Designer Gym Flooring Selection: An Eco Gym Perspective — Biofilico Wellness Interiors

Zandur flooring looking mighty fine with a nature mural, wood rowers and leather sandbags

10 Tips on Gym Flooring and fitness centre flooring by a Gym Designer

1. GYM design budget and commercial gym FLOORING PRICES

First up, pricing of gym floors. For some it may come as a surprise that gym flooring is so expensive however this is also one of the most important decisions in the gym design process, bar none.

In terms of tangible numbers then, how much is enough for a gym flooring budget? We recommend allowing GB£60 per m2 -GB£80 per m2, in order to tick as many of the boxes outlined below there are simply no shortcuts.

Yes there are cheaper gym floor options out there such as rolls (rather than tiles) of Made In China ‘rubber' gym flooring that does not come with any kind of product declaration and almost certainly contains a multitude of VOCs and other chemical contaminants.

Many gyms will make some sacrifices, for example in sustainability terms, in order to economize with gym flooring closer to £30 per m2 especially if they have a large lifting zone or free weight areas where weights will be dropped frequently.

Colour options will be extremely limited however as mentioned, the flooring will not meet our own standards for wellbeing interiors / healthy interiors due to its affects on indoor air quality.

Hotel gym design tends to come with a different set of constraints, see our dedicate page here.

2. gym design and ACOUSTICS / NOISE REDUCTION

Depending on the chosen heating, cooling and ventilation system for a gym, there may be temperature considerations to factor into a gym flooring choice.

For example, underfloor heating systems in cooler parts of the UK or Scandinavia may come with certain requirements around what can be laid directly on top of them. It is worth checking with the supplier if an underlay beneath the gym flooring is recommended on this basis.

As long as the gym flooring has modest to good heat conductivity, there shouldn’t be an issue here.

Why might an underlay be useful? Let’s take an example from an urban environment such as a gym located on the first floor of an office building with ground-floor retail below and offices above.

Heavy loads dropped onto a thin 5mm laminate flooring tile laid directly onto the inherited flooring is likely to send the sound of clanging metal pretty efficiently in all directions, causing noise pollution that can come back to bite the gym owner.

Better to layer in an acoustic underlay made of dense eco-friendly and non-toxic fabric, ideally at least 2-3cm thick. This not only helps with noise reduction by absorbing and dampening the sound of heavy weights and equipment but also adds comfort underfoot. This is especially important in a home gym space where protecting domestic flooring and reducing noise for other household members is crucial. Yes, it is a modest extra expense but you won’t regret it. Gym users will thank you for the added comfort underfoot as well.

If you opt for a denser, hard surface such as wood or bamboo flooring, clearly there will need to be some areas of the gym such as around the squat racks where a more heavy-duty rubber tile will be required on top of the wood or bamboo to protect it, this in turn has an impact on the overall aesthetics of the space too.

Gym design budgets could therefore potentially include an underlay, the main flooring tile or rolls, as well as additional tiles on top on the heavy lifting area.

3. gym design and THE ROLE OF different gym flooring types for user comfort

We are fans of natural materials such as solid wood floorboards, whether salvaged from old train tracks for example, or sourced from sustainable forests within the region.

They provide a natural solution that does not give off harmful airborne toxins and they look great but, and this is a big BUT for a gym, they are unlikely to encourage much interaction with the floor by clients once the gym opens.

This is where training style and gym design inter-lap and is often the hardest part to communicate to an architect studio or interior design studio in charge of a gym design project.

If the training concept behind the gym involves an element of natural fitness or ‘functional training’ then one way to facilitate that type of activity is to install a flooring tile with a softer feel such as a vulcanized, non-toxic rubber that is not going to prevent a gym user from attempting a forward roll for example, or a cat crawl on all fours. For home gyms, durable and stylish home gym flooring options, like non-slip rubber flooring, are ideal as they support heavy-duty use while ensuring safety and comfort.

When did gyms stop becoming about agility, physical movement and play anyway?

The connection between flooring choice and the type of movements a gym user will feel comfortable performing in the gym may appear a subtle point but in fact it has a significant psychological impact on the end user experience.

Softer flooring solutions encourage more experimental movement by a gym user, harder flooring solutions do the opposite, from our gym designer perspective this is an undeniable fact. Softer flooring can still support heavy equipment while promoting a variety of movements.

Of note is that a classic gymnasium flooring material is in fact a spring floor, offering unparalleled bounce for gymnasts - however this is not much use for every other type of gym, except perhaps natural movement training!

4. GYM FLOORING AND INDOOR AIR QUALITY

Until early 2020 very few people were talking about indoor air quality in gyms but Covid changed that and we are unlikely to forget what we have learnt. In a way this is a good thing. More awareness of harmful VOCs in our furniture and flooring means more support for natural materials such as bamboo, cork and rubber, sustainably sourced please.

Clearly we want to stay away from installing anything with harmful toxins such as formaldehyde but we also need to control what is brought in from outside, especially in dense urban environments such as a city centre. Wearing the same shoes on the streets as you train in is going to have immediate consequences on the indoor air quality inside the gym, there is simple no escaping that. Additionally, using a pH neutral cleaner is crucial to maintain indoor air quality and avoid introducing harmful chemicals.

We now recommend additional attention be paid to the HVAC filters in a gym to ensure they are high grade, preferably MERV 13 or above, unless there is the option for natural ventilation in an indoor-outdoor space. Failing that though, we need the mechanical engineer on the project to be one step ahead with the ventilation rates to ensure a steady changeover of the indoor air throughout the day, even with our preferred option of eco-cork / rubber flooring tiles on the gym floor!

In terms of specifics, we want a gym floor that contains no PVC, phthalates or halogens and we really must insist on it being Red List** chemical free**

Other references might include a material that exceeds California IAQ (CHPS) indoor air quality standards (the gold standard for such things in many respects).

Many suppliers are now joining the dots between their products and green building systems like LEED or healthy building systems like WELL by illustrating where their products score points in each of the respective score cards. every manufacturer with a conscience and an eye on the future should be doing this!

5. sustainability & gym flooring

We would highlight cork and eco-rubber as top choices for sustainability, either as separate solutions or indeed in a cork-rubber blend as in our favourite Zandur tiles that combine both in one innovative solution.

We could also highlight bamboo flooring and solid wood planks but when we take into consideration all of the points mentioned in this article, cork and eco-rubber stand out as our first choices.

For a full Life Cycle Assessment approach to choosing a gym floor we now consider not just where the raw materials come from but also where they will go at the end of their life, in a decade from now say. some suppliers now offer take-back recycling programs that provides additional peace of mind for the gym owner. A small detail perhaps but details count in this game. Avoid adding to landfill waste that future generations will have to tackle eventually; instead select a fully recyclable material for your gym floor.

6. GYM FLOOR DURABILITY & IMPACT

Durability is a key factor as most gyms are going to have metal weights being lifted, carried, and dropped by gym users who have just exerted maximum effort in their last rep. The flooring needs to withstand the impact of heavy weights to ensure durability and safety. These things happen so as gym designers we have to plan to accommodate them.

Dumbbells and barbells frequently get dropped so we are looking for a solution that is especially hard-wearing in the strength zone in particular. And there should always be a strength zone! Additional rubber tiles on top of the gym floor will do the job, providing around 30mm of protection.

For barbell areas, there are Olympic lifting platforms that will fit in / around a power rack. Here again, it is worth investing in high quality solutions that will be able to resist even heavier weight drops, here we can be talking about 150kg-200kg in any serious gym, possible being dropped from overhead height, so count on at least 2 metres drop height.

For stretching areas, functional training zones (with sandbags, ropes, etc.) and cardio zones a lighter, softer material of 5-10mm can be useful but strength areas require a solid 20-30mm rubber tile system that is basically bombproof. This is especially important for home gyms where high-impact weight training and Olympic lifting are common. Rubber floor tiles provide soundproof and shock-absorbing benefits, making them ideal for home gym settings.

Anything less is going to cause you headaches in the long run, maybe not on day one, maybe not on day 365 but eventually the tiles will start to become a health & safety risk if they do not fit together perfectly. As gym designers, we have seen this happen too many times not to mention it here!

The one other caveat is strength machine areas (as opposed to free weights and barbell zones) as the static machines remove most of these risks from the equation completely, nothing is hitting the floor unexpectedly in this training zone. Yes there is considerable load placed on the flooring but it is a steady, constant load rather than an actual ‘impact’.

Regular cleaning with a damp mop is essential to maintain the durability of the flooring and ensure it remains safe and hygienic for all users.

7. THE AESTHETICS OF GYM FLOORING

Have you ever noticed that most gym designs specify flooring options that all look more or less the same?

We can identify a number of groups in this sense, for example CrossFit gym designs and budget gym designs around the world almost universally feature solid black or black speckled rubber tiles. Why?

They are fundamentally a cheap option, readily available from any number of gym equipment suppliers, they are functional and will likely last 3-5 years without any issues… nobody ever complained about this type of flooring, ever!

If we move into the realms of boutique gym design standards and even more so with premium or luxury gym design standards facilities such as resort gyms however, a number of different options emerge, not least natural cork tiles or an eco-friendly cork-rubber mix, sustainable FSC wood, eco bamboo flooring, even wood-effect LVT tiles for a cheaper but no less sustainable solution.

High-end rubber tile solutions from the likes of Pavigym come in a wide range of colours ensuring complete aesthetic integration into each specific site, this is another one of our preferred flooring options as a hotel gym designer.

Gym locations with limited natural light for example may do well to opt for a brighter colour rather than the standard dark black. We are fans of a terracotta colour in certain facilities as well as a Zandur leafy green for natural fitness training areas. After a certain price point the choice becomes vast, giving the gym designer plenty of room for creativity.

8. HYGIENE & GYM FLOORING - A NEW FRONTIER

Manufacturers are now producing detailed cleaning guides to ensure that hygiene standards can be higher than ever without putting the flooring tiles at risk, in part this is thanks to the material’s resistance to chemicals or disinfectants.

Equally porosity is key here as we do not want sweat or other liquids to penetrate the surface of the flooring tile.

A high quality virgin rubber tile will ensure that no odours linger around at the end of the day, the surface can be wiped clean and sanitized professionally, and also will not absorb any spillages of water bottles, protein shakes and the like.

Already the terms micro-bacterial and anti-fungal are appearing with increasing regularity in marketing materials but with good reason so be sure to select a gym flooring tile that performs well in both aspects.

We are fans of athletic turf tracks used for sled pulls such as those produced by Sprint Tracks in the Netherlands. Sprint tracks are custom made and can be created in 4 weeks in any combination of colors. However, the Polyethylene plastic used to make it is a concern from an indoor air quality perspective as well as from a single-use plastic perspective as this type of materials appears to be non-recyclable, thereby contributing to the world’s growing plastic problem.

Any manufacturers of athletic turf that is non harmful to People and Planet are invited to contact us to make our lives as gym designers easier!

9. gym design and eco-friendly installation

It may sound obvious but being able to not only install your own floor tiles but also remove them, move them around or replace them at a future date gives you that extra bit of flexibility should circumstances change in the future, or your gym needs evolve.

Typically a good option is an interlocking tile system with connector plates on the underside of the tiles. A pack of 4 x 50cm2 tiles would therefore give you 1m2 of flooring that can be lined up with the next square metre and so on.

Ramped edges and corner sections ensure there are no health and safety risks with sharp differences in height between zones, for example between the entrance and the main gym training area.

Be sure to specify no-VOC adhesives or backing so that no off-gasses are introduced into the gym space during the fit-out process that would damage the indoor air quality.

10. gym design and health & safety concerns

Last but not least, if it needed saying, your gym flooring tiles should meet all relevant fire and smoke standards.

For Biofit gym designs we are usually working with European and North American standards; opting for cheaper Chinese solutions in particular can expose a gym owner to risk in this sense so it is always worth checking twice before proceeding with a purchase.

By way of an example, Zandur Sustain Sport gym flooring has slip resistance that surpasses that of most safety flooring and exceeds UL and ADA recommendations, meets all North American and European standards for fire and smoke, and it STILL manages to exceed California IAQ (CHPS) indoor air quality. Beat that if you can!

For more information about our gym design services see here or contact us via email here

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Further Reading

• We Design Recharge Rooms, Restorative Spaces & Wellness Rooms

• Biophilic Design Consultant

• Sustainable Interior Flooring Zandur

• Hero Corporate Offices

• Best Examples Of Biophilic Design In Learning Environments

• Designing A Hotel Gym

• Biophilic Design And Wellbeing Interiors- An Evolutionary Perspective

• Hotel Gym Design - A Consultant's View

• Healthy Building & Wellbeing Real Estate Consultants

• Indoor Air Quality In Gyms

• Design Consultants For Leisure Spaces, Wellness Facilities & Gyms

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

• Biophilic Design In Gyms & Spas

• Wellness Interior Design Consultants

• What Is A Healthy Building Material?

• Benefits Of Active Design In The Workplace

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

• Organic Interior Design: Connecting Nature & Interior Design

• Restorative Recharge Room Designers

• Biophilic Design Consultant & Interior Designers

• Best Examples Of Biophilic Design In Offices

• A Guide To Workplace Wellbeing Design

• Sustainable Boutique Hotel Brands UK

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

• Designing A Hotel Gym or Resort Fitness Facilities

Design Inspiration From Nature: Exploring Relationships and Their Benefits — Wellness Design Consultants

Throughout the vast history of the human race, we’ve always seemed to be synchronized with nature and its processes. However, the harmony between our species and nature has been somewhat disrupted over the course of the last two centuries.

Badly drawn up designs in dense urban areas rapidly grew over the course of the last century, thus making cities all over the world look like real-live concrete jungles. This has led to a slow eradication of natural patches in the cities, making contact with nature a real luxury to their inhabitants.

Throughout this text we’ll be discussing of nature design relationships and its impact on the psychosomatic health of humans. So, bare with us in order to find out more about this topic, including the limitless possibilities of design inspired by nature and how the design process incorporates these elements.

Do modern day cities have enough room for the natural world?

People living in big cities all over the world spend the majority of their time in their offices, apartments or public transport. Whatever the case may be, the sad fact is that the modern day humans are slowly losing their ties with nature by being surrounded by concrete on a daily basis.

Detachment from nature has been linked to numerous psychological and physiological health issues such as depression, insomnia, joint pain and various lung diseases among many others. This has been a growing issue since modern-day cities have more population than ever.

Luckily numerous professionals on the subject have worked together on finding a solution to these problems, and have thus concluded that the relationship of nature and design must be in perfect accordance in order to have a more positive impact on the psychological and physiological health of humans. Nature-inspired design can address human problems related to urban living by emulating nature’s time-tested patterns and strategies through biomimicry.

What is Biomimicry design mimicking nature?

Since the beginning of time, nature has always been an infinite source of inspiration to humans all over the world. Designers, artists, architects and even scientists have used patterns in nature and its processes as ground zero for their inventions and products.

Design thinking plays a crucial role in biomimicry, involving an interdisciplinary approach to reverse-engineer nature for real-world problem-solving.

The practice of solving design challenges in a sustainable, practical and healthy manner inspired by nature is called Biomimicry. In short, Biomimicry design is the process of developing nature-inspired solutions for the problems of modern-day humans.

While it may sound like a new trend that has been developed during the recent years, the practice of Biomimicry design has been around for ages and can be traced all the way back to ancient times with buildings such as the “Hanging gardens of Babylon” often being taken as one of the best examples of Biomimicry and Biophilic design.

The term Biomimicry has been derived from greek words “Bios” which represents life and “Mimesis” which roughly translates as “imitations”.

How does nature influence our mental and physical health?

The relationship between the natural world where we spend the majority of our time and our emotions is indisputable.

State-wide survey results have shown that up to 84% of people claim that their job has contributed to deterioration of their mental health, out of which only around 40% of them feel that the companies they work for have taken adequate measures to improve their mental state.

Even though we’ve seen companies take more initiative when it comes to improving the mental health of their employees by offering free gym memberships and the occasional opportunity to work from home just aren’t enough.

It’s a well known fact that nature has a great influence on our mental health. Contact with nature can help relieve stress, improve memory and increase creativity, happiness and the feeling of kindness. However, water is a key element as well when it comes to taking care of our mental well-being. In fact, the impact of water on our mental health is so big that numerous studies have confirmed that our brains are hardwired to have a positive reaction to seeing or hearing water.

The impact of organic architecture on mental health

In all honesty, the spectrum of mental health is an extremely broad term whose causes depend on a lot of different variables in one’s direct surroundings. However, research has given evidence that the natural interior design of spaces we spend our time in can not only relieve the feeling of stress and anxiety, but can awake the sensation of serenity, peace and motivation.

Natural light also plays a crucial role in improving mental health by enhancing mood and reducing stress levels.

Now, more than ever, people are losing their connection to nature.

With the current estimate of more than 50% of the world’s population living in cities, a number which is expected to rise, the architects, designers, urban planners and biologists have tried their best to incorporate the soothing effect of nature design, be it architecture inspired by nature or natural interior design, it is of key importance that the spaces in which we work and live have plenty of greenery.

Nature inspired design concepts

The majority of products available today, whatever their use may be, have their shape or fundamental purpose inspired by the processes that occur in nature on a daily basis. From laptops closing like sea-shells to buildings that resemble a termite nest, nature has really played a crucial role when it comes to shaping the modern world. Engineers often look to natural selection and adaptations in the natural world to derive innovative solutions for modern design challenges.

Butterfly wings have inspired new types of solar cells and innovative product designs, such as color creation without pigment and eco-friendly paint technology for cars.

In summary, it’s safe to say that the future of design lies within nature, and while we may not know what surprises biomimicry may have in store for us just yet, we can guarantee that it won’t be boring. Cooling devices inspired by the African Namib Desert Beetle’s water collection mechanism are being developed for building cooling and cleaning up toxic spills.

Comprehending the way that the mind reacts to is crucial to approaching psychological issues of any human. Noise pollution from the Shinkansen bullet train was reduced by redesigning it with a long beak-shaped nose inspired by the Kingfisher bird. Similarly, shark skin’s microscopic patterns have been replicated to create a ‘riblets’ film that reduces drag and deters microorganisms from attaching to surfaces. Our team of LEED certified Bifiolico designers is composed of some of the best experts in the field of biophilic design, organic interior design and nature inspired design concepts in general. Serrated edge wind turbines, inspired by the bumpy protrusions on whale fins, offer a more efficient and quieter alternative to smooth blades.

Sustainable solutions inspired by nature’s patterns and strategies address human challenges in an environmentally responsible way. The ventilation system of the Eastgate Centre in Harare, Zimbabwe, mimics termite mounds to regulate air and achieve self-cooling.

Waxy hydrophobic materials repel water, fat, and oil, inspired by the lotus flower’s nanostructures. Wind turbines have also been inspired by the aerodynamic abilities of whales, specifically the unique bumpy protrusions on their fins.

Feel free to contact us for any additional info or nature inspired design services you may need.

Visual connection with nature within our interiors — biofilico wellness interiors

Interior design is a unique mix of creative and precise processes that work in conjunction to enhance the interior of a certain space, be it a building, an office or a home.

Modern-day humans tend to spend more time in the office than ever, that being said, they spend less time outdoors, thus the connection between the people and nature has reached an all time low.

The importance of visual connection with nature is often being taken for granted and is, more often than not, treated as a commodity rather than a necessity which provides significant psycho-somatic benefits to humans.

As luck would have it, architects and designers around the world have found a way to bridge the gap between the ever-growing amount of time humans tend to spend indoors and the importance of having a visual connection with nature in the built environment.

Thus the ground-works for biophilic design have been laid and the trend became an overnight success due to its many benefits.

The importance of connection with nature, it's elements and processes 

We believe that the spaces where people spend the majority of their time should not only be functional and well decorated, but also have a positive impact on our well-being. It has been proven by various studies worldwide that the visuals of greenery and animals lowers the stress levels, our blood pressure and awakens the feeling of serenity. The psychological and physiological importance of viewing nature cannot be overstated.

It is true that everyone has a different opinion on what the beauty of nature really is, for some it may be a luscious waterfall, while to others a beautiful sight of nature may reflect the vast and golden savanna. Whatever the case may be, it is of utmost importance for humans to feel connected to nature on a daily basis. This connection often involves engaging with natural systems and understanding natural life cycles, which can heighten our awareness of seasonality and the cycles of life.

There are several ways humans perceive the feeling of being connected with nature such as:

• Visual connection with Nature

• Non-visual connection with Nature

• The Presence of Water

• Dynamic and Dispersed Lighting

• Proximity to Natural processes

• The exposure to Thermal and Airflow changes

Visual connection with natural elements 

Visual connection with nature has an enormous impact on humans. Creating a visual experience inspired by nature can be both stimulating and calming. For these reasons more people today are incorporating nature inspired designs in both their work spaces and homes as well. Green walls are a common example of bringing the presence of nature into a space.

These connections can be established by a variety of different elements. By using biophilic interior design, the designers are able to successfully narrow the gap between the modern-day humans and nature.

That being said, stimulating views of natural elements, living systems, and plants have an enormous effect on both our mind and our body. The material connection with nature, through the use of natural materials, grains, and textures, also plays a significant role in reflecting the natural environment and enhancing cognitive performance.

Non visual connection with nature and it's elements

Apart from the visual stimulus, the non visual connection with natural elements is highly important to us as well. By simply hearing and/or feeling certain familiar incitements from nature, our mind can be stimulated to relieve stress and work more efficiently. Non rhythmic sensory stimuli, such as the gentle sway of grasses in a breeze, can provide mental breaks and enhance our well-being.

One of the easiest ways to incorporate different elements that simulate the feeling of being out in the wilderness is a mechanically powered water flow with varying water pressure which is one of the most efficient practices when it comes to biophilic design.

Other ways that promote the feeling of non visual connection with nature include the stimulus of other senses through touch and smell. With the main goal of increasing mental health and focus, the sound of water, a crackling fireplace, and the smell of pines are one of many tools that are being used when trying to bring nature closer to us. Incorporating natural analogues, such as organic shapes, materials, and patterns found in nature, into artwork, furniture, and décor can also trigger a biophilic human link to nature and inspire a sense of well-being.

Dynamic and Dispersed Lighting

Various studies have confirmed that people find it soothing when the indoor light is being used to mimic the circadian processes in nature since unpredicted lighting patterns are a natural occurrence that people are exposed to on a daily basis. 

However, the effect of dynamic and dispersed lighting can only be pleasant if it's carefully designed and placed in a way that doesn't directly affect anyone. This type of lighting should only be used to enhance the atmosphere, and is in no means meant to illuminate the entire room. 

This being said,  it is extremely important that the space we're spending the majority of our time in is well exposed to natural light.

Proximity to Natural processes

Proximity to natural processes, such as changing of the seasons and even the weather, is highly important since it affects our visual connection with nature itself and gives humans the feeling of being connected to the events taking place outside. Incorporating natural materials like wood, granite, and leather into design can further enhance this connection and elicit positive cognitive or physiological responses.

Whether the interior design of your work or home space is leaning more to the visual or the non-visual aspect of biophilic design, the certain thing is that it does wonders for our personal sense of peace and our motivation. Implementing space patterns, such as non-rhythmic sensory stimuli and visual and non-visual connections with nature, can optimize the physical environment and strengthen our connection with natural systems.

The summary

One of the biggest goals when it comes to biophilic design is helping to create a space that promotes a multi-sensory experience that provides its inhabitants the feelings of calming and stress-relieving sensations. Mimic natural environments by incorporating subtle changes in air and surface temperature, humidity, and airflow across the skin to enhance thermal and airflow variability.

By providing the visual elements such as views of stunning landscapes, beautiful plants and animals in the wild, or stimulating other senses through fragrances and sounds, biophilic design is helping people increase their productivity, self-confidence and general well-being.

Biophilic design is a complex process and in order to truly experience its real advantages, the entire operation should be handled by an experienced professional.

We hope that you now have a clearer picture when it comes to benefits of being connected to nature. LEED certifiedBiofilico designers offer high quality service when it comes to interior decoration and design, so feel free to contact us for any additional services when it comes to biophilic design.

Visual Comfort in Buildings: The Key to Focus and Concentration in Offices — Wellness Design Consultants

Most would agree that one of the most important aspects of workplace interior design is visual comfort, largely to do with the quantity and quality of light hitting the eye’s retina.

Get it right and a workplace wellness designer has the power to make office workers feel relaxed, focused and able to concentrate throughout the work day. Get it wrong on the other hand…

Visual comfort in office buildings is often about achieving a certain natural harmony within a particular space, combining considerations around material selection, glare, shadow and the colour of electric light within the indoor environment at different times of day.

But have you ever wondered how visual comfort in buildings can help people maintain****focus? In order to give you an accurate answer, let’s start with the

What does “visual comfort” in an office context mean? 

Visual comfort is best described as an individual’s reaction to the light inside a particular space, in this instance an office, or an area within an office such as a meeting room, open-plan desk area and so on.

Just as workplace design with a wellness focus takes into consideration both acoustic and thermal comfort as well, visual comfort in office buildings is a deal-breaker in today’s highly competitive office design scene, we simply know too much about how to get this right - there are no excuses!

So visual comfort can be a combination of both natural and artificial light, including views out onto the surrounding area, ideally not looking directly into an adjacent building and at least able to see some sky above. The luminous environment, including background luminance and luminance intensity of glare sources, plays a crucial role in influencing visual comfort and the perception of discomfort glare.

Glare control meanwhile is about managing the light coming into an office building from outside, ensuring it does not cause distractions for those working indoors, for example by hitting computer screens or bouncing off a reflective desk surface and distracting a worker from their task.

Interior designers are very cautious when it comes to this element of design, since it’s easy to exaggerate or lack in the level of the light. Different levels of lighting can evoke different vibes and experiences of space.

How does visual comfort in buildings affect our focus?

The impact that lighting inside one space has on people should not be neglected. Natural and artificial lighting have a great influence on how we feel, think, and react to things. It is proved that a good light quality, luminosity, views of outside space, and absence of glare have positive impacts on mood and productivity.

In order for people to be creative, motivated for work, and, most importantly, focused well inside a room, there has to be adequate light conditions. Many studies have shown that daylight can boost learning. Daylight illuminance is a key factor in evaluating the quality and sufficiency of light in a space.

It is because the certain parts of human eyes are connected to the parts of the brain that secrete sleep and alert hormones such as melatonin and cortisol. When the light enters human eyes, it engages a non-visual system which is responsible for cognitive performance of people and the timing of their sleep-wake cycles. Poor lighting conditions can lead to visual discomfort, affecting both physiological and psychological well-being.

The significance of the blue light 

Blue light has been shown to have stimulating effects on us as it is the light we experience naturally from the sun during the day, it is the colour of digital screens and LED lights, causing us to be more active and alert, so when a blue-white light is used in an office building, it is there to have a very specific effect. 

The problem comes however when that same light is used after dark and those working late are not able to adjust to a warmer amber tone that will not disrupt their sleep patterns later on.

The famous study in the elementary school in USA

The impact of appropriate lighting is shown in a famous study in an American elementary school where students exposed to higher daylight levels during the day had 26% higher reading scores, 20% higher math scores, and improved cognitive performance over other students without the same exposure to intense natural daylight

Ways of measuring visual comfort 

In order to ensure high levels of visual comfort in office buildings, we measure light by its intensity, illuminance, and various glare metrics to assess visual comfort. Useful daylight illuminance is a metric used to evaluate the quality of daylight in a space.

Daylight illuminance is measured to ensure adequate light levels and occupant visual satisfaction.

On the other hand, when we speak about radiometry, it is possible to measure light by its wavelengths and characteristics which are specific to an electromagnetic wave.

Natural light is great for productivity and focus

Knowing how vital good visual comfort in office buildings can be for productivity and focus results in many of those who design biophilic spaces will go out of their way to maximize access to natural light and artificial lighting wherever possible, not just as a way to promote a connection to nature but also for its wellness design benefits on cognitive performance and all-round productivity. Energy strategies can further enhance visual comfort and productivity. Good glare control is essential for maintaining visual comfort and productivity.

Meaningful design - what impact does it have on human senses?

Designing an interior space is a creative process that engages our imagination as we are forced to think across multiple planes, from colors to shapes, textures, fabrics, materials, light, and plants.

But have you ever thought about how meaningful design affects the human senses? How might one design impact a person and his experience of that environment, versus the same design and a different person?

Interiors need to do more than just look good nowadays, the evidence proving that our environment can have a direct impact on our mood, stress levels, anxiety, and happiness is beyond doubt. Changes in ambient lighting, for example, can significantly affect these emotional and physiological responses.

It is for this reason that Biofilico and the wider community of biophilic interior designers and wellness interior designers aim to create environments that are ‘human senses friendly’, genuine oases of positivity.

Introduction to Multi-Sensory Design

Multi-sensory design is an innovative approach that takes into account the full spectrum of human senses, including sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell. This method recognizes that human perception is a complex interplay of multiple senses working together to create a rich and immersive experience. By designing for multiple senses, designers can craft environments that are not only visually appealing but also engaging and memorable. This holistic approach to sensory design ensures that spaces resonate on a deeper level, enhancing the overall sensory experience and making a lasting impact on human senses.

Brief History of Multi-Sensory Design

The concept of multi-sensory design has been evolving for decades, gaining significant traction in recent years. During the 1950s and 1960s, artists and designers began experimenting with multi-sensory experiences, utilizing light, sound, and smell to create immersive environments. This era marked the beginning of a shift towards sensory integration in design. By the 1970s and 1980s, these techniques were being applied to product design, resulting in items that engaged multiple senses. Today, multi-sensory design is a rapidly growing field, with designers and researchers continually exploring new ways to create immersive and engaging experiences that captivate all the senses.

The Importance of Considering Multiple Senses in Design

Incorporating multiple senses in design is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it allows designers to create experiences that are more engaging and memorable. By stimulating multiple sensory modalities, designers can craft environments that are immersive and interactive, leading to increased user engagement and satisfaction. Secondly, considering multiple senses in design promotes accessibility and inclusivity. By designing for a broader spectrum of sensory experiences, designers can create spaces that are accessible to people with disabilities and enjoyable for individuals of all ages and backgrounds. This approach ensures that the sensory qualities of a space cater to a diverse target audience, enhancing the overall user experience.

How do people perceive spaces and objects around them?

Often when you enter a room, you get a specific feeling or vibe that will immediately promote an emotional response that is highly individual and linked to our past.

Human beings receive information from the outside world through our senses, all of which are intricately connected, meaning humans perceive spaces and objects through multiple sensory stimuli including vision, sound, and touch.

In the simplest of terms, the sound is all to do with physical vibrations**,** while sight relies on light hitting our retina, and touch is connected to our somatosensory system that includes touch receptors and nerve endings.

The Science of Human Senses

Human senses are incredibly complex and capable of perceiving a wide range of stimuli. While the five traditional senses of sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell are well-known, they are just the beginning. There are many other senses that play a crucial role in our perception of the world. For instance, the sense of balance and proprioception (the sense of body position and movement) are essential for our ability to navigate our surroundings. Understanding the full spectrum of human senses allows designers to create environments that engage all the senses, leading to a more comprehensive and enriching sensory experience.

The Five-Sense Myth: Understanding the Complexity of Human Senses

The notion that humans have only five senses is a myth that has been debunked by scientists and researchers. In reality, humans possess a multitude of senses that are capable of perceiving a wide array of stimuli. For example, the sense of touch extends beyond the skin to include pressure, temperature, and vibration. Similarly, the sense of smell is intricately linked to taste and the ability to detect pheromones. By acknowledging the complexity of human senses, designers can create experiences that are more engaging, memorable, and effective. Designing for multiple senses allows for a more immersive and interactive experience, ultimately leading to increased user engagement and satisfaction.

By integrating these new sections, the article will provide a comprehensive overview of multi-sensory design, its history, importance, and the science behind human senses, all while maintaining a consistent tone and style.

How can people get tied to space and objects via senses? 

Since human beings are destined to perceive the world around them via their senses, interiors that make use of multi-sensory design strategies and consider various sensory aspects can have a huge impact on mood.

Whenever you step into space, a specific smell or a sound can evoke an emotional response, perhaps nostalgia, sadness, or optimism.

The multisensory connections inside the human brain have the capability to make us remember emotions in response to the physical environment we find ourselves in. Consequently, we can all become tied to certain spaces, objects, and experiences.

Why is meaningful design so influential on sensory experience?

Multi-sensory design, or ‘meaningful design’, has physical aspects that affect our mood, energy, how we think, act and feel. Our perception of comes to us both consciously and unconsciously in fact.

In order to design a multi-sensory environment one must understand how we as human beings engage with the spaces around us. Understanding sensory engagement is crucial for designing multi-sensory environments that challenge visual dominance and promote a more inclusive understanding of space. We tend to be influenced by what we see, hear, touch, taste and smell. All those senses are responsible for memorable human reactions at the level of wellness interior design.

For healthy interior design consultants like us who want to make residents or office workers feel comfortable and in a positive mood, green interior designhealthy environment strategies help to evoke a certain emotional response.

How to design space that stimulates human senses through multi sensory design?

Now that we are aware how much meaningful design can impact senses, the question is - what might that type of interior design look like? How can we evoke certain experiences or moods through our interior design choices?

No matter whether it is the color of a wall, the sound of walking across a certain type of flooring, the choice of lighting in a room, or the textile and materials used for the furniture, each and every element, including sensory features, can collectively amount to a specific feeling. For us, choosing the right materials is especially important to this process.

The importance of choosing the right biophilic design materials 

Vision is one of our most evocative senses so we tend to notice furniture, flooring, textures and materials first when walking into a room. Natural materials such as wood, brick, stone and bamboo help establish a connection with nature indoors.

If an interior design features an abundance of air-purfying plants and elements of water such as fountains or aquariums,  a healthy interior at home can become an oasis of productivity and creativity. 

For a truly meaningful design that is multi-sensory in every way possible, natural lighting is one of the other key elements to consider for a wellness design consultant.

Ambient lighting has a great impact on the mood and productivity

Did you know that natural light has numerous health benefits? It's presence in the interior can reduce the risk of many diseases, can prevent weight gain and even help skin absorb vitamin D that is essential for overall health. It also affects the secretion of happiness hormones that make people feel productive, happy, and motivated. 

If natural light isn't possible in the interior, LED lights could be a great substitute since they are the least harmful type of indoor light. However, the combination of the natural light and natural materials is ideal for a wellness design or meaningful design concept that will impact the human senses. 

Biophilic + meaningful design - a match made in heaven

Biophilic design, for instance, can translate as meaningful in so many ways - it is based on natural, healthy principles, sustainabilitywellness, which is why we strongly believe that it can be a good start in your search for your own urban oasis. 

A wellness design space can activate the five basic senses helping to ensure you feel happy, motivated and relaxed in your residence or workplace, or why not, even a gym!

Designing a hotel gym or resort fitness facilities

INTRODUCTION TO HOTEL GYM DESIGN

Designing a successful hotel gym layout or fitness facilities for a resort is quite a different skill set to being, say, a hotel architect or designer, despite the understandable desire on the part of such firms to own the gym space creatively as well as the common areas, rooms and hospitality spaces.

It’s no surprise that most hotels simply give the exercise space or yoga studio over to an equipment supplier, install lighting and air con, neutral flooring and the job is done; gym designers are nowhere to be seen.

It therefore takes a certain type of hotel or resort to seek out a specialist hotel gym designer to go one step further and really consider the gym design architecture.

This was the case for us when Singita Safari lodges contacted us back in 2018, and again with our current client work in Italy for a new sustainable luxury wellness hotel brand opening in 2021.

VIU Hotel, milano gym design - wood flooring, neutral grey walls and ceiling, Technogym equipment

DO HOTELS NEED A SPECIALIST GYM DESIGNER?

In our experience with gym design, the most likely candidates for seeking out a specialist hotel gym designer are high-end hospitality brands, and those with an existing connection to wellness, health or a natural lifestyle.

They may be looking to upgrade their gym offer to become a Unique Selling Point, rather than simply following the usual option of a lower-ground, space with no natural light packed full of Technogym cardio and strength equipment.. sound familiar?

Luxury hotels and resorts increasingly see the standard of gym and fitness studio that their guests are using when at home in their primary residence, then compare that with the gym experience on offer at their property and realise the gap is too wide to ignore.

DEFINING A CONCEPT FOR A HOTEL GYM

Not every successful hotel gym is created equal. We have identified a number of ways to differentiate a hospitality fitness offer and to add value to the guest experience whilst ensuring a hotel stands out from the crowd in a competitive market.

The key component is a well defined gym concept that connects the hotel guest’s fitness preferences and their expectations of what a hotel gym will do for them, with the personality of the hotel in question.

This can be a delicate balancing act but all too often the default mode is to go with the classic Technogym equipment set-up with mirrored walls, TV screens, bright lighting and an aggressive air con system. This is pure vanilla, you could literally be in any hotel gym in the world. Guest motivation levels will likely fall off a cliff and workout times will drop. The industry can and should do better.

Go too far in the other direction though and the risk is that a guest feels lost, uncertain or out of place in the gym. Luxury hotels are about frictionless guest experiences, meaning this could become a pain point assuming no staff are on hand to explain how everything works.

soul cycle fitness studio design, 1 hotel south beach, miami

BRANDED HOTEL GYM CONCEPTS

Just as branded F&B concepts provide hotel operators with the halo effect of being associated with a world-class dining concept, a big name gym or fitness studio brand can do something similar if chosen well.

Having a cult fitness name such as SoulCycle operating a spinning studio at street level no doubt helped 1 Hotel South Beach, Miami to foster closer links amongst a certain local demographic for example, whilst also providing hotel guests with an on-site solution for the type of experiential workout they are used to at home - and the polar opposite of a solo workout in a soulless hotel gym!

London’s BXR, a boutique fitness concept built around boxing’s heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua, collaborated with Daios Cove Resort in Crete to create a retreat concept complete with a dedicated on-site functional fitness training area on a converted outdoor tennis court.

This is an example of a software-heavy proposition, where there is in fact relatively little hotel gym design in the collaboration, meaning less CAPEX into hardware for the hotel.

Where BXR delivers a killer jab-hook-cross however is with its aspirational positioning, expert boxing / conditioning coaches and an existing tribe of loyal followers in London, ensuring the Daios hotel can tap into a new market segment during its quieter shoulder seasons.

functional fitness gym by at six hotel, stockholm

HOTEL GYM FLOOR SPACE - HOW BIG IS BIG ENOUGH?

A lowest common denominator approach would suggest that 50m2 is sufficient floor space for a modestly sized boutique hotel of up to around 50 rooms. Given this is not a revenue generating facility, the inclination is to prioritize a spa or treatment room first, squeezing the gym into whatever corner is left once priority has been given to sales revenues. This is an all too common conundrum. Our response is usually - “well, let’s make the gym so great that it has a direct, positive impact on the guest’s stay!”

There are of course gym usage formulas we could propose for how big a hotel gym design should be based on the total number of rooms, average hotel occupancy and an estimate of how many or what % of guests actually make it to the hotel gym during their stay (probably far less than you’d imagine.. especially in spaces with no visible signs of an interior designer being involved!).

This approach does not account for less tangible factors though, such as a boutique hotel owner’s passion for fitness, or a resort’s particular brand.

As a rule of thumb however, a gym needs to be a minimum of 25m2 and only really becomes a genuine feature from around 50m2, whilst at the other end of the spectrum, even the most generous resort gyms are not going to offer more than 500m2 in total including an allocation for a swimming pool.

A new generation of dedicated fitness hotels such as Equinox Hotels are challenging that distinction, integrating fitness into the guest experience at various touch points during the customer journey. For most boutique size hotels however, an allocation of around 100m2 for a gym is a reasonable figure to aim for.

BXR retreat outdoor hotel gym design, crete

THE HOTEL GYM EQUIPMENT QUESTION

Gym equipment suppliers will, perhaps understandably, sell as much of their equipment as possible to a less-informed hotel owner, insisting on the presence of endless isolation weight machines, from leg extensions, to leg curls, chest press and lat pull down machines.

The trend towards more open space in gym design does not sit well with a sales rep on commission. So what’s the answer? Hire a specialist hotel gym designer who is paid to create and implement a unique gym concept, ensuring a more neutral perspective on what equipment needs to be in the hotel gym.

For example, a functional fitness inspired facility would focus on cardio machines, free weights, movement areas and a rig for attaching equipment to - be it a punching bag, ropes, or a loaded barbell. This negates or at least drastically reduces the need for isolation machines, meaning a lower overall CAPEX investment that more than covers the hotel gym designer’s fees.

For the right kind of hotel with a younger, urban demographic, this type of concept would be far more in line with the type of training they are used to. See the above image from the At Six Hotel in Stockholm for an example of how to get it right.

On the other hand, clearly this would NOT be applicable for a classic 5-star hotel gym design oriented towards a more mature demographic who may be working around injuries or limited mobility - in which case, a wider selection of cardio machines would be in order, as well as some isolation machines and perhaps more space given over to mobility and balance work.

To enquire about our hotel gym design services contact us via email here.

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Further Reading

• Hotel Gym Design - A Consultant's View

• Gym Posts

• The Mental Empowerment Office Gym With Katharina Naumann

• Fitness Posts

• Posts In Gyms

• Sustainability & Wellbeing Advisory For Real Estate & Hospitality

• Wellness Real Estate and Interiors Consultants

• Posts Tagged Fitness

• Best New Hotels Resorts Using Biophilic Design Interiors

• Posts Tagged Exercise

• Sustainable Hotels In The Uk - Independently Owned

• Posts Tagged Hotels

• Sustainable Boutique Hotel Brands UK

• Indoor Air Quality In Gyms

• Benefits Of Active Design In The Workplace

• Winning The Mental Game In Physical Activity Programs With Martin Ebner

• Building Wellness & Sustainability With Evalore Spain

• Well Building Standard: Movement v08 Physical Activity Spaces & Equipment

• Wellness Eco-Luxury Resorts With Revivo

• Mental Wellbeing Clinic Design - The Soke, London

• Opo Wellness Content For Hotels And Real Estate Developments

• The Aficionados On Sustainability At Independent Hotels

• Posts tagged Gym

Multisensory Design - Interior Design Approach to Workplace Wellness

Our senses are the very first receptors that introduce us to the space we are in. The feeling we have when we enter a new building or room comes from what we hear, smell, or see, all aspects of human perception. This is the core information for the multisensory design, created to adjust the interior design to our senses.

Let us introduce you to the multisensory approach to workplace wellness, which should provide the best conditions for people working hours, increasing their productivity and putting them in a good mood.

What is Multisensory Design, and How Does the Idea Start?

Multisensory interior design aims to engage multiple human senses, creating spaces that evoke pleasant experiences beyond visual aesthetics. While sight is often prioritized, this approach recognizes the significance of other senses in shaping our perception of a space, such as temperature, smells, sounds, textures, and flavors.

Origins of Multisensory Design

The idea of multisensory design emerged from realizing that human experiences involve multiple senses, prompting designers to consider a holistic approach that integrates sensory features and qualities. Through sensory integration and using natural materials, this design philosophy seeks to enhance well-being and foster deeper connections between individuals and their environments by focusing on sensory qualities.

Connecting Senses to Feel Good 

The idea is to connect all senses when designing a room, apartment, or building. Doing it right, we make sure that we will feel good every time we enter that space while having more energy. 

Naturally, this idea got a chance to change our workplaces, considering how much time we spend there. Workplace wellness is one of the most important topics in interior design, and that's why different approaches strive to provide the best work conditions. 

Workplace Wellness Improved by Multisensory Interior Design

As we said, workplace wellness is a great field for interior design innovation, and that’s why multisensory design has its idea of creating a good and healthy working environment. Innovative solutions such as the multisensory virtual reality apparatus can also be explored to enhance workplace wellness.

The idea is to improve productivity, to minimize the stress, and to create a space where all the workers are in peace. For instance, removing all the sources of distracting sounds will help the workers to concentrate. Also, good lighting and a peaceful background sound can increase calmness and productivity.

The solutions created by multisensory approaches not only remove the bad impact on our health, but they also tend to connect the sources of good and calming feelings that awake our senses.

The Impact of Multisensory Design Divided into Senses

To describe the benefits of multisensory design as precisely as possible, we should describe its impact on each sense. 

Let's get into it!

Smell - where the memory is hidden 

The scent is the sense most strongly connected to our memory; that's why we can travel so fast in our memory every time we recognize a smell. 

Have you ever noticed how some retail stores or shopping malls have signature scents that make them recognizable? This is how these places create a memorable multisensory experience for their customers. 

The same thing can be done in the workplace. Choosing a pleasant and calming signature scent will help all the workers feel better whenever they come to work because they'll connect the smell with a good feeling. 

Sound - create good vibrations

The worst triggers at work are probably bad and distracting sounds. This can be a big problem in open space offices. That's why implementing multisensory design can solve this problem. 

You can play appropriate music in common spaces to create a feeling of divided offices in open spaces. You should pick the music without vocals or words if you want to concentrate. Different companies can choose different music based on their field of work.

You can use sound-masking technologies and materials that minimize sound concentration to eliminate distracting noises. These materials are often natural and are part of healthy buildings' interiors.

Touch - where the comfy feeling comes from 

At the workplace, we get in touch with many materials, so there is no chance to avoid the ones we find unpleasant unless we consider using a multisensory design. 

The basic idea here is to choose comfortable materials for the things workers need to come into contact with. The advantage is natural materials, such as wood, are softly crafted to feel comfortable. For the fabric, always use natural ones, like cotton and silky thread. 

When decorating a workplace, you can play with aesthetics, materials, and fabrics.  If you have a chill area at work, you can add comfy sofas and little wooden coffee tables. 

Sight - look at the brighter side of work 

Regarding architecture and design, sight comes first, without a doubt. Aesthetics is critical, but multisensory design gives it another level. 

The multisensory approach suggests visual access to daylight and nature to create a wellness interior at work. Also, it is important to provide exposure to sunshine. This helps us maintain better concentration and allows us to synthesize vitamin D, which promotes bone health and reduces inflammation. 

Colours are also essential for our sight. The warm-toned ones have biophilic effects on the workplace. You should be careful when choosing colours for walls, or big elements in your office furniture. Plants can also give a nice and calm tone to your office.

One of the most important things is to avoid a sense of crowded space, which is why you should forget about adding too many details to your workplace.

Find Balance and Make a Perfect Workplace Using a Multisensory Approach

After dividing all senses to create perfect conditions for each, the final touch will connect everything to stimulate synesthesia - overall enjoyment for all senses. 

That perfect balance and pleasure for all your senses is what multisensory design is created for and what will bring you the ultimate goal of happiness and productivity at work.

Benefits of Using Multisensory Design in Interior Design

Enhanced User Experience

Multisensory design enriches the user experience by engaging multiple senses, creating a more immersive and memorable environment. By incorporating elements that appeal to sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste, interior spaces become more inviting and enjoyable for occupants.

Promotion of Well-Being

Multisensory design has been linked to improved well-being, as it can positively influence mood, reduce stress, and enhance overall satisfaction with a space. Natural light, soothing sounds, and pleasant aromas create a calming and rejuvenating atmosphere, promoting mental and emotional wellness.

Increased Brand Engagement

Incorporating multisensory elements into interior design can strengthen brand engagement and loyalty. By creating unique sensory experiences that align with brand values and identity, businesses can leave a lasting impression on customers, fostering a deeper connection and encouraging repeat visits or purchases.

Enhanced Creativity and Innovation

The multisensory design encourages creativity and innovation by challenging designers to think beyond traditional aesthetics and consider the holistic experience of a space. By exploring the potential of all senses, designers can push boundaries, experiment with new ideas, and create truly distinctive and impactful environments.

Improved Functionality and Accessibility

Consideration of multiple senses in interior design can lead to spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also more functional and accessible. By addressing sensory needs and preferences, such as providing adequate lighting, minimizing noise distractions, and incorporating tactile elements for navigation, designers can create environments that accommodate diverse users and promote inclusivity.

Why Multi-sensory Design Helps Clients Stick to your Brand?

Multi-sensory design enriches workplace wellness by engaging all the senses, creating a positive atmosphere that fosters brand loyalty. By incorporating sensory aspects such as natural light, music, and pleasing scents, brands elevate the sensory experience, leaving a lasting impression on individuals and cultivating strong connections.

Incorporating elements that appeal to the five senses, including vision, sound, touch, and scent, enhances sensory engagement and creates memorable experiences. Whether through the design of common spaces or eliminating unwanted noise, brands strive to curate the ultimate sensory experience for users, fostering a personal connection that encourages long-term loyalty.

Through multi-sensory design, brands aim to provide individuals with a sensory-rich environment that appeals to their experiences and preferences. By paying attention to sensory details such as texture, visual aesthetics, and good smells, brands create a world where users feel valued and immersed in an unparalleled sensory journey.

What is ‘Non Rhythmic Sensory Stimuli in Design

Non rhythmic sensory stimuli is biophilic design in nature, it triggers visual stimuli which makes people feel calm and relaxed.

The natural environment is always in motion,  something is always changing, so nature is never still. This natural flow is also known as a  natural rhythm, and it is a part of a human being too, only we don't think about it often enough. 

Do you find yourself tired spending hours in front of your TV or computer, listening to the static sound you can't avoid? People spend a lot of time indoors, surrounded by all these static sounds of technology.

That's why we need balance, and the key for it is NRS in interior design. 

Understanding Non-Rhythmic Sensory Stimuli and the Natural Sounds We Need

Non rhythmic sensory stimuli or ‘NRSS’ are a part of the concept and they are created as a substance for calming nature sound we can hear outdoors. This imitation of natural rhythm is important not only for creating a pleasant vibe in a room but also for providing health and wellbeing benefits by increasing our wellbeing, happiness, and overall health.

Have you ever noticed how watching a fish tank makes you calm? Or how the raindrops sound good on a rainy day? Nature is made of all these sounds dynamic patterns and motions, and we are perfectly aligned with it. So NRSS in design strives to redeem this lack of natural sound by creating a space without too many static sounds.

How the Installation of NRSS in Design Works? 

These stimuli from the natural environment create natural rhythm in different workspaces, apartments, and indoor surroundings, we spend the most time in. This can be arranged with technology solutions, such as designed lighting animations with natural elements and sounds.

There are examples of the digital garden, with the sounds and motions that imitate natural ones. This kind of technology solution is often implemented in places such as waiting rooms, airports, doctor’s offices, where people often feel a lack of calmness.

Technology Free Solutions for the Implementation of the NRSS 

Without technology, there is still a way to create a natural rhythm indoors and be perfectly aligned with nature.

Indoor Plants

This is all a part of the wellness interior concept, that you can try, for instance, by putting a lot of plants in the room and creating a natural breeze.

Biophilic designers often work with horticulturists because plants are one of the biggest sources of the natural rhythm we can bring indoors.

Swaying grass or shimmering water features implemented in the interior design, which mimic natural motion, can also help you feel calm and relaxed.

Animals as Creators of Natural Rhythm

Interesting thing is that animals can also be participants in creating NRS in design of interior environments. As we’ve already mentioned, fish tanks are perfect for creating a relaxing vibe in the room. The motions of the fishes are so pleasant to watch, and the colours are usually pretty calming.

Examples of Biophilic Design That Evoke NRSS

Natural Lighting 

Creating a beautiful vibe with perfectly natural sounds and motions, wouldn't be much without good lighting. As you may predict so far, natural lighting is very important, so bringing natural light source as much as it can be brought is a big part of this story.  It fosters a connection to the outdoors, promoting well-being and productivity.

Advantage goes to healthy buildings because these are created from scratch to be the best example of biophilic design.

Water Features

Incorporating water features, such as fountains or reflecting pools, leverages simulated stimuli to enhance sensory experiences within the built environment. The repetitive natural motion of flowing water creates a mental respite for occupants, promoting environmental health and user well-being. These rhythmic sensory elements provide a contrast to the static beings of the office space, offering visitors exposure to non-rhythmic sensory stimuli that evoke a connection to natural environments.

Even a stunning computer generated waterfall is satisfying to watch after exposing too much screen time when you're at the office.

Exposed Elevators Inside Buildings

Exposed elevators within buildings offer a unique architectural element, integrating natural motion with the functional aspect of transportation. By providing transparency and connectivity between floors, these elevators stimulate the senses and promote user engagement with the built environment. The overall eleavator journey view might be brief but welcome distraction.

Their presence leverages naturally occurring stimuli, such as programmable lighting animations, to create a visually stimulating experience with shortened focal depth, inviting occupants to interact with their surroundings and fostering mental respite in the bustling urban environment.

Dichroic Glass

Dichroic glass, with its ability to reflect and transmit multiple colors depending on viewing angles, creates an ever-changing visual experience reminiscent of natural phenomena like the play of light on water or through foliage. Its incorporation into design elements adds vibrancy and intrigue, stimulating the senses and evoking a connection to the outdoors within indoor spaces.

Dichroic glass can increase sensory stimuli if a glass wall is not convenient in a rural environments.

Indoor Plants Integration

Incorporating indoor plants into the design not only enhances aesthetics but also positively impacts air quality, decreases blood pressure and mental well-being within an open plan office environment. These green companions contribute to a biophilic environment, reducing stress and facilitating creative thought processes among occupants. By bringing elements of nature indoors, they counteract the visually monotonous effects of digital technology, promoting user well-being and providing whimsical movements that rejuvenate the space.

Glass Walls for Outdoor Connectivity

Integrating glass walls blurs the boundary between indoor and outdoor spaces, providing an opportunity for occupants to regain correct focus and alleviate physical discomfort in an open plan office environment. By offering unobstructed views of the rural environment and unexpected stimuli, these installations facilitate creative thought and enhance user well-being. Furthermore, the presence of glass walls supports biophilic design considerations, inviting visitors to experience whimsical movements of kinetic sculptures while promoting connectivity with nature.

How Does Natural Rhythm Affect Our Health? 

After explaining what non rhythmic sensory stimuli stands for, alongside how to implant it in our indoor environment, let’s explain why you should even consider this kind of interior design.

Natural sounds and motions are important for our health because a part of our perception picks up the rhythm of our environment. That’s why the natural rhythm has been shown to improve our heart rate, improve blood pressure too, and have a positive effect on the sympathetic nervous system. Also, natural, such stimuli and sounds help us feel more calm, happy and relaxed.

Even if you can’t see the difference, your subconscious can. It is because of one very interesting phenomenon known cognitive neuroscience as the peripheral field of vision, which is linked to sympathetic nervous system activity.

Where are the Peripheral Zones of our Field of Vision?

If our computer is in front of us, that means that it is in the centre of our field of vision, everything that is set on the left and right is in the peripheral zones of our field of peripheral vision.

The important thing thatNRS in the design stand for is putting all correct focus on the plants and sources of natural sound in these zones. By doing this you make sure that your subconscious will “pick up” all the good vibes natural rhythm is creating in surrounding environment.

So, if you want to implement some of subtle benefits of the natural rhythm factors in your working or living space, you should follow these tips in order to feel the health benefits.

Where Should you Implement Non Rhythmic Sensory Stimuli? 

To answer this question ask yourself what place makes you feel stressed or tired? If it is your home - implement some of these stimuli there. Unexpected sensory stimuli, such as rhythmic and moving artwork, can create a calming and safe environment. However if it is a workplace, then you should consider some changes there.

Not only does non rhythmic stimuli bring you better health conditions, but it also makes you more productive and energetic by incorporating objects or materials in consistent yet unpredictable motion. Additionally, visual stimuli can prevent low-level physiological stresses by periodically adjusting short visual focus focal lengths. So, a great idea is to follow these rules in creating space for work out too.

This text should help you to understand better environmental psychology and the health benefits of natural rhythm, and to start to think about our subconscious, that always strives to be perfectly aligned with nature. When the same sound is repeated in a static environment, non-rhythmic sensory stimuli can improve visual comfort and productivity, and even help in healthcare settings to relax and distract individuals.

3D interior design concept and how it benefits your business

Do you lack form, space, texture, or even light, colour and patterns in the making of your interior design concept? The answer you seek is 3D visualisation and an experienced guide to lead you through the magical world of interior conceptualization.

3D visualisation is an easy to use tool that balances out the art of interior design and the science of taking all the elements and aspects of planning into account - for a uniquely build and decorated environment to work, live or train in.

With 3D visualisation, Biofilico balances these aspects to create a feeling of equilibrium. We harmonically link the elements and emphasise the parts that are in more “danger” to seem either scattered or boring to an occupant. Proportion and scale are the two most important factors used to create symmetry and an interesting “flow” in the room.

Paired with that knowledge and practice, Biofilico team creates beautiful and pleasant homes to live in, with proportions already present in nature! See how a carefully conducted 3D interior design concept can benefit your homes, gyms or hospitality spaces.

How can we benefit from the 3D interior design concept?

The look on some virtual reality space and the amazing feeling when blank sheets and spaces become rendered into comfortable and spacious rooms with texture, details, colours, implemented with furniture, lights, furnishing, floors etc. - in everything!

As professionals, interior designers are expected to use the best rendering tools in the market for their clients. 3D interior rendering is undoubtedly a gateway into a market success! Having a look at a 3D realisation of some future building, anytime and anywhere, can be the ultimate decision-maker. 

Maximizing the value of interior design and increase profit

Figuring out what a customer wants is vital when contemplating any 3D interior design concept, whether for a whole building or “just” decorating a home, office or you have a completely contemporary gym interior design concept in mind.

By using 3D interior renderings, combined with good communication skills, you can narrow in down clients wishes in a short period. With the 3D interior design concept, you make it possible for the clients to see and conceptualise fast, giving them the nudge to hire you on the spot.

Giving something upfront - knowing what to expect

While a variety of technologies make images appear in a more printed and non-alive way, the 3D imaging gives a greater sense and depth of spaces. People feel like they can touch the final product, and this 3D possibility gives them hope and certainty that everything will go according to their wishes and plans.

In a 3D interior design concept, you feel as you could walk right into the environment, the brain perceives and accepts the illusion of greater depth. The experience could also be augmented by interacting with physical wheels, buttons, dials etc.

The only three reasons why you need 3D interior design

As previously mentioned, a 3D interior design concept is a form of configuration technology used to virtually and better present a product, offer od customize our interior concept ideas to a client.

It is used in many industries for creating excellent graphic content consisting of images, diagrams, animations etc. - overall contributing to better communication and understanding of “digital real-life” experience.

3D visualization software plays a great significant role in architecture and interior design by making the working process faster and more effective.

Fast adaptation of alterations - reflects professionalism

A 3D visualization is a great tool for demonstrating whether a prototype or a finished product. Providing fast conceptualization and solutions is a sure winning strategy, and it has been saluted by many clients.

To be able to quickly and consistently adapt to new situations, without losing the contract, we utilize 3D interior renderings. Digital visualizations can also be developed on the spot or altered later on.

Highlight key points - meeting customer concerns and wishes

Interior designers capable of establishing the goal for a client are more likely to win a contract. With 3D rendering, they can manufacture and construct elements, diminishing the possibility for errors because everything is conceivable with 3D visualization technology.

Provide multiple version upfront - shows resourcefulness

Furthermore, each render we make is customizable and adaptable for making it possible for you (and us) to show your capabilities and resourcefulness. Clients are known for their wishes to take a glimpse of their project before the work even starts, and 3D interior design concept provides the opportunity.

One or multiple layouts of the building, exterior or interior design concept can be visualised with lighting, textures and geographical station even before the development process takes place.

CGI and 3D visualisation within Biofilico design studios 

Interior designers within the Biofilico team are delivering a special kind of interior design concept, based on a biophilic understanding of the world and inhabitation. Our goal is to obtain wellness and sustainable design services to our offices, homes, gyms and any hospitality sector.

With a network of talented people, architects, graphic and interior designers, we have built a professional background in real estate development and hospitality, with multiple interior design concept ideas and examples to back it up.

If you choose us as your green real estate and building consultants, you can expect contemporary CGI (Computer-generated imagery) and 3D visualisation of our interior design concept - Biofilico concept, with the incorporation of key elements such as the use of plants and flowers, colours, patterns, textures and materials, as well as circadian lighting. 

The final piece of a word: by utilizing 3D interior renderings, we offer an effective method for creating life-like and real-time buildings. 3D visualisation makes it possible for you us, designers and you as a customer to transform our ideas into a contract and winning digital impression. 

3D visualisations are versatile enough to withstand any alterations a client may request or insist on. Together we come up with a plan to create a unique atmosphere and the aesthetics of your interior design concept.

LEED certification - learn all about LEED rating system

In this article we will explain the basics of the U.S. Green Building Council & LEED and how green building benefits both our lives and the planet we inhabit. We will look specifically at the LEED Certification, without doubt the dominant green building qualification in the global real estate industry today. 

LEED buildings consider both the human aspect, working to create a healthy indoor environment for its occupiers, while also reducing the building’s environmental impact - from waste management, to energy use, water consumption, materials selection and more.

From motivation boosts to an increase of life expectancy, living and working in a healthy environment benefits humans in a variety of ways. Spending eight hours sitting in a poorly lit office filled with stale air on the other hand, not only impacts the productivity of the office workers but can have a negative affect on their lives outside of the building too.

Working and living in poor indoor conditions (often referred to as ‘sick building syndrome’) has been linked to numerous psychosomatic issues including migraines, insomnia, stress and obesity. 

By implementing the LEED green building approach, you are minimizing these risks by optimizing an indoor space for better performance, creating a healthier environment for you and your team, whilst minimizing negative impact on the planet. 

What does LEED certification mean? 

Developed by the non-profit organisation named U.S. Green Building Council, LEED certification is a “green building” certification program for the real estate industry. 

LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design and it is an internationally recognized eco building certification which includes a unique rating system for the construction, design, maintenance and functionality of environmentally responsible buildings.

How does a LEED building make a difference?

Through different media outlets we hear news about the fragile state of our ecosystems on a daily basis. Real estate is a major contributor to the future health of our planet and so LEED identifies the key metrics that environmentally responsible buildings need to consider in order to promote the wellbeing of its users as well as that of the planet.  

The goals of LEED certified buildings include:

• Energy savings 

• Water efficiency 

• CO2 emissions reduction

• Improved indoor environmental quality 

• Stewardship of natural resources and the sensitivity to their impacts 

What is the purpose of LEED? 

Improving the real estate industry’s impact on environmental and human health metrics is LEED’s mission. Healthy building certification gives real estate developers and building operators with a framework for practical and efficient building design, construction and maintenance solutions. 

In conclusion, LEED’s main objective is providing a safe, sustainable and productive living or work environment. 

Advantages and solutions

A common misconception around eco-friendly real estate is that it equates to additional CAPEX and OPEX costs for the building owner, as well as adding to a project’s delivery timeline.

In reality, LEED can be a long-term cost-saver when applied correctly and integrated into the development process, something known as Integrative Design, resulting in highly efficient commercial and residential buildings that are in a way ‘future-proofed’. 

Many ESG property funds are now looking for such sustainable credentials when making real estate investments, another reason to build green.

How has the LEED rating system evolved over time?

Ever since it was introduced, LEED has been in a process of constant evolution to more accurately represent and implement the latest sustainable building techniques and technologies, as well as healthy building principles with a human or social focus. 

Four different versions of the LEED rating system have been released over the years, right up to the current LEED V4.1 in use today. 

Accredited Professionals (APs) and Green Associates (GAs) are required to stay up to date with the latest iterations of the system in order to ensure their work in the real estate sector is delivered in line with current benchmarks in green building excellence.

Green Building Certification levels

LEED ratings are classified into five different categories which in turn have a number of sub-categories used to reflect the specific genre of green building project in question, with the prerequisites: 

Green Building Design & Construction 

• LEED for New Construction

• LEED for Core & Shell

• LEED for Schools

• LEED for Retail: New Construction and Major Renovations

• LEED for Healthcare

Green Interior Design & Construction

• LEED for Commercial Interiors

• LEED for Retail: Commercial Interiors

Green Building Operations & Maintenance

• LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance

Green Neighborhood Development

• LEED for Neighborhood Development

Green Home Design and Construction

• LEED for Homes 

The various LEED rating scales are: 

• Certified: 40-49 points

• Silver: 50-59 points 

• Gold: 60-79 points

• Platinum: 80 points or above

LEED certification process

After fulfilling the previously stated requirements, certification is admitted by the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI) which handles the third-party verification of a project’s concurrence with the LEED requirements.

LEED certification fees are applied during the process of registering the building and submitting the design and construction applications. The price of the fees can vary depending on the size of the project starting from around 2000 USD.

The entire application process is then handled through an online service which is filled with PDF forms that allow project teams to fill out credit forms and upload additional documentation. 

Why is LEED certification important?

Even though we have previously stated the numerous benefits of environmental design, it’s crucial to mention that the biggest advantage of LEED is providing a sustainable framework for construction, design and maintenance of new and existing buildings. 

We are great supporters of and professionals trained in the LEED certification process. Biofilico offers eco interior design services, green building consultancy and ESG advisory services for real estate development funds. 

If you wish to discuss a certain type of certification for a real estate project, contact us here.

Acoustic comfort and its importance for wellness — biofilico wellness interiors

Acoustic comfort and acoustic discomfort are increasingly important topics among architects and interior designers due to their roles in boosting productivity and reducing low levels of anxiety for regular users of an indoor environment, be it an office or home.

Why is it so important?

Well, for the beginning of our written journey to acknowledge acoustic as one of the most important factors to relieve pain such as headache, lack of concentration or annoyance - let’s focus on how acoustic comfort in buildings has been finally linked to humans, and not just the mere isolation process. Exposure to excessive noise can lead to physical and mental health problems such as fatigue, headaches, cardiovascular disease, irritability, anxiety, and stress.

The acoustic was analyzed as a physical factor of the space, such as lighting and temperature.

Acoustics is not only there to offer performative products in terms of sound absorbency, but it’s also there as a tool to study the space, the environment, and finally the habits of people, all in order to provide and guarantee the best indoor comfort - acoustic comfort and wellness!

How to  improve our acoustic comfort

Investing in an indoor acoustic comfort concept, we put the wholesome wellbeing and occupant comfort in the focus! By addressing the absolute necessity of the inclusion of acoustic wellness among the priorities of each building project, we can create interesting acoustic themes and build new solutions for the future indoor scenery. Emphasizing occupant comfort is crucial for physical and mental wellbeing, as it impacts noise levels, sound insulation, and sound absorption.

If we are cold - we recognize it by putting a sweater on. if the sun is too strong - we will immediately wear sunglasses, but - what can we do to improve our acoustic comfort?

Sound absorption products

The innovation the studies based on the importance of acoustic comfort for wellness have been recognized in architecture, building and design, with a large choice of different solutions to win the acoustic comfort challenge and make any project, and any place made for human inhabitation, more acoustically healthy and suiting. Sound masking, also known as 'white' or 'pink noise', is used to raise ambient background noise levels within various institutions to improve acoustics, aid concentration, and increase speech privacy levels.

With a wide range of sound absorbers, such as acoustic ceiling tiles, carpeting, furniture finishes, and curtains, designed to meet the different needs of various spaces: from offices to restaurants, meeting rooms to hospitals, libraries to airports, and create a space that is friendly, pleasant, open and fluid.

Technical details - colours, shapes and 3D visualisation

Shapes and colours of carpets, floorings or decorative elements also have enhanced acoustic comfort implications. Factors such as structure-borne and airborne noise, sound pressure levels, frequency of the noise, and noise sources all contribute to the acoustical conditions that influence acoustic comfort. Different noise sources with the same physical characteristics can be perceived differently by individuals, making it crucial to consider their specific effects and frequencies on acoustic comfort. Taking the soundscape approach through 3D visualisation to a study acoustic comfort for wellness can identify spaces that need most of the acoustic interventions and improvements.

Made in different colours, finishing and shapes, all the products made to fit into the high acoustic performance are usually installed to reduce volume.

The use of ecological materials to reduce noise pollution

Besides this strong attention to technical details, acoustic wellness philosophy is also about the use of ecological, sustainable, renewable, green materials. Traffic noise significantly impacts acoustic comfort in various spaces, including workplaces and residential buildings.

That’s an important point in the development of new products and projects for the future of the niche such as sustainable interior design. Additionally, optimizing for acoustic comfort often goes hand in hand with improving indoor air quality, ensuring a holistic approach to building design that enhances overall occupant satisfaction.

Tools and materials for sound control to improve acoustic comfort

The right materials already exist, now it is only time to put them in good use and make a completely new culture. These materials also have heat-insulating properties that make them more environmentally friendly

They come in different shapes like panels, rolls, nets, paddings or slabs, with the possibility to be built in or multilayered in any structures such as underfloors or partitions who divide walls.

The livability of acoustic performance determines the quality of life of everyone who uses that space. High standards in sound control are essential for achieving acoustic comfort. Strategies for reducing unwanted noises include using sound-absorbing materials, installing acoustic panels, and implementing noise barriers. The time has come to stop correcting acoustic comfort in buildings “a posteriori”, and cure the damage upon being made, and become acquainted with the process of prevention.

Eco walls 

Eco walls can create a colourful and light acoustic barrier for the walls and ceiling, maintaining the concept of freedom in any space, but adding some special feeling of wellness. Poor acoustics in workplace environments can lead to distractions, stress, and interference with team interaction and normal work routines.

They fit harmoniously into spaces of multiple functions, such as offices, homes, hospitals or restaurants, gyms or wherever you need the acoustic comfort. Eco walls help manage background noise levels, improving acoustics and aiding concentration.

Eco walls combine curved surfaces and they have a characteristic style, with the density and porosity of some of the stone materials, with sound-absorbent qualities thus contributing to improving acoustic wellness better than traditional stone panels

These walls allow mixing insulation and the absorption of sound waves which makes them naturally fit for acoustic comfort and wellness.

Panels for enhanced acoustic performance

Panels made of natural and eco-friendly materials are the perfect combination of innovation and flexibility, ecology and sound absorption, with the final goal to improve the acoustic comfort of the workplace and relax spaces by reducing airborne noise. Noise exposure can lead to sleep disturbance in residential spaces, significantly impacting residents' health and well-being.

In need of open space?

Eco-friendly panels become an elegant, modular system, which allows the creation of workstations and separators. The 3D-looking arrangement is pleasant and guarantees high acoustic performance.

If hung from the ceiling, these panels create a nice layout, able to exploit the acoustic performance and modify the refraction of sound waves.

Spaces that have been engineered and designed with the proper acoustics can make a huge difference in people’s daily lives and improve their health and wellness.

Acoustic is something that shouldn’t be ignored!

A bedroom where the noise generated from traffic is cancelled, for example, promotes a night of better sleep and rest. Productivity soars in offices where noise doesn’t interfere. It’s a fact that people escape the rigours of the outside world by spending more time inside, even while working or exercising.

Biofilico can provide a full range of solutions tailored to the unique needs of working spaces and the structural attributes of residences. Through thoughtful examination of a space and its occupants, we create a better health and wellness atmosphere in homes and prestigious commercial environments.

Interior Design Environment: The Role of Environmental Sustainability

Are you concerned about your home’s environmental impact or the levels of productivity and creativity in your office?

Maybe it’s time to consider a more eco-friendly interior design in real estate, with concepts such as energy and water efficiency, waste reduction, and recyclable materials implementation - not only for reduced environmental impact but for the positive impact on human health and wellbeing.

Biofilico designs for people, the planet, and your profit! Our actions address human health, environmental sustainability, and financial gain.

As the world becomes increasingly urbanized, our lifestyle conveniences and wishes are increased while access to nature and green spaces decreases. As a result, we have a fundamentally disconnected evolutionary flow, with many problems (mainly diseases) tightly connected to it.

In further text, you will find more information concerning the importance of environment and sustainability and its impact on our lives through interior design and the places we live in.

What is Environmental Sustainability?

When we talk about environmental sustainability, meaning to address all aspects of our lives - we need to include everything, from eco-homes, sourcing our supplies, renewable energy, and environmentally conscious communities to low-impact furniture and clothing.

But what is environmental sustainability?

The meaning of environmental sustainability has many definitions used by green groups, businesses, and even politicians and activists, but the concept and principles of sustainable development were first introduced in 1987 in the “Our Common Future” report, prepared for the World Commission on Environment and Development.

This includes sustainable design principles, which emphasize creating concepts and spaces that reduce environmental impact, use sustainable materials, and consider long-term environmental and socioeconomic development.

Significance of Environmental Sustainability

Environmental sustainability is paramount due to the detrimental impacts individuals can inflict on our surroundings. It necessitates collective care for the flora, fauna, air, and water bodies that constitute our planet’s ecosystem. Minimizing energy consumption through sustainable architecture and interior design practices is crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting energy efficiency.

Preservation of Biodiversity

Environmental sustainability safeguards the rich diversity of life forms and ecosystems, ensuring the continued existence of vital species and habitats.

Protection of Natural Resources

By prioritizing sustainability, we conserve essential resources like water, land, and energy, ensuring their availability for future generations and mitigating the risk of resource depletion. Using sustainable materials, such as furniture made from recycled sources like reclaimed wood and recycled products, plays a crucial role in conserving natural resources.

Mitigation of Climate Change

Environmental sustainability efforts are crucial in combatting climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting renewable energy sources, and implementing carbon-neutral practices.

Promotion of Human Health

A sustainable environment fosters human health and well-being by providing clean air, water, and food, reducing exposure to pollutants, and minimizing the risk of environmental hazards. Sustainable design plays a crucial role in improving indoor air quality through factors like passive heating, cooling, ventilation design, and natural light.

Global Collaboration

Environmental sustainability initiatives occur on various scales, from local community projects to international agreements, highlighting the global commitment to preserving our planet for future generations.

How does Environmental Sustainability Affect Social Responsibility?

The relationship between people and spaces is based on psychological and physical parameters and greatly impacts improving life quality. Targeting social welfare and happiness through environmental sustainability is a measure that results in higher levels of employee creativity, motivation, and well-being.

The most important criterion for saving and healing the planet is the selection of materials used in building and decorating. Every material has its function, so materials used in hospitals and shopping malls should differ due to the sterilization needs. However, selecting materials with the maximum potential to reduce waste is crucial.

Creating durable and timeless spaces is also essential, as it promotes longevity and reduces the need for frequent design changes, aligning with social responsibility.

The embodied energy (energy needed to produce some material) is also important when choosing a sustainable material for a home or public space. Concrete, steel, and plastics are higher in embodied energy than some more natural elements like stone or timber.

Recycling potential is an important factor in the field of waste management. Moreover, the level of emission of toxic gases (in production and use) should be considered an important step to go for more traditional but highly sustainable techniques in construction

Decreasing the amount of global waste leads to the creation of new technology to generate electricity from the plantation

Interior environments are places where all human needs are exposed. They are the most intimate spaces where our physical and physical health is affected by many bad factors we have inflicted upon ourselves.

Environmental Sustainability in Business

Taking the initiative to create a more environmentally conscious company culture through eco-friendly policies is a bold move, even if it starts with eliminating plastic straws and paper to reduce plastic waste.

Developing a corporate environmental responsibility begins on the level of your workforce. It is crucial (especially for young) people to believe in the vision and practice of environmental sustainability, changing their habits in the office, for the mission of sustainability to be carried out accordingly.

Environmental Sustainability and Interior Design Elements

Interior design is a profession that is subject to the context of human needs and the many different levels of satisfaction. The interior space is made to satisfy the needs of security, survival, and achieving higher self-esteem

Recent studies have shown the need for environmental health and sustainability within our living spaces and the obligation for the niche to be included and survive. This is why the practice of interior design elements is considered a context of sustainability. Using natural light in interior design is crucial for improving energy efficiency and reducing dependence on artificial lighting. Larger windows, skylights, and light color schemes can help maximize natural light in design projects.

The environmental development and sustainability principles recognized the links between inequality, poverty, and environmental degradation. Thus, the elements of their improvement were needed to support communities and find a way forward for a fairer world with less environmental damage.

So, the environmental development and sustainability concept met the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to live in a better world.

Environmental sustainability in interior design refers to all the systems and materials integrated into one whole purpose (for example, into healthy building spaces for inhabitation), minimizing negative impacts on the environment and occupants while maximizing the positive health, economic, and social life cycle.

Environmental Sustainability in Interior Design and the Planet

Environmental development and sustainability issues include concerns about whether environmental resources will be protected and maintained for future generations. Limiting consumption of nonrenewable resources, naturally shifting to renewable resources, and avoiding excess pollution damage our health and the earth’s atmosphere.

Sustainable interior design plays a crucial role by creating eco-friendly and environmentally conscious spaces, using low-impact materials, reducing waste, and considering long-term environmental and economic impacts.

The biggest problem now is making an economic decision based on the insight of the long-term consequences and making integrational decisions to target economic and social welfare.

Long-term Health of Ecosystems

Principles of sustainable development protect the long-term productivity and health of the resources that will be used in the future, meeting the economic and social needs. 

Making decisions to protect food supplies, farmlands and fishing stocks, species diversity, and ecological structure, we ensure the health of our future generations and the loam of our lands.

Prevention of man-made global warming

Water shortages, extreme weather events, excess temperature, and all the other problems have been predicted for future generations to face because of the deterioration and usage of harmful materials and substances - factors that could make a living in some parts of the world very difficult, if not impossible.

Intergenerational decision making

When making large economic decisions, we should focus on the implications for the future, not just for the present moment. For example, using coal as energy gives a short-term benefit of cheapness, but the pollution weight is immense for future generations.

Renewable resources

Diversifying energy sources from nonrenewable into renewable and sustainable ones that, again, do not rely on non-renewable resources is one of the main concerns that should be met in the future. For example, the most popular solutions are solar and wind power-generating windmills, panels, and skylights.

The willingness to create sustainable environments should be primarily met and fulfilled within workplaces and private home interiors. Improving energy efficiency in interior design is crucial, as it reduces energy consumption related to heating, lighting, and appliances. Interior designers have an essential tool to lead sustainable environments and create a sustainability consciousness.

Interior design elements are major tools in creating long-term environmental sustainability, with elements of natural resources, sustainable fabrication, manufacturing, and installation, all the way up to sustainable use, reuse, recycling, and final disposal

Well Consultant: WELL Building Standards and All You Need to Know — Biofilico Wellness Interiors

The WELL standard in the building industry has completely changed the rulebook of human-centric building certification, going further than both LEED and sustainability quests to promote healthy buildings and architecture. As a result, WELL standard paired with these contemporary assessments, dig deep into human health aspects and their wellbeing as tenants in a building.

The International WELL Building Institute (IWBI) plays a crucial role in approving organizations for WELL Performance Testing, ensuring that the verification process is thorough and reliable.

A lot of factors can largely affect human health, happiness and productivity within the building walls, especially since multiple pieces of research have shown an increased amount of time spent indoors, especially in urban areas.

Staying semi-immobile for eight hours or more, inhaling poor quality air, stressing over work, combined with improper food choices and bad posture etc. make a built environment that shapes and influences our lives in the long run.

The WELL building standard is a useful tool for making and improving the health and wellbeing of the tenants inside the buildings. And how does it work?

What is a WELL building standard by the International WELL Building Institute

For those willing to get started with the WELL concept, the first thing to know is that you need to focus on things that directly and indirectly affect human behaviour and health. We can say that the WELL building certification concept is a holistic approach to health in the built environment, acting through architecture, design and later - maintenance of the building.

The WELL Building Standard is a system based on measurements and monitorings of air, water, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort and mind performances in a built-in environment. The certification process is crucial in achieving WELL certification, involving key stakeholders, evaluation of design documentation, and the role of WELL Consultants in aiding clients through the entire process.

WELL Building Standard enables teams to classify intentions and benefits of each WELL standard feature and develop comprehensive strategies to improve and protect different sets of body systems, such as cardiovascular, immune, digestive, endocrine, respiratory, muscular and all the others. Performance verification is necessary to ensure that buildings meet the standards set by the WELL certification, involving rigorous testing of parameters like acoustic performance, water, and air quality.

Clean water supplies for every tenant

The WELL building standard promotes clean and safe water consumption, through the implementation of filtration techniques and testings. In his way, our building occupants and employees are protected from accidentally drinking dangerous materials non-visible to the eye.

Proper nourishment to concur diseases 

Wrong eating habits combined with stress are resulting in a great percentage of overweight or obese people, especially within the younger population. Poor nutrition is also one of the primary contributors to all of the chronic diseases. The WELL building standard prescribes fresh and wholesome food, limiting the highly-processed ingredients.

Lighting as a way to connect with nature

Accessibility of natural light can add to better productivity, and it has been proven in multiple pieces of research. Bad and misconducted ventilation and lighting makes a big impact on the body's circadian rhythm, leading to, once mentioned chronicle diseases.

Air purifiers and filtration

A great percentage of premature deaths all around the world are caused by air pollution! The confrontation of pollutants can be two or even five times bigger on the inside than on the outside, which makes WELL certified projects more than ever needed to establish building requirements and filtration systems that minimize sources of indoor pollution

A WELL building standard provides illumination guidelines to minimize the disruption of the body's circadian systemenhancing productivity and supporting good sleeping quality.

Fitness options in an everyday life

Individuals who are insufficiently active have a higher risk of mortality compared to those who meet the health care organisation advises. A WELL standard promotes the integration of physical activity in everyday life by supporting the building and office owners to incorporate gyms - for an active lifestyle of their employees and tenants.

Factors that are of great comfort to people 

Designing ergonomically safe and comforting surroundings can be of great help in the prevention of many physical stresses and disorders. A WELL consultant considers thermal, ergonomic, acoustic and olfactory options to comfort and optimize indoor working and living quality.

A mind that sees a better tomorrow

Environmental characteristics have direct impacts on mental health and well-being. Crowd, noise, poor lighting or humid and starchy odours can be the cause of febrile mental, neurological disorders leading to depression and different disabilities worldwide. 

By implementing the WELL standard in building, you can optimize cognitive and emotional health through design layout, technology picking and healing, treatment strategies.

WELL certificate and WELL accredited professionals

A WELL consultant is a professional of significant knowledge in human health and wellness environment, with multiple participates in the WELL building. A WELL consultant can certify building with a WELL certificate. The WELL exam assesses abilities at three cognitive levels: Recall, Application and Analysis. Consulting services related to the International WELL Building Standard include advising, integrating design strategies, and organizing the preparation and submittal of documentation for certification.

A WELL certificate proves that your wellbeing consultant has abilities to recall factual information, identify a solution for a given problem or a scenario and analyze the relationship or interaction between multiple elements of the rating system. Consultants will advise and work with the building owner and design team from inception through construction and occupancy to obtain WELL Certification.

Any type of facility except single-family homes can pursue the WELL certification for health safety, including offices, hotels, grocery stores, warehouses, theatres, gyms, restaurants and schools, among others.

Be part of the WELL community with Biofilico

A WELL certificate is a credential that demonstrates professional mastery of the human and architectural health approach and ability to utilize materials and contribute to a better understanding of the WELL system strategies. Measuring, certifying, and monitoring features of the built environment to improve human health and wellness is crucial.

Biofilico provides a WELL consultant with thorough knowledge and rich experience in WELL certified projects and well building. Do you consider yourself a leader in your industry? Then it’s time to take another step forward. Medical research is essential in understanding the interactions between humans and the built environment, particularly in the context of the WELL Building Standard.

By contracting Biofilico as a WELL consultant or becoming one yourself, you are aiming for the long term health of your building and your employees, ensuring maximum performance and high-quality human experience in every niche.

Contact us to discuss WELL certification for your green building, office or gym. Biofilico combines several building certifications, creating new-age real estate developments and interior design that suits your tenants equally as it suits the natural environment.

Healthy gyms and their importance in the post-COVID 19 world

The ultimate goal of gyms is to build a healthier nation, with better habits. But, what happens when the place where we go seeking physical and mental improvement becomes a place that can make us sick? 

Athletic training rooms have a high prevalence of bacteria and drug-resistant organisms, increasing in that way the risk of both local and systemic infections. Bearing that in mind, the adaptation of hygiene protocols, reorganisation and replacement of standard gym equipment would lead to a reduction in the bacterial and viral pathogen.

Why viruses spread so easily in gyms?

Gyms offer a wide range of wellbeing services so you get the most out of being a member, but gyms are tricky because it’s typically hard to maintain social distance in a relatively confined space. Although there is a lack of research that says COVID-19 is indeed spread through sweat, respiratory particles can often get mixed in with sweat.

When you have a relatively high density of people exercising and sweating in a contained space, you have conditions where communicable diseases can spread easily. Gym equipment also can be devilishly difficult to sanitize. Dumbbells and kettlebells, for instance, are made of metal and strangely shaped in many different places people can grasp.

Ultimately, in reopening fitness centres after COVID 19 people are going to have to understand and accept that there will be some risks, but there are many steps people can take to mitigate them - Wash. Spray. Wait. Wipe. Repeat.

How can we add to more clean and healthy gyms?

Whether you’re comfortable with resuming your fitness classes again or still have some inconvenience deciding it - there are a few things everyone should keep in mind when it comes to preserving health, not only after the COVID pandemic but for all the future flue seasons, viruses etc.

The most important thing when reopening fitness centres after COVID 19 is to know your gym’s rules and safety protocols before you set off to a new fitness adventure. It is most likely that the areas will be marked to ensure people keep their distance. All the equipment can be separated too, or even put out of use, ensuring fewer people attend one class or occupy one small room at the same time.

Bring water with you and make sure it’s enough to last for your entire workout. You should also bring a clean pair of sneakers and your own towel, but be mindful about where you put it, especially if you’re wiping your face with it. Also, try to minimize the time spent within the gym walls. This does not mean you have to skip classes but go in with a plan for a workout.

What is to be expected in gyms after COVID-19?

Once gyms are finally reopened, in compliance with health we can expect many changes concerning people visiting the gym and the ones in charge of carrying out the gym business after COVID. It seems like cardio, group training and conventional strength and deadlifting programs will be conducted more strictly and that greater precaution measures will be taken. 

While maintaining physical distance, hygiene and tracing any form of illness between employees, fitness club owners will be “forced” to introduce other major changes to resume their business and make it more secure and sustainable than ever. Here’s a glimpse of some changes gyms are most likely to experience in the post-COVID 19 era.

1. Greater safety protocols to ensure everyone’s health

While keeping a distance is one of the major things people will get used to doing, some fitness facilities could incorporate symptoms monitoring like high temperature, distinctive coughing or sick looks all around. Soap and hand-sanitizers will be more available for visitors to wash and clean their hands at the entrance, as they walk in.

These unique health checks can allow your trainer to get to know you better, and create an individual fitness and wellbeing plan more suited to your condition.

2. Improved air quality in healthy gyms

Sometimes social distancing at the gym can be complicated by aerobic exercise. Exercisers breathe heavily and their droplets can linger in the air. The answer to this is a ventilation system that refreshes the air inside and proper gym air filtration from the outside.

Indoor gyms show high levels of airborne dust, formaldehyde and carbon dioxide delivered from different materials and equipment. In sufficient concentrations, meaning, when we are exposed to them long term, these substances can contribute to asthma and other respiratory problems.

3. Nature-friendly equipment is easier to sustain

It is very likely that the current situation concerning the coronavirus will shape the business long term, meaning that many fitness studios have already been assigned to comply with high standards of health, safety and cleanliness. For this to happen, and for ordinary gyms to become healthy gyms, it’s important to, firstly alternate, and then completely replace artificial materials prone to virus clinginess with nature-derived one, non-toxic for people and the environment.

Natural workout equipment is made from hemp, wood, ash and marble etc. The minimalist workout equipment encourages a healthy gyms lifestyle while highlighting the beauty of the natural world. The collection usually consists of a jump rope, push up barrels, dumbbells, an ab wheel and so on.

4. Futuristic healthy gyms - an open space experience

The long term impact that COVID-19 will definitely leave on many gym experiences is that the future is starting to turn more towards open space gyms and more wellness-focused spaces. Regular physical activity can improve your muscle strength and boost your endurance, while fresh air delivers oxygen and nutrients to your tissues and helps your cardiovascular system work more efficiently during the session, maximizing the results.

Final thoughts on post-COVID healthy gyms

The ability to adapt to change renders humans as survivors. This can be also applied in business, in the fitness industry. Gyms who organise around the new realities - smaller market, more hygiene concerns, less disposable income, pervasive laziness, the resilience of specialist offerings - will be more likely to succeed.

Ultimately, a great deal of post-coronavirus activity in the gym will come down to trust - trust in the institution offering exercise services and equipment to properly maintain a sterile environment, and in your fellow gym-goers to clean up after they use that equipment and observe the guidelines of hygiene and distance that have thus far contributed to flattening the curve.

Remember, movement of any kind is good for our physical and mental health! The gym is one of the unique places to collect all the benefits of a healthy and vivacious human being. 

You can be sure that gyms after COVID-19 are looking forward to welcoming you back, and that they will continue to support your health and fitness journey through a safe environment. We all play a part in keeping healthy gyms, and you can expect to be asked to follow a few rules too.

luxury coworking interiors - porto montenegro

We were responsible for the coworking interior design of Ozana Business Club luxury coworking offices in Porto Montenegro, Tivat, Montenegro, managing all furniture and lighting selection & procurement.

Brands we collaborated with include Gandia Blasco, Rex Kralj, Mobles 114, Santa & Cole, Actiu and Nanimarquina.

Natural leather office chairs designed by Rex Kralj paired with a bright section of office carpet by Tarkett that adds vibrancy to the VIP meeting room. A 3metre conference table in black combined with a console on the back wall, and design classic table lamps by Miguel Mila.

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An elegant outdoor restoration space designed for socializing, informal meetings with a sea view, even a casual lunch at the 6-seater dining table. A superyacht marina view never does any harm we feel but for added privacy we worked with the in-house landscape team to provide shelter at both ends of the terrace, giving it more of an intimate feel suitable for VIP clients and events.

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Bright white walls align with the white leather lounge chairs with natural wood finishes, a marble coffee table, Mobles 114 shelving system, Santa & Cole lamps, a Muuto 2-seater sofa and Montenegrin artworks on the walls.

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All white bar stools and bar table by Rex Kralj feature white leather seat covers and create an airy, light feel to the lounge area that is again contrasted with the pop of grass green and nautical blue carpet tiles to bring the outside world in.

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The Gandia Blasco outdoor furniture set-up looking fine in the late afternoon sun. This outdoor space has been adopted by office tenants as their second home during the workday, in large part do to the serene views but we like to think the tasteful olive green furniture designed to play off the Mediterranean plants in terracotta pots play a part in that too.

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outdoor work area with bay views

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Fully furnished executive office

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Conference room in action

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Reception area

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Buildings and Wellbeing: Architecture for Health - Wellness Design Consultants

To be truly capable of enhancing human well-being, building design needs to change its approach towards optimising crucial parameters such as temperature and humidity, in a holistic way that supports human behaviour and health, both mental and physical. This includes adopting healthy building practices that improve indoor air quality and environmental design.

Based on the scientifically established facts, the purpose of this article is to outline the definition of health and wellness through healthy architecture, and to determine potential implications and opportunities for housing design, closely associated with, for example, poor indoor environment and air quality.

Health improving concept in architecture

The design and the making of our built environment and homes affect our health and well-being by making long-term implications on the quality of life.

Improving health, wealth and happiness is influential in revealing suitable behaviour - strongly influenced by the context of where we spend our time, sleep or grow and eat our food.

It has been pointed out that people can make better decisions automatically, non-coercively and more simply, through changing their choices in health and wellbeing architecture. The impact that architecture has on health is evident: it’s easier to make better decisions in a more healthy environment and constrain behaviours by making certain actions more difficult. This includes supporting the emotional wellbeing of occupants, which is crucial for overall mental health.

The importance of sustainability in architecture for indoor air quality and health

Sustainability integrates environmental concerns with creative ways to build interiors of materials non-harmful to the environment, promoting a sustainable built environment.

All the concerns based on energy efficiency, waste reduction, water supplies, the assessment of materials and recycling, the impact of transport on greenhouse gas emissions, green purchasing policies and more are dealt with in the basic sustainability questions, all which you can be provided with throw explanations from Biofilico.

We should treat all buildings as critical environments and Biofilico knows how to make possible their correcting. First of all, a holistic management solution is required to create healthy architecture and living environments for all tenants - with healthy air, water and materials.

Establishing controlled foundation for a comprehensive solution

Establishing an environment for health architecture with ventilation and controlled humidity within rooms is very important for indoor air quality and increasing amounts of particles of organic and non-organic compounds, humidity and CO2.

Comprehensive and healthy air solutions for filtration, UV technologies, cleaning protocols, humidity density and facility controlling strategies should work together for a more holistic approach and intelligent solutions. The main innovations concerning materials are greater use of wood, concrete and composites, that achieve a high level of thermal efficiency and solar energy glazing.

Architecture for health and wellness improvement

As we have pointed out, when it comes to wellness, establishing an environment for health architecture is a crucial factor and a bedrock for any further words about health. It’s easy to spot where the problem actually lies.

Did you ever feel dull or unusually tired after a meeting or simply after work? That’s because most offices and conference rooms do not provide enough fresh air, mostly because of the windows lacking. Prolonged exposure to such environments can cause tiredness, pain, and high blood pressure.

When that door opens, it literally feels like the wind breathes life back into the room. But, unexisting windows and wind flow actually has a much worse impact on our body than we can see or feel.

All the indoor spaces - where we work, teach and learn, play, eat, and even heal, have an outsized negative impact on our performance and well-being. Badly implemented architectural ideas affect our creativity, focus, and problem-solving ability, making us sick and putting in jeopardy our long-term future, dragging down profits in the process.

Long term benefits of healthy architecture

Biofilico’s goal is to improve the lives of all people, in all of the buildings of the future, everywhere and every day. By counselling and examining situations nowadays, we can discover how to optimize buildings for health using factors in the built environment that influence human health, wellbeing and productivity.

Poorly constructed buildings, bad waste materials, and unhealthy building materials lead to buildings affecting human health, from cognitive performance to the wide range of different diseases.

Whether people are healthy or not, is highly determined by the environment they live in. To a large extent, factors like where we live and the state of the environment, have considerable impacts on health - equally as genetics, income, education, our relationships with friends and family.

Cognitive benefits of wellbeing buildings

Adjusted ventilation rates, carbon dioxide levels, and the quantity of airborne VOCs (chemical compounds emitted by common objects such as desk chairs and whiteboards) have a huge impact on cognitive functioning and assessments like crisis response, decision making, and strategy.

Workers in green certified buildings, high-performing buildings show as much as 26 percent better cognitive functioning, have an increment in sleep and rest scores - all because of better lighting and optimal thermal conditions approved by LEED certification.

Architecture for physical and mental wellbeing - why design wellness oriented buildings

Buildings designed to make us happier and healthier can be costly. There is now a huge incentive for companies to invest in healthy architecture and wellness buildings, encouraging choice, movement and relaxation, controlling temperature, noise levels and air quality, adding breakout areas, ergonomic furniture and plants.

Open spaces within healthy architecture places encourage collaboration and increase understanding of the variety of employees’ personality types, such as introverts and extroverts. Housing is also another huge opportunity for wellbeing, mental wellbeing, and design.

The ascendance of architecture and health in the built environment

Architecture is an important contributor to mental and physical wellness in its own right. The relationship between architecture and health has historically received little attention, but recent work has changed this and established a more holistic awareness of the role of architecture in physical and mental health and physical and mental wellbeing.

Nature-based solutions are increasingly being integrated into architectural designs to harmonize the natural and built environments.

The science of wellness inside buildings is a relatively new area of inquiry, but architectural developments related to wellness provide a critical mass of evidence that led to the definition of key behaviours related to improved or decreased residence conditions. The most collected evidence supporting the assertion of behaviours resulted in an improvement in architecture and health are:

1. Connecting people - the quantity and quality of social connections and interactions with familiar people and strangers.

2. Keeping them active - demonstrates that physical activity reduces symptoms of mental and physical illnesses.

3. Being mindful - taking notice, paying attention and being aware of thoughts and feelings is a behaviour that reduces symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression.

The International Well Building Institute emphasizes the importance of creating healthy buildings that support the physical health and emotional wellbeing of their users.

Synthesizing scientific information, certification systems, new technologies, real estate trends and environmental changes into a cohesive strategy for your business, Biofilico creates unique places and interiors where people are most able to prosper and live long and happy lives.

How to know if your workplace fits the wellness office concept

Do you think you have made the perfect office space for your people to work and be productive in? Not every space can be designed to incorporate all the principles of biophilic design and the much-needed wellness office interior, contributing to the enhancement of wellbeing of those within it.

Observe the core wellness office principles and use an evidence-based strategy to create an effective office where you need to inspire and motivate employees over their own wellbeing and preferably increase long-term income at the same time.

The wellness office interior concept and wellbeing office design

Although the “wellness” world generally connotes saunas, spa treatments and relaxation - the term is used to describe so much more. Wellness is an active process of becoming more aware of natural living and making better choices for a more fulfilling life. 

Bearing that in our minds, wellness becomes involved in so many dimensions: from regular, daily exercises and fitness, to nutrition and living a balanced, relaxed, slow and socially healthy life.

The wellness design concept also means creating and living in spaces prone to nourishing our body and mind. This is where we at Biofilico get to say a few words. Wellness concept that’s focused on interior design involves more natural lighting, high efficiency and sustainable materials, air and sound quality, and neutral colour palettes. 

With Biophilic design, (connecting architecture and nature) we integrate the outside greenery and space into an https://biofilico.com/news/ergonomic-furniture-workplace-wellness-interior-designdeployed to help your clients and employees stay fit while they’re at work.

A carefully planned wellness office design provides motivation with an educational character since it promotes a healthier approach in office dwelling and spending eight-plus hours at one place.

1. Lightning ensures productivity and suppresses headaches

Lighting can play a crucial role when it comes to workplace and wellbeing office design. From a wellness concept point of view, utilising and incorporating as much natural light as possible is highly recommended, especially for areas designed for distinct types of work or activity. Light promotes alertness, enhances the experience and supports sleep for employees.

Using LED lighting to mimic suitable colours

Also, it has been pointed out by scientists that more than half of the employees lack natural light. Sometimes, future employees put their decision on whether or not their working space has enough natural isolation. 

Knowing that we often don’t have a way to bring natural light with big windows and glass walls, LED lighting is used to mimic natural light, with several ways of colour adaptation to suit different hours of the day.

2. What about indoor air quality? 

The impact of air quality on employee wellbeing is equally as important. Many employees are accustomed to the deep, starchy hum of a central air system, but as well as on lack of temperature control within the office. Energy-saving cooling systems provide a multitude of benefits, including better tenant comfort and higher temperature and humidity control.

3. The organisation of office space with appropriate colours in design

Many studies have supported the universal links between productivity and office design.

Similarly, elements representing the natural world, such as indoor plants and natural colours like green, blue and brown, also made the top five valuable factors when choosing to work somewhere or being productive at work.

Colours, much like lighting, can have a major impact on mood. Certain colours imparted everything from a sense of serenity to dynamics and creativity. Greens, blues and browns are often associated with being restful and productive, while vibrant tones like reds and yellows can inspire motivation.

Colour can be infused not only via paint but also through the selection of colourful furniture, graphics or even carpeting. Also, it is always a good idea to select a palette that works for your brand, and not to be afraid to go bolder, louder on tones and colours.

Office wellness tips - restoring the quality of working hours

Office wellness tips for interior design that inspires activity is a great way of introducing workplace wellbeing. 

Most of the time it’s hard to inspire your workers to take fitness classes, to be active, to cycle to work, skip the elevator and use the stairs, so - in addition to that, incorporating fitness and office health and wellness corners, is considered effective workplace wellness strategy.

Wellness room at work - for employees to rest and regenerate

Provide your employees with wellness rooms in the workplace that they can use when in need to relax both their bodies and minds during the day. 

The workout they get from a brief yoga session, ping pong or a workout in an on-site gym can provide quick stress relief. This fitness-based office wellness tips for the interior concept serves as a communal space integrating a multipurpose wellness room at work, for a few minutes of repose.

Comfort is key - advantages of the outdoors and ergonomic furniture

And last but definitely not least important thing on our journey to make our office’s wellness acceptable is creating an outdoor - like space such as gardens, tracks or trails that will inspire your employees to take their meetings outdoors when the weather is nice.

Wellness friendly offices do an excellent job providing additional options for employees willing to get away from their desks and enjoy some fresh air. These small adjustments bring up to employees gaining more energy, and the increase of physical activity reduces healthcare costs and the number of sick days.

The desk is dead, long live the ergonomy

As we spend most of our working hours sitting, long periods glued to the chair combined with poor posture leads to back pain, and several other muscle and bone illnesses. By offering your staff wellness tips for office workers you can improve their posture and long term health at work:

• sit-to-stand desks

• foam mats 

• configurable tables with casters

• yoga balls

Standing while working for not more than 30 minutes a day has a remarkable impact in decreasing blood pressure, cholesterol and stress levels. It is also considered to be a more efficient form of going through appointments.

Biophilic impact on wellness office design

The best-kept secret of a great and enjoyable workplace are all the factors that implicate how your employees feel when at work, how they perform and the way they interact with each other. It is known that people seek connection with nature and that they are best motivated to work in natural surroundings.

The innate relationship between humans and nature has been heavily studied for over three decades now, only to be environmentally implemented by our biophilic concept that allows and supports adaptive human functions and psychological restoration.

We bring nature within your office walls! Elements that allow connection to nature via interior design using natural elements, nature-resembling colours and patterns, indoor plants and views of greenery can help us mentally recover and provide respite from our day-to-day activities, to maintain a positive state of mind.

These were a few of the many ways you can use wellness concept and design to help your employees feel better during their time at work. 

If you are still having doubts about how your office space contributes to employee health, Biofilico is here to provide the optimal consultancy and design adjustments for functional office spaces that fit the wellness interior concept, have great natural aesthetics and are cost-effective.

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.