything new coming into the office in future, be it cleaning products, whiteboards or new furniture, all aligns with this same principle of removing or reducing harmful VOCs.

If this isn’t done, there’s always a risk of taking one step forward and two steps back, almost without noticing.

For a look at a healthy furniture brand, see the Spanish brand ACTIU.

Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ)

Commercial grade indoor air quality monitors located at least 1m away from windows or air intakes, wall-mounted at head height, are now a tangible reality for any workplace thanks to democratized technology in recent years. We work with RESET AIR as one of their Associated Professionals.

Acoustics in workplace wellness

A bad echo in an open plan space, overheard conversations, a noisy kitchen, a receptionist with an especially loud voice, there are any number of acoustic landmines waiting for us in the workplace, so how those interiors are designed and what acoustic, sound-absorbing materials they implement can make a considerable difference on worker productivity.

Get it wrong, and there will be a low-level anxiety present amongst those who prefer quiet, almost silent workplaces in order to do their best work.

Soft surfaces such as furniture fabrics, and upholstery, rugs, carpets, wall or ceiling panels, even dense collections or plants can all help act as sound barriers, reducing the amount of sound bouncing around in an office.

The discussion around open plan vs a return to more cubicles is inherently connected, once again, to company culture, what we can say with certainty is that in the knowledge worker economy there are clearly very different types of task happening at any given time and an office should ideally adapt around that scenario.

In other words, having task specific spaces for deep work, others for collaboration, and still others for taking a quiet moment to recharge the batteries alone or with a colleague is now the gold standard in office layouts and workplace design.

Active design in a healthy workplace culture

For anyone who has been hiding under a rock for the past decade, sitting at a desk all day long is simply not good for our mental or physical health, it leaves us with reduced mobility, back pain and an unhealthy aversion to moving around as much as possible whilst at work.

Active design can include creating those different task specific spaces around an office as a way to encourage workers to move from one to another as they change tasks.

A company culture that encourages that, is implicitly encouraging a little extra movement as well. Easy win.

A company culture that either implements standing meetings or makes it acceptable for staff to stand during a meeting is also doing its part in fighting back against sedentary workdays.

Going a step further, literally, would be to encourage walking meetings of 2-3 people as a way to take in some fresh air, find a different perspective on a problem or simply to find a more personal, one on one moment outside of the classic ‘face to face around a table’ meeting scenario.

That can happen from the C-suite down, in fact if it isn’t seen in company leadership, it is unlikely to stick, except for the more renegade thinkers. And thank goodness for them!

Standing desks in company culture

For anyone who's ever experienced back pain at work or on long flights, just being on your feet several hours each day, perhaps with a small mat under your feet too for comfort, makes a massive difference to. energy levels, and removes the back pain issue for those hours at least but it can also help avoid the mid-afternoon energy dip.

A sit-stand desk with a stool that can change height is going to allow for moments of deeper concentration as well as for example taking a phone call standing up or doing admin work standing. Once you are standing, it is so much easier to move around your workspace, almost without thinking.

Smart lighting in a healthy office

Strategically using blue-white light on our desks when energy levels are low and you need your A-game is now as easy as adjustable a dimmer on a smart light, such as those made by the Philips HUE, amongst others. As a general rule though, we want softer amber hues after ark in order not to. disrupt sleep patterns at night.

Being sensible about exposing oneself to natural light is a simple but effective way to maintain energy levels at work as well, just being near a window with a view can help give us a mini energy boost, rather like taking 20 minutes of sunshine outside, but on a smaller scale!

Air purifying plants and indoor air quality

The use of a variety of different air-purifying plants in a workplace, advanced HVAC carbon filters, on-desk mini air purifier units, operable windows, the options for enhance ventilation and improved indoor air quality are more now readily available than ever before. There are no excuses for poor quality air in an office anymore but if we don’t measure it, we can’t improve or troubleshoot!

Movement snacks at work

We all have an opportunity when we work from home to play a bit more with our day and how we divide our time so we can try to find space for just five minutes of movement as a way to prevent fatigue or simply to break away from an intense task.

Be it jumping on a trampoline, doing a little yoga, burpees or jumping jacks, it’s all beneficial and it helps to reset energy levels that may otherwise flag at certain times of day.

Equally, the company culture can help to inform staff about their options here, most may not think to do something as wacky as this but just shaking you arms and legs out for a couple of minutes (ideally in the fresh air or by a window) makes a difference, everyone should try it!

Think of it like a healthy and nutritious movement snack, you have it with you wherever you go and at any time of day - it’s an empowering thought

Further Reading:

• Benefits of healthy coworking offices

a guide to workplace wellbeing design

What is workplace wellness design?

For us the concept of workplace wellness is about using wellbeing interior design combined with a number of strategies to ‘hack’ an office environment for productivity, concentration, collaboration and a range of both physical and mental health measures.

Tools at our fingertips range from active design, lighting, recharge rooms, improved air quality, flooring, decor, furniture, space planning, signage, food and drink, wellness programs and more.

Company culture and workplace wellness

You can go a step further by fostering a company culture that, for example, accepts standing meetings as normal, or that encourages up to two person walking meetings if there's a courtyard, garden, rooftop or park accessible nearby.

This starts from the C-suite down in terms of what is deemed acceptable or even admirable behavior, and then recognizing that there are many other ways to approach the work day now, for example by using a standing desk to stay upright for most of the day instead of slouched at a desk.

That can be a game changer especially for anyone who's ever experienced back pain, just by being on your feet, and having a small mat under your feet makes a massive difference, such as avoiding the mid-afternoon energy dip.

What is Wellness Lighting?

Increasingly easy to integrate into our home and work spaces, wellness lighting can be something as simple as a desk light that pumps different colored tones of light in your direction during the day to ensure you have adequate amounts of blue-white light during the day and, equally, a more amber hued light after dark, whilst still maintaining the necessary energy levels and promoting deep slight at night.

Circadian lighting systems follow this same routine every day, mimicking the rising and setting of the sun in tune with the seasons, rather than trying to create an ‘always on’ interior environment that can mess with our sleeping patterns.

Productivity and workplace wellness

When we talk about workplace design or healthy co-working office design and its impact on worker productivity we are typically talking about productivity improvements arin the 5%-6% changes although it can often feel like a lot more for those who manage to side-step the afternoon energy crash.

Acoustics and focus in the workplace

Flooring can make a real difference both in terms of acoustics as hard surfaces reflect or ‘bounce’ noise around and reduce the acoustic quality in a workspace, for example magnifying conversations between colleagues on the other side of the office.

So putting in an acoustic underlay, with a flooring tile that perhaps has a visual connection to nature, is recycled or upcycled, and is installed with a natural adhesive, and can eventually be taken back by the the flooring supply company at the end of its life in 5-10 years time, all of this can complete change the acoustics in an office whilst fitting in with a sustainability strategy as well.

If there's a rebound in terms of echo in your workplace, then look at the flooring first of all and try to cover it with rugs, then consider more soft furnishings, acoustic paint or acoustic ceiling panels, for a complete acoustic strategy.

Sustainability and wellbeing in workplace design

Integrating elements of sustainability and human wellbeing in interiors for a workplace is now the holy grail of design for us at Biofilico. It's also like a Pandora's Box once you start looking under the hood of everything. How do you prioritize what matters most? Sometimes there are compromises to be made, in fact, most of the time but that doesn’t mean we can’t keep trying!

For example having a work desk positioned next to a window that attracts plenty of natural daylight is a real help in terms of resting the eyes, boosting energy levels, provide access to fresh air outside, perhaps combined with a smart desk light for the evenings, while using a standing desk with a sustainable bamboo desktop, such as one from FULLY.

Standing desks in a healthy office

A standing desk can promote movement and reduce sitting time obviously but it is always best to pair it with a stool, in order to take some weight off the feet from time to time, giving us an option to take a call on our feet while moving around the office, then come back to sit down briefly while writing an important email, before returning to standing position again to complete some more administrative or creative tasks.

For more details on the role of ergonomic furniture in a healthy workplace interior see our blog post here.

Indoor air quality at work

We all know how important it is to bring plants into our work spaces and there are half a dozen that are especially good for this purpose, they are air-purifiers approved by a NASA study. It is recommended to combine them with an air purifier at home, or enhanced carbon filters in a commercial HVAC system in a shared office scenario.

Healthy materials are another key component in an indoor air quality strategy at work. Wellbeing interiors specify healthy, non-toxic materials such as wood, bamboo, cork, linen, wool, leather even recycled materials with health product declarations (ingredient lists showing they contain no harmful chemicals).

What is active design in the workplace?

Today there is an increasing understanding amongst workplace consultants, healthy building experts and HR specialists that sitting at a desk all day long without moving, with your hips at a 90 degree angle, your back hunched over, is simply no longer adisable. There are other options out there now, workers do not need to put their bodies (and minds) through that.

Part of the answer is in fostering incidental and frequent movement during the work day. Another response is creating different workspaces designed for different tasks around the office, implicitly encouraging movement between those spaces during your workday.

It’s all about understanding that connection between your sleep and your mental performance, your nutrition, and your, your performance at work and also what you're doing with your body during those hours of work so even if it's just getting outside or finding a bit of space to have a stretch, getting out your yoga mat or rolling out some stiff muscles on a foam roller, or even five minutes of burpees, bodyweight squats and press-ups, it' doesn’t really matter but staying active is the key. Keep your blood flowing and your energy levels high. It may just be a quick movement snack but it can be as good as a shot of coffee for some people!

workplace wellbeing with wellwise in the UAE

The ‘Green & Healthy Places’ podcast series takes a deep-dive into the role of sustainability, wellbeing and community in office real estate, residential property, hotels and educational facilities today.

Episode 28 takes us to Dubai talking to Bobbi Hartshorne, Co-Founder and Chief Wellbeing Officer at WellWise, a UK and UAE based business that takes an integrated diagnostics approach to delivering value via office wellbeing programs for corporations large and small.

Our conversation covers: 

• Bobbi’s experience creating a framework for student wellbeing via an innovative accommodation offer

• WellWise’s Research driven diagnostic system approach to workplace wellbeing

• their Employee engagement process to build a culture around wellbeing

• their network of specialists providing bespoke solutions covering everything from sleep quality, to office design and environmental health

• the growing importance of mental health support at work

• the subtle but important difference between wellness and wellbeing

• the opportunities in the UAE market for workplace wellness

Workplace wellbeing insights from our conversation

Workplace wellbeing improves almost anything that a CEO cares about ,from productivity to engagement, job satisfaction and creativity

organizations with high workplace wellbeing have 2% - 3% better performance on the stock market, better customer loyalty, and better sales performance

when you have a high wellbeing workforce, everything else tends to fall into place

in order to attract people back to these places we call offices, we're having to get very creative about what they look like, how they serve us, what function they fulfill and how they enable success

wellbeing has a broader and deeper meaning than wellness as it incorporates life satisfaction, accomplishment, motivation, purpose, engagement

GUEST / Bobbi  Hartshorne of WellWise Workplace Wellbeing UAE Dubai

• https://www.bewellwise.com/

• https://www.linkedin.com/company/bewellwise/

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobbihartshornewellbeing/

HOST / Matt Morley - wellbeing champion Espana Spain

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattmorleylux/

FULL TRANSCRIPT FOLLOWS COURTESY OF OTTER.AI - EXCUSE TYPOS!

Matt Morley

Okay, let's do this. If I may, I'm going to start by going back in time a little bit, because something came out of your CV as I was doing my research for this conversation. And it's a, it's a sector that seems to be really going through a transformation at the moment. I know it's no longer what you do. But I did want to just pick your brains a little bit on the student accommodation space. And you had a role a set of well being for global student accommodation group. And really the retargeting generation said, as I see it, and it's a dynamic sector. So you're combining wellness with student accommodation? Like what did that give you? And how did that go on to influence where you are today running various workplace wellness businesses?

Bobbi Hartshorne

Yeah. Well, it was a really interesting journey. The thing about that role at GSA was that I created it for myself. And so it was really the first of its kind in the private built student accommodation environment, although there had been similar roles in universities. And so it was a very steep learning curve. And it was really in response to a growing concern about the well being of students and the types of issues that were increasingly coming up in our residences, but also just around universities in general.

Bobbi Hartshorne

what I learned was that, for students, wellbeing was relatively universal. There were nine key areas that we were finding were the constant sources of stress or the opportunities to improve wellbeing. And they were financial, cultural, physical, mental, academic, spiritual, career and environmental. And it was this extreme change and this transition that young people are going through when they go from university, or when they go from school into university, that really creates this instability, where stress and low well being and challenges can fester.

Bobbi Hartshorne

the degree to which an individual has the ability to cope with those to address them, to reduce them varies massively depending on who they are, where they come from, what experiences they've had in the past. And so whilst we were able to build a framework for wellbeing that was fairly consistent across the world, how each individual student engaged with that or benefited from it really did vary. And there was certainly no one size fits all.

Bobbi Hartshorne

it dawned on me that these young people who were really quite different to the types of students that we'd had previously sort of the millennials, and the way they behaved and what they valued, and what got them motivated, and what stressed them was very different. And it dawned on me that those young people were going to enter the workforce, and that they were going to present so interesting and new challenges to employers, in the same way that they had presented new and interesting challenges to the student accommodation sector. And so I got really into looking at that transition, again, that vulnerable period of transition out of university and into the workplace. And I started to look at how existing working practices were maybe not going to align particularly well with this new generation, and maybe some of the challenges that were going to crop up.

Bobbi Hartshorne

And it wasn't long before we started to see burnout in mid 20 year olds, who had been in the workplace less than 10 years. It wasn't long before we started to see employers very concerned about mental health issues for younger employees, and a real change in pattern in terms of what those young employees were seeking from their employers. And it was way beyond cash, it just was so much more than financial gain. And so this is really where my interest in the workplace began. And then COVID cropped around the corner, gave us all a bit of a fright. And that was really an interesting experience because putting a workplace under an exceptionally extreme set of circumstances like COVID. And you tend to bring out either the best or the worst or a mixture of both. And so I really then started to observe what happens in a workplace under extreme circumstances and what happens to employees and leaders and managers under extreme work, workplace environments. And so that really was what gave gave this sort of leeway for me to take the take the jump out of the student accommodation world and into the workplace world because There were a lot of similarities and crossovers that I could draw on. But there was also a whole world of stuff I was interested in that I wanted to explore further.

Matt Morley

So am I right in thinking then with the student accommodation, you were to use the terminology from the hotel world of you're dealing with hardware and software. So you're doing both with training , teaching the mental game, as well as the physical game. So the spaces in which the students were spending their time sleeping at night, but they also meant providing, if you'd like more operational solutions to keeping them sane and healthy and positive and upbeat, right?

Bobbi Hartshorne

Absolutely. And it's quite strange, actually, from the physical perspective because universities for a really long time have been doing a lot to support students across all of those pillars that I mentioned earlier. But the one area that always seem to be neglected, or that was never really optimized was the accommodation, whether that was University owned accommodation, or whether it was privately owned accommodation. And it struck me that the nature of your home is the place where you're going to be engaging with your personal studies where you're going to have your downtime, where you're going to be maybe alone in your room, are the times when the challenges are probably going to rear their ugly heads. And, and it was really important for us to make sure that our teams on in the residences knew how to support students in that environment. But increasingly, that as we were upgrading residences, as we were building new residences, how we laid those structures out how we built community, how we identified whether students were isolated or behaving differently to maybe their normal patterns, that all became part of it. So yeah, absolutely operational and physical,

Matt Morley

There seem to be just so many parallels between the two, if you were to switch out what you've just described in the last couple of minutes, but instead of describing students, we would describe the staff or employees. And in fact, a lot of those same issues can come up or have been coming up, especially over the last few years around stress and anxiety and what have you.

Matt Morley

So you then transition across into the next phase of your career, you moved to launch your own business in October 2020, the end surrender, and there you're focusing more as I understand it on sort of a consultancy role for workplace wellbeing, right?

Bobbi Hartshorne

Absolutely. It just felt like , my natural transition. And my passion had really gone into that space, not that I wasn't still passionate about the student space, but I felt like I'd done a huge amount in the student space and there were great people there who could carry that on and evolve it further

Bobbi Hartshorne

I moved into the workplace and how the parallels as you've already alluded to, could transition across. I could see in the same way as five years previously, I could see that the university sector was struggling with student wellbeing the exact same was happening now with employees, employers struggling with employee well being, I was also observing a lot of snake oil solutions, and a lot of well washing, we call it and they're in your field, you have greenwashing. And this idea that it kind of wasn't very authentic that a lot of the work and practice going on in this space was at a very surface level, plaster over the cracks, put a nice picture on your website and kind of say that you're doing well being but as time went on, it became very apparent to organisations that that really wasn't enough. And it wasn't getting to the heart of the actual challenges and unpacking and really helping them to address the impact that a poor wellbeing workforce creates for an for an organization. And that was really where I wanted to step in with a much more rigorous and, I guess, scientific approach to wellbeing. But I was held back in doing that because what I didn't have that I wanted was a strong research platform. I kind of knew all the ingredients that were required through my own experience and through all the research I had done, but I wasn't able to get those articulated in a meaningful way because I didn't have a research platform. And so really not wanting to be just another snake oil charmer or just another well washer I set about trying to solve that riddle and now It was really when Tim Gatlin and worldwise came into the picture.

Matt Morley

I think it's a crucial point, because as you've suggested, typically, when going in on these projects, when there's there is a problem, by the time you get to the mechanic something's gone wrong with the car, so often by the time consultants brought in, right, if you've got people complaining, or the mood and the, the atmosphere in the office is really turned negative, or whatever it might be, something's going wrong here, I think it's quite rare that it's sort of anticipation, it anticipates, potential need, typically, you're kind of coming a little bit late to the game. So you have to deliver on the data and the numbers. And it's just, it's not enough to pen some nice words and hope everything works out. So you've then took this sort of far more data driven and research driven approach with Well, why so where you're currently clearly spending a lot of your time and energy and it looks to be an interesting new addition. So why don't we dig into that a little bit? So in terms of like, what that brings to the market and the needs that it's addressing? How are you resolving some of the issues that are out there at the moment?

Bobbi Hartshorne

So look, Tim, my business partner, Tim Gatlin, he already had a really, really strong research platform, that funny enough he was using in the student space, which is how Tim and I know each other, but he was also using it in other industries as well. And so I knew that that platform, and the strength of the tech involved in that platform was exactly what we were going to need to unpack the complexity of what we now call the workplace wellbeing network. And so we set about understanding, building on our knowledge, understanding what currently employers were purchasing in this space, what issues were they trying to target? What solutions were already on the market, what research was already out there, what questions were being asked. And we started to spot some key patterns. And these kind of worse split into they were either looking at what was happening with the employees themselves. So why are our employees not engaged? How do we build resilience? Why are our employees eating a terrible diet? Why are they not sleeping properly, or they would then look at organizational factors, although there was a lot less of that going on, but you would say, you know, is our management style appropriate for a modern workforce are our rewards and recognitions keeping up with the latest trends and desires of our employees. And so you have these kind of two sides of workplace wellbeing. But what you didn't really have was anybody who was working out how the two fit together, how they impacted one another, and where they could strengthen each other. And that was really what Tim and I were curious to see if we could create. And it turned out, we could so that was great.

Bobbi Hartshorne

In kind of talking to business leaders, we discovered three really important things. The first was the workplace wellbeing and employee wellbeing was top priority, or at least top five priority for every single business leader we spoke to. The second was that they were all completely overwhelmed by the amount of choice the amount of solutions, you might have conversation, the diversity of the discussion. And they were really struggling to navigate through to something that meant something to their own organization and their own situation. And the third thing was that a lot of them had already started and maybe even four or five years in have been investing in solutions and approaches and building teams and building structures around this stuff. But it wasn't actually really yielding what they kind of hoped. And so there was this kind of disillusionment or this paralysis happening where they were struck with this problem they just could not solve. And so after six months of research and diving into this topic, we've built a diagnostic system that brings those two factors together that organizational side and that employee side. And what we're able to offer organizations now is really comes down to clarity, being able to understand exactly what's happening in your organization, where the pain points are being created, where the challenges are arising from, and what the causation and outcomes of those are, what the cost of those are is to your organization, and then to help them to navigate through a strategic blueprint to a much more successful place to re redesign or redeploy their resources into the areas where it was going to have the most impact the quickest and then build from there. To where they wanted to go.

Matt Morley

Okay, and so you're beginning that process with a data collection phase. So presumably research and surveys, So you're getting both qualitative and quantitative data that gives you a baseline, right? And that forms part of the process or WISE process, as you call it, right? Where do you go on to?

Bobbi Hartshorne

Well, actually, there's a step before the data collection process, which we call the Y, phase for why. And really, this is this is often missing, as well, we discovered when we're doing our research is that quite often companies don't actually understand why it is that they're investing or think that they should be investing in workplace wellbeing. They they've either caught on to a trend, or they've spotted a specific issue such as engagement or resilience, or health, or they have a problem with something like productivity or engagement. And they go, Oh, well, wellbeing must be the answer. So because everybody's telling us that's the answer. But actually, when you start to talk to different employees across an organization, particularly at the senior level, you discover that there's actually quite a big difference in what they understand wellbeing is going to bring to the table, and some of them have got it, unfortunately, quite wrong. And some of them have got it right. But it's not aligned to their colleagues.

Bobbi Hartshorne

The other big Why is why are you doing what you're already doing? So a lot of organizations have already invested in this space they've already bought in consultants, they've already built a framework, they're already doing activities. But why did they choose that approach in the first place? And then why isn't it working? So we have to, we have to understand all of that before we can do the survey because what the survey then allows us to do is to dig into those issues a bit further, as well as just cover off the workplace wellbeing network that I already alluded to, with those those two sides.

Bobbi Hartshorne

Then once we've got those two factors, we can look at them together and say, well, you're saying you want to achieve x, but your current approach isn't doing that. And your employees are still struggling with this factor because of this situation. And so what we're then able to do is move on to the s the strategize element of the WISe process, and help them to use all of that insight, use that quantitative and qualitative insight and really drill down on a strategy that is going to help them achieve their why by unpacking the identified issues that we got at the ice stage, so so that's what we do. And then after we've done that, we've got a lovely strategy on a piece of paper. Well, it's it's next to useless when it's only on a piece of paper, it's now about engaging, it's the E phase of our why's process. You have to start engaging people. And there's two to send you two sets of people you need to engage. The first one, of course, is your employees. So how are you going to build them up, get them on board, get them bought into the process, get them contributing to it, and building a culture around wellbeing. And the second people, you have to engage professionals and specialists and that they could be you know, sleep specialists or office design specialists or manage management and leadership specialists, you know that there'll be a whole mixture of things so that that that phase is really important, as well. And it's really cool actually the way that that plays out, Matt, because those professionals that we bring in, and we've got network of people we can rely on, it's growing, seemingly daily, they don't come into an unknown quantity, they come in at the point that we've already understood the why we've already done all that quantitative data and analysis. So we're able to point them in the direction of the specific challenge that we're trying to target with their solution. So they're not trying to create a solution blind. They've got some real tangible insights themselves that make their impact much greater. And then once you've done all of that, and you've started to embed some different solutions, you're Of course going to want to know whether it's working. And that's where we bring in our reevaluation whether that's we won't rerun the whole system again, or whether we periodically, you know, look at a particular area on a smaller scale. And we can be quite agile with that now with technology and dashboards at our disposal to be able to dig in to a deeper or shallower level, depending on the need of the organization at that time.

Matt Morley

Is that then again, based on let's call it employee satisfaction, because often it's this question from the CEO CFO character. We're going to do all of this so what are the bottom line results we can expect?

Bobbi Hartshorne

the thing that is so awesome about wellbeing is that it improves almost anything that a CEO cares about. So a high wellbeing workforce is more productive, and more engaged, they're more satisfied, they're more innovative, they're more collaborative, they're more creative, they're far more likely to stay. So retention, they are also far more likely to recommend your employer or your workplaces somewhere for others to come in. So it helps with recruitment. And you get better team cohesion, you get better team creativity, and essentially, it just elevate everything. And if there's a specific thing that they're particularly targeting, so let's say they've got really low engagement or really low productivity, then we can certainly engineer this strategy initially, to specifically seek to drive improvements there. But what you find with wellbeing improved wellbeing in general is that as it as it elevates, it just pulls everything up. It's really, it's really quite fascinating in that in that regard. And the other thing that often is overlooked is it as a result of all of this, it drives the bottom line. So we know that organizations with high workplace wellbeing have 2% - 3% better performance on the stock market, better customer loyalty, and better sales performance. So it really does, you know, I'm really not trying to over egg the pudding here. But when you have a high wellbeing workforce, everything else tends to fall into place. And so that's why we really discourage people from focusing on just something like resilience, or just engagement or just productivity, and rather look at well being because your your, your dividends, your return for an investment in well being will be so much greater and so much broader than if you just try and pinpoint one specific problem and neglect the other elements of well being, too. Yeah, lots of claims.

Matt Morley

Okay. And so if we then dig a little bit deeper into the, the wellness practitioners, so in terms of the employee experience, apart from contributing to creating some initial baseline data around how things are performing in the office at the moment, then in terms of the lived experience, what they're engaging with these practitioners who come in, and perhaps you could just a hypothetical example, or a real life case study of perhaps that mix of 234 practitioners that you might bring in that would have an immediate impact on on the employee experience, or whether it's sort of if it's a fitness or wellness classes, or the environment that they're working in, because that at the end of the day is the process and action, isn't it? It's it's the staff, here it is that the changes are coming and whether that works or not, and whether you need to tweak it a little bit. So typically, how do you see that playing out?

Bobbi Hartshorne

Yeah, it's gonna be really interesting. on a case by case basis as to as to which practitioner which approach you choose to invest in and in what order you choose to take them on? Actually, the aside from practitioners, I'll come back to that in a moment. But actually, there's a huge amount that you can just do internally, you don't always need external help with this. Sometimes the results and the strategy is about actually assessing what's happening internally, and, and working out challenges that you've got internally, that you can actually fix yourself. So it's not always about saying right over to a handful of people who are going to rescue your business, because because a lot of the answers exists internally, and you've already got talent who can do that. But where there is gaps in your experience or your knowledge or their specialist areas that your your organization's not familiar with. It could be a real mixture of things that we're seeing a huge rise, for instance, in sleep practitioners, as we increasingly understand the power of good sleep and the cost of bad sleep on everything that is human about us. We're seeing as a result of COVID and this big conversation around hybrid working and trying to attract people back to the office. What even is an office now? This question has just come up in the last six months where what we've always considered to be an office the purpose of an office, what an office should do. has just been blown out of the water. And in order to attract people back to these places that we call offices, and we're having to get very creative about what they look like how they serve us what function they fulfill how they enable success, so you're gonna definitely have a big push in terms of office design, and environmental factors that help to drive those things

Bobbi Hartshorne

I think you're gonna definitely see a rise in the need for mental health support, compensation and benefits design is going to change because cash is no longer King, as I already alluded to, and then probably on the less traditional side, I think you're gonna start to see a rise in wellbeing scientists like myself, who can who can help people to unpack that data, you're going to have people who can assess your strategy as an organization, and how well being can help you to achieve that, I think we're probably going to see a lot more team practitioners as the role of teams, especially with a hybrid slash remote working changes and challenges that are coming in. And also one of the big areas, I suspect what's going to be leadership or management training, we're moving from Hero leadership to servant leadership. And that is a massive shift in how you act, how you think, what you do, the decisions you make the way that you lead. And that's a real big area of development that also and sustainable leadership, which I don't mean sustainable in terms of environmental sustainability, although, of course, that is very important. I mean, sustaining yourself as a leader, as the world of leadership just becomes so increasingly high pressured? How do you maintain your best leadership capabilities by by having high well being yourself? And how do you then invoke that sense of, it's good to have a high wellbeing workforce and sort of that gets moved down the organization? So yeah, so I think there's gonna be some interesting developments in in that space. And then finally, I think it's probably going to be a shift in HR practices, performance management, or rather, it should be performance optimization, and employer branding, recruitment strategies, and the design of the employee experience, they're all going to be things that I think are going to grow in terms of practitioner needs.

Matt Morley

You've been using the term wellbeing throughout this conversation. And I think it's, I've read something on your site recently, where you tried to pick apart the two concepts of wellness and wellbeing, it can seem not irrelevant, but it can seem that the two terms almost just merge into one. But I was interested to hear your thoughts on how you consider wellbeing to be perhaps more of a 360 view of physically and mentally in a good place versus wellness that was perhaps more limited.

Bobbi Hartshorne

Yeah, I think how many, it's really hard now, because as you said, wellbeing and wellness is sometimes used interchangeably, but actually, they do have slightly different definitions. And they definitely have different histories. And for me, wellness generally refers to sort of an individual person's physical and to a degree mental wellbeing. Whereas wellbeing has a broader and deeper meaning than wellness as it incorporates life satisfaction, accomplishment, motivation, purpose, engagement

Bobbi Hartshorne

I think wellbeing is something that's more easily applied to groups, which when we think about the workplace is important in terms of the wellbeing dynamics of teams who are being dynamics of departments of offices of regions, etc. So, you know, there's there's that kind of dual individual versus group application of wellbeing that's harder to express in wellness terms. I mean, the International Labor Organization describes workplace wellbeing as related to all aspects of working life from the quality and safety of the physical environment, to how workers feel about their work, their working environment, the climate at work and working organization. And why does it matter? Well, because the lens with which you understand wellbeing or wellness, it really doesn't matter what you call it, but the lens by which you understand it is going to massively influence your strategic approach to it. The types of practitioners you engage in the types of consultants you gain, you engage the data that you're looking for, if it's if it's understood in the more limited historic realms of wellness, there is a risk that you will miss out on the opportunities to explore Read through that much deeper lens of what we call well being. And typically we see well being referred to in the science and the data as opposed to wellness. So I kind of tend to feel that it's a slightly more rigorous subject. Well being as a more rigorous subject and wellness.

Matt Morley

Yeah, I get it. I like that. And we haven't touched on your location. But you obviously straddling two countries, in a sense between the UK and Dubai, the UAE. Now, how do you see those two locations differing in terms of interpretations of workplace well being? Are you seeing certain things that have much more relevance or importance in the UAE versus in the UK, for example, or vice versa?

Bobbi Hartshorne

You know, what, in many ways, it's not as different as you might expect. And there's some strengths and benefits to both that have sort of come out actually, in the last four or five months that I've observed, the thing we have to understand is that well being is universal. how we approach it, how we solve it, how we understand it, how we address it, the degree to which we're open to do that varies from culture, to culture, but the actual ingredients are factors that contribute to a human's well being are, are the same the world over. And, you know, our cities and any major city anywhere in the world that has a diverse cultural population is going to have issues and challenges and opportunities because of that. variance.

Bobbi Hartshorne

My, my gut feeling is that a lot of the issues are prevailing, the world over, they're not unique to particular cultures. So again, coming back to this shift from Hero leadership to servant leadership, that is happening in the West as much as it's happening here. race and gender inequalities that are still prevailing the world over old habits, dying hard in in kind of very highly bureaucratic, very highly hierarchical issues. These exists here as much as they exist in the West. For me, I think the only major hurdle is that there is probably a slightly delayed discourse here. And that may be the conversation hasn't been as open for as long in the Middle East, in the Gulf region, as it has been in the West. So people's kind of openness or understanding or literacy around the topic is maybe slightly lower here. But in some ways that actually map presents an opportunity for this region, because because the well being conversation and the understanding of well being has matured so quickly, and our data and best practice, evolution has been so fast. Actually, I find that sometimes the West is carrying a bit of old baggage in this space. And a little bit of like, Well, we've been on this journey for five years now. And nothing's changed or little has changed. And so there's a frustration there. Whereas the Gulf region is joining the conversation at a much more advanced stage and a much deeper understanding of the science behind it. And so they don't have to shed their baggage before they can engage at this higher level, which in many ways could present a really, really cool opportunity for them to leapfrog some of the resistance that we may be seeing in the West. And actually, that has definitely played out. I have had more attraction and interest and engagement from organizations in this region, including Saudi and the UAE than I have yet had in the UK, where you would expect the conversation to be much more mature.

Matt Morley

Nice. Sounds like you're you could be in the right place at the right time. So really insightful conversation. So thank you so much for your time, how can people reach out and contact you? Where can they find you online?

Bobbi Hartshorne

Yeah, so the best place to contact us is bewellwise.com we've got some really great free resources for people there, we've got a free to download white paper, which explores the current challenges with wellbeing and how to improve them. We've got a online self assessment tool where people can go in and answer a handful of questions and then get some tailored advice into their emails.

Matt Morley

Alright, listen, thanks so much for your time. It's been fun!

Workplace wellness strategies that will improve employee wellbeing

workplace wellness for staff wellbeing benefits

Interior design in a workplace environment should be conducted in the way of harnessing the power of nature for employee wellbeing and the long life span of all the used materials in creating such indulging and healthy offices and coworking spaces.

Yet despite what we know about the importance of health and wellbeing at work, many strategies and initiatives seem to fall down even in the beginning. There are numerable options to encourage and promote a healthier lifestyle at your workplace.

Some of these ideas require money or resources, while others are more cost-effective, long term improvements, not only for the environment but for the actions and behaviour of the employee.

1. Incorporate plants and refine air quality inside

When we think about pollutants, we often think about those found outside in the air, on the ground or in waterways. Indoor air quality, though, is just as vital to our everyday lives and health, and the pollutants found inside should concern us just as much, if not more - because all those dirty elements stay inside, with us, with no wind or rain to destroy them.

Breathing quality indoor air at work, where you spend most of your time is crucial for good health. Gases, chemicals and other pollutants can cause headaches, eye irritation, allergies and fatigue.

Serious pollutants can cause long-term health complications, and that dangerous stuff we breathe in can be found all around us: in paint, furniture and clothes.

Fresh air system can prevent many environmental health hazards such as asthma, which, according to some research, affects 25 million people in a given year.

How do we improve indoor air quality?

Incorporating a fresh air system that can significantly reduce pollutants, toxins and allergens can greatly improve your indoor air quality through air ventilation systems, energy recovery ventilators, purifying fans and air filters through the HVAC system or other standalone equipment. 

Other helpers that filtrate the air from pollutants and conciliates fresh air are plants! Research has shown that between six to eight air purifying plants are needed per room to have any meaningful impact. 

Plants look and perform best when carefully clustered in groups, like mini forests or jungles, so this can be a way of redecorating your workplace spaces, as well as “cleaning” them. A selection of different height Palms, Ficus, Chinese Evergreens, Garden Ivy, Boston Ferns and a Pothos and you’ll be ready to upgrade workplace wellness.  

2. Decorate with right materials and natural colour palettes

Biophilia is the theory and practice of creating buildings and products inspired by nature and incorporating nature into our everyday life. Researches on these topics have increased the understanding of the impact that nature has on the psychological and physical health and wellness of humans, particularly in office interiors.

Products which are made of or look like natural materials and the inclusion of living plants into the working environment can be of greater importance for developing willingness and motivation to be part of some company.

Less stressful and more productive atmosphere

A third (33 per cent) of office workers say that the design of an office would affect their decision to join the company, yet almost a fifth (19 per cent) of them say that there are no natural elements in their office and that they have experienced much stress while working.

This finding emphasizes the importance of identifying natural components and practices that can improve wellbeing at work. People have reported feeling happy when walking into bright office environments accented with green, yellow, lavender or blue colours.

Nature-resembling colours such as green, blue and brown have a positive impact on employee wellbeing, while grey and dark colours within the workspace lead to a significant negative impact on their stress levels.

What about the furniture?

Including plants, furniture features in office interiors also have a profound effect on employees. Living walls are becoming easier to manage and install. 

Advancements in technology have opened the doors for durable materials such as luxury vinyl tile, ceramic and porcelain tiles, counter surfacing products like carpets and rugs to be designed to look identical to their natural counterparts.

3. Adjust the lightning to suite the employees

Greater levels of stress were reported by those employees who didn’t have a window view. Window views of greenery and water were linked with lower levels of stress. 

Incorporating artificial light that gives off a natural glow is another easy element to update in your workplace wellness strategies. Natural-appearing lighting is everywhere these days, so ordering a few LED bulbs will change lighting fixtures.

Light and color temperature in the office impacts everything, from our wake-sleep cycle (at home) to our general health and workplace wellbeing. The advent of LED lighting gave us the ability to better control light.

Circadian rhythm management that inspires productivity and creativity - how so?

Researches have shown that tunable white lighting allows intensity adjustments and different colour quality, allowing us to mimic natural light, which can evoke human biological responses.

Office workers who receive a robust dose of circadian-effective light at work experience better sleep and show better performances when it comes to managing stress levels or depression.

Think of a classroom, if you want your students relaxed, you wouldn’t be able to have them like that under really bright, cool light. By bringing it down to more dimming, it gets to be a more relaxing environment.

4. Invest in fitness centres, initiatives and education

If you have the resources, offering a gym with workout equipment is an exceptional way to promote workplace wellness. Employees can workout during their lunch break or in the afternoon and then get back to their desks.

Mid-day workouts could improve employee productivity all day long.

Offering free health and wellness books, you can provide employees with the resources necessary to learn how to implement and sustain a healthier lifestyle long-term.

If you have an office kitchen, consider stocking it with products bars, fruits, vegetables, or other healthy snacks. Alternatively, try offering healthier meals for lunchtime rather than relying on them ordering pizza.

Wellness challenge to encourage workplace wellness

Friendly competition can provide a strong incentive for employees to focus on wellness, so consider creating your own monthly challenge. You might offer a cash prize, a half-day off from work, or a donation to the winning team's chosen charity.

Workplace wellness is also good for business

How to Increase Biophilic and wellness-centred elements?

The workplace environment and the relation between the employer and the employee are the spotlights of every company. If you are fierce in the look for talent and recruitment of good workers - you have to meet some standards when it comes to their wellbeing at work.

Compelling employee experience and workplace wellness programs focusing on behaviours should be priorities for employers. The global trend shows that those offices that provide natural light, live plants, greenery and water features had a significantly higher level of employee wellbeing than those devoid of nature. Although it would be great if each office space could be a natural oasis of light and greenery, it’s not always possible, so start with smaller steps and build your way up to the workplace wellness strategy suitable for your team.

What are sustainable office buildings?

Sustainable office buildings or even eco friendly office buildings are made to contain office spaces demand a great deal of investment, futuristic viewpoint and long term willingness to improve health. This strategic alliance is formed between green interior experts, teams of several different architectural niches and urban designers - all aligned to create a better working environment that can benefit to all its users.

Our purpose is not to collide with architecture or interfere in the process of construction, but we are inclined to bring nature indoors, integrating biophilia (the love and need for nature)  into 21st-century urban interior design and creating sustainable office buildings and spaces.

How do we succeed in making eco friendly office buildings?

By incorporating the everlasting principles of nature-derived materials, healthy surroundings that improve mood, with a sustainable way of reusing materials - we are given all the key factors needed for a good and sustainable office building to grow.

Biophilic design and vernacular architecture symbiosis

Vernacular architecture is a completely autonomous field of study, made due to the present socio-cultural context focused on the bad influence of the industrialization and globalization, and the use of suitable and natural materials from the local environment.

This concept assumes a building activity without a project and without technical representation, but still establishing a perfectly integrated empirical knowledge based on local tradition.

Chalets made of bamboo in South-East Asia or evolved examples of Scandinavian or alpine vernacular architecture that reflect the characteristics of the local environment, climate, culture, natural materials, technology are the best examples of sustainable buildings at the moment.

The embodiment of sustainability

These principles developed for centuries in different communities can be the future reflections of how sustainable office buildings should look like and what are the principles of their constructions.

Biophilic principles are also evident in vernacular architecture, where buildings are constructed in a way that reflects the landscape around them. This particular type of architecture combined with biophilic interior design allows people to form bonds with the natural world around them in a more profound way. 

These two have to be in some form of symbiosis to work out the problem called sustainable office buildings primarily, and later on - the apartment building and houses.

Non-toxic materials for green office buildings

Transforming your office building into a more sustainable office building of a harmonious collection of natural elements will boost your mood, productivity and sense of wellbeing.

To make a sustainable office building we need to use sustainable, earth-friendly materials such as wood, bamboo, cork, marble, granite, limestone, porcelain, as well as natural patterns, colours, textures and finishes, also made in a sustainable process and through the use of renewable energy.

You can include natural lumber, clay, straw and mortar - all-natural materials that do not contain glues, dye coatings or processing chemicals that can release toxic gases.

A lot of business spaces claim to have sustainable office buildings but this easy labelling can be sometimes questionable when it comes to environmental friendliness.

How can you distinguish a genuinely sustainable office building?

1. Sustainable floorings and elevations give impeccable acoustics

Sustainability in office buildings comes from unique and natural materials.

Sustainable flooring materials should be also produced from sustainable materials and by a sustainable process that reduces demands on ecosystems during its life-cycle. This includes harvest, production, implementation and later disposal in the eco friendly office buildings.

Bamboo flooring eco friendly office buildings are not wood but is very easily found and obtained and is harvested under cultivated conditions. Cork is an important renewable cash crop harvested from Mediterranean cork oak trees.

Salvaged wood planks make great material for floors, lending them an antique charm and are often used to replace large wood planks. Meanwhile, some places in sustainable office buildings can be made of recycled rubber - fabricated from recycled rubber products, such as old tires. Rubber flooring tiles or rubber sheet flooring can be a great choice for recreation or workshop spaces.

What does FSC wood plants mean?

When you buy flooring products for your sustainable office buildings that are labelled as FSC certified, you can be assured that it has been harvested with the best interests of both forests and citizens in mind.

2. Walls and ceilings made for sustainable office buildings

Drywall panels, wood framing and salvage parts are made with as much almost 80 per cent recycled materials and can be a greater option for wall or ceilings.

Leaving these parts of your sustainable office building in concrete look will also add to the ecologically conscious environment, and concrete is also very attractive and interesting contemporary material that gives that industrial, minimal look to office buildings.

A variety of countertop materials and wall and floor tiles are available that make use of pulverized and recycled glass and wallpapers can be grasscloth based.

What about the roofing in a green office building?

Recycled metal for roofing panels made from recycled aluminium, steel, copper, or alloys that combine different metals, or even stone roofing that are chemical-free can be a great choice for a green roofs solution on green office buildings.

Sustainable office buildings with good lighting and clean air

For sustainability in office buildings, natural light is the essential building block of a healthy, green indoor. Circadian lighting systems follows the body’s natural rhythm with amber tones early and late to avoid sleep disruption, while blue-white tones in the middle of the day can help improve productivity, especially when combined with individual task lights on office desks for example. 

Wellness lighting is an instrument in extracting some of the most potent physical wellbeing benefits of biophilic design.

Water and air purifying systems

The biophilic design also incorporates nature-based components such as fresh or purified air in sustainable office buildings, combined with the healing powers of herbal aromatherapy, soothing nature sounds, and more - to transform any workspace into a sustainable office building where people like to spend their time in.

Putting air-purifying plants we improve CO2 levels, as fresh and clean air is one of the first things we notice when in nature - and one of the first things that make as leave someplace if we get the sensation of too much heat or asphyxiating air.

Water is also an important element that we subconsciously associate with nature, wellbeing and sustainability in office buildings. Keep lungs and bowels happy and healthy by clean deploying air and water, preferably one with a HEPA filter. This helps restore air and water supplies to its natural state by removing pollutants.

Plants as a source of healthy air in a sustainable office building

Plants are instrumental for harnessing the benefits of nature in biophilic design, which is why integrating plants into interior spaces of sustainable office buildings is a fundamental tenet of interior design.

Floral designers can create artworks and sculptures in both natural and, when appropriate, artificial plants for long-term installations. Natural wall murals showing scenes of prospect and refuge are known to have stress-reducing properties; nature-inspired wallpapers as an abstract alternative well suited to homes and offices.

The decision about using sustainable materials for flooring, ceiling and other amenities in the making of sustainable office buildings has become a worldly popular idea and the number of sustainable office building is constantly growing.

Biophilic Design for People, Planet and Profit

As the world becomes increasingly urbanized, lifestyle convenience and stimuli typically increase while access to nature and green spaces decrease. 

This represents a fundamental disconnect with our evolutionary history; biophilic design offers a time-proven solution to this contemporary challenge.

We define biophilia as the human love of or need for a close connection with nature and other forms of life.

When applied to modern lifestyles, ‘biophilic living’ is less about a return to hunter-gatherer times and is more to do with the respectful (re)integration of nature into our homes, offices, gyms, diets and beyond. 

The last two centuries have seen a massive process of urbanization as entire populations transition from low density natural environments to heavily built metropolises with limited access to greenery, open spaces, and wildlife. 

Simply put, biophilia and biophilic design are a modern response to that disconnect from nature.

It is an attempt to reunite indoor and outdoor worlds through the sensitive use of natural materials, shapes, breezes, colors, scents, and sounds in urban architecture and interiors.

THE TRIPLE BOTTOM LINE

The Triple Bottom Line (TBL) is a way of breaking down a business model by evaluating it from three different angles: human health, environmental sustainability, and financial gain - People, Planet, and Profit.

People: Measures social responsibility, what is a business doing to further the health and wellbeing of its customers, or users, and the community around it

Planet: Measures environmental impact, how is a business protecting or positively influencing the earth

Profit: Measures what is gained, and there needs to be financial gain in order for the business to survive and continue to do good for People and Planet

PEOPLE: SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

Only more recently has there been emphasis placed on People in terms of our built environment. 

Current thinking however posits that buildings and interiors should not only be green but also healthy, actively contributing to the mental and physical wellness of its users, be they residents, office workers, patients or students

Biophilic design falls in line with this view, as people who spend time in biophilic spaces experience a plethora of benefits that extend to both physical and mental health. 

Here are a few noteworthy examples:

A BIOPHILIC HOSPITAL EXPERIMENT

A 1993 study by Dr. Roger Ulrich focused on biophilic design applied to various settings, one of which was a windowless, hospital emergency room. 

They traded blank walls and artificial furnishings for a design that aimed to connect people with nature through potted plants, furnishings made from natural materials, and a colorful wall mural of plants and animals in a Savannah-like setting. 

The result? A significant decrease in stress and aggressive behavior among patients, as well as improved recovery speeds of 8.5% compared with those facing brick walls. Multiply that small gain out over the entire healthcare system though, and the cost savings are considerable. 

Not only did the results of this study give us a glimpse of the power of a connection with nature, it showed that the positive impact can also be present when nature is indirect and merely representational. 

This simple biophilic design element is a potent way to improve the hospital experience—biophilic design doesn’t have to be difficult to be powerful. 

Hero offices Switzerland, Biofilico consultancy

A HEALTHY WORKPLACE

Hard evidence for the power of biophilic design in the workplace comes from a recent study undertaken by Professor of Organizational Psychology and Health Sir Cary Cooper entitled ‘Biophilic Design in the Workplace’ that surveyed a sample of 3600 office workers across Europe and the Middle-East. 

The results showed that office environments incorporating natural elements such as internal green spaces, natural light and an abundance of plants ensure higher levels of employee creativity, motivation, and wellbeing.

RECHARGE ROOMS

In an era filled with high-stress jobs and tech fatigue, recharge rooms are a growing trend in workplace wellness programs. Whether presented as somewhere for stretching and yoga, a quiet room for focused bursts of concentration and productivity, as a chill-out meditation space or even a games area, recharge rooms are somewhere for workers to — you guessed it—recharge their batteries during the workday. 

This can help lead to less stress, better productivity, more creativity, as well as better physical and mental health.

For more on Biofilico’s healthy office project for HERO Switzerland see this page.

PLANET: ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

FITWEL, standing for Facility Innovations Toward Wellness Environment Leadership, was launched in March 2017 and has currently impacted over 250,000 building occupants with over 380 projects around the world. 

They take a data-driven approach with a database of over 3000 academic studies backing up their efforts to inspire healthier workplaces and residential communities specifically. 

Certification systems such as the US Green Building Council’s LEED have given architects and interior designers a clear structure and format to follow, as well as increasingly prestigious ratings that add tangible value for building owners (Profit) and their occupants (People) whilst reducing the impact of buildings on the environment

Hero offices Switzerland, recharge room by Biofilico

Buildings and interiors that respect the planet, doing no harm to the environment and in some cases even giving back, are often described with terminology such as green buildings or sustainable buildings. 

This approach—one that priorities concerns for nature—is literally built into the biophilic design value system. We love what nature can do for us, so we respect and protect her in return, it's a symbiotic relationship. 

One key insight here is that the materials chosen for an interior space will not only influence the final ambiance but also impact the users’ health and wellness, largely by avoiding materials that off-gas harmful toxins and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). 

Opting for materials that are natural and sustainable will help ensure that both a room’s users and the planet stay healthy. Good materials to consider in this sense include FSC wood, bamboo, linen, cork, and ceramic. 

Using organic material can lessen the presence of harmful chemicals that are regularly found in building materials and furniture—think benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene. 

PROFIT: RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS

Although organic design stretches back as far as the 30s, sustainable, eco-friendly buildings, and biophilic design in particular are concepts that have been introduced into mainstream design only over the past 20 years or so. 

As we have argued above however, the inspiration is simply to seek a more evolutionary concordant relationship with nature whilst living a 21st century existence.

OUTSIDE-THE-BOX GAINS: EMPLOYEE RETENTION

We’re seeing more and more biophilic design used by large companies dealing in billions of dollars of annual revenues and tens of thousands of highly qualified, highly sought-after knowledge workers, Why?

Employee satisfaction and office productivity are crucial in maintaining a competitive edge. Yes, these companies are intent on using responsible architecture and renewable energy sources but they are also exploiting the latest research that explores the intersection between neuroscience and biology. 

Other examples of ‘profit’ derived from biophilic design include: 

• Improved productivity & creativity for staff in the workplace

• Higher prices on real estate sales and hotel rooms with a view of nature

• Opportunity to improve brand image through the office environment

Conclusion

While it may be instinct to devote your focus purely to profits, turning some attention toward environmental efforts and social consciousness holds an arsenal of benefits—which often includes increasing profits.

Biophilic design is a way to tap into the power of not only nature, but of the 3 P’s: People, Planet, and Profit. And in time you will find that they often overlap and feed each other to cultivate a happy, healthy, and thriving business in today’s society.