Boost creativity and concentration with nature
Would you like to increase productivity, concentration, and creativity? Or perhaps reduce employee turnover, absenteeism, and stress? Bring nature into the office and promote well-being.
Most people have a place they return to in their minds when they want to think about a pleasant moment. For almost everyone, that place is related in some way to nature, perhaps a forest or by the water. This is no coincidence, as studies show that nature calms and relaxes, which is why its importance to human well-being in indoor building spaces is being increasingly studied and utilized.
Bringing nature into interior design is called biophilic design. Biophilia means a love of nature and living things, and in biophilic design, nature is brought indoors through light and various natural materials such as wood or stone and, of course, plants.
Natural light
Biophilic design utilizes as much natural light as possible, as it has been shown to reduce fatigue, improve mood, and support circadian rhythms. In the biophilic design of offices, natural light is considered in aspects such as the placement of workstations, aiming to ensure as many people as possible see natural light during the workday.
Dynamic lighting solutions complement natural light, especially during dark seasons and in spaces where window light is limited. Adjustable color temperature and light intensity can adapt to the time of day, promoting alertness and well-being. The combination of natural light and smart lighting helps create spaces that reduce eye strain, increase concentration, and promote overall well-being.
Materials and tones
The use of natural materials and tones is an essential part of biophilic space planning. They echo nature's tones, calm the mind, and bring a sense of authenticity to the space. Wood, stone, wool, and clay feel pleasant to touch, and their surface forms – such as wood grain patterns and stone irregularities – strengthen the connection to nature.
Over time, materials patinate and wear beautifully, adding layers and a sense of natural rhythm to the space. This organic change makes the environment more vibrant and human, which can increase comfort and reduce stress.
The use of natural materials is experienced differently across cultures, as their symbolic and practical meanings vary by region. For example, in Northern Europe and Japan, wood and stone are strongly associated with traditional building methods, creating a sense of familiarity and dignity in spaces.
Plants
The effects of plants on human well-being have been extensively studied, and the results are impressive: indoor greenery has been found to reduce stress, improve concentration, and even boost morale. In work environments, plants act not only as elements that increase comfort but also as factors that improve air quality, as they bind impurities and increase air humidity, which could reduce issues like respiratory problems and headaches.
Invest in design
Biophilic design is not just visually pleasing; it also has concrete benefits for both employees and employers. Numerous studies have shown that adding natural elements to office premises can increase productivity by up to 15 percent. Additionally, employees who work in a nature-oriented environment report being more satisfied with their work and experiencing less stress.
How can you implement biophilic spaces?
Utilize natural light
✓ Position workstation areas near window walls for natural views and light
✓ Plan meeting rooms in the inner parts of the building, so natural light can be prioritized for work areas
✓ Complement lighting with smart and adjustable solutions that adapt to the time of day and support alertness
Introduce natural materials to the space
✓ Utilize wood, stone, wool, and other natural materials in furniture, surfaces, and textiles. Remember nature-inspired design language – organic shapes and irregular surfaces bring naturalness and harmony to the space
✓ Choose muted, nature-inspired tones for wall, floor, and ceiling surfaces, furniture, and textiles
Add plants and green interiors
✓ Choose maintenance-free or easy-care green
elements that bring nature into the space without
the need for major maintenance. For example, lichen and moss walls do not
require any watering at all.
✓ Use green walls and plant groupings as room dividers. You can
create a lush green path between workstations and corridors,
which divides the space naturally and enhances comfort.
✓ Add natural elements also through prints and acoustic
solutions.
✓ Utilize plant rental services if you want an easy
green interior solution.
Utilize diversity
✓ Use a variety of materials. Wood surfaces, stone countertops, and wooden
or felt wall panels bring depth and invite
touch. Rough clay surfaces and matte
paints create contrast and increase the natural feel of the space.
✓ Soften the space with textiles. Carpets feel pleasant
underfoot, textile curtains calm the room's acoustics,
and upholstered seats provide seating comfort.
✓ Avoid strong scents. Instead, natural
scents, such as a small, mildly fragrant herb garden
producing a harvest under a light lamp in the work cafe,
can increase a calming atmosphere and make the space
more experiential.
✓ Water features, such as small indoor water elements or
a background soundscape of nature, can reduce
stress and support concentration.
Connect the work environment with outdoor spaces
✓ Organize break and workspace areas outdoors or in courtyards,
where employees can spend time in the middle of nature.
✓ Hold walking meetings in Kupittaanpuisto park.
✓ Create spaces with the opportunity to see nature or its
elements such as trees, water or green areas.