What is the meaning of biophilia?

The definition of biophilia is the ‘love of living things and nature, which some people believe humans are born with’. It’s the belief that humans are born with an affinity for other life forms. As humans, we seek connection with living things, whether that be our loved ones, our pets, or nature. Biophilic design is based on biophilia and the inherent desire to be surrounded by natural elements, which can improve mental and physical health.

When did biophilic design start?

E.O. Wilson coined the concept of biophilic design in 1984. Wilson, a biologist and professor, explored the connection between human beings and nature through his book Biophilia. Biophilic design principles within architecture began application in the late 20th century when designers began using natural elements. Biophilic design has evolved over the past few decades and is broadly recognised as beneficial to human health.

Why is biophilic design important?

Most of us exist in a synthetic world: we live in constructed homes, we go to manufactured buildings for work, and we use artificial technology daily. Biophilic design is important because it reconnects us with nature via beautiful water features, nature sounds, living walls, greenery, and much more. Biophilic design has been proven to positively impact the nervous system, attention span, cognitive function, and overall well-being. It may even improve self-esteem and higher resiliency.

Could biophilic design improve well-being?

Biophilic design can improve well-being. A study found that spending at least 120 minutes per week in urban green spaces can improve people’s well-being. This is most effective around large clusters of greenery rather than isolated plants. But the key takeaway is that if your employees spend 40 hours a week in the office, designing the place with biophilic elements could significantly impact their well-being.

What are the three pillars of biophilic design?

The three key pillars of biophilic design are: Nature in the space: This includes adding nature to the built environment, including potted plants and fish tanks. Nature of the space: This includes what the space psychologically feels like, and it includes open floor plans, views of nature, transparent materials, and balconies. Natural analogues: This includes synthetic elements that mimic nature, such as artificial plants, artwork, and nature-inspired patterns.

The power of biophilic office design

November 20, 2023

Around 85% of employees express dissatisfaction with the design of their workplace. A well-designed workplace can increase employee satisfaction by 33%, leading to more productivity and better health.

One of the most pivotal ways to enhance workspace aesthetics is through the concept of biophilic office design. Biophilic nature design — seamlessly integrating natural elements into the interior workspace — can mitigate stress levels and boost employee creativity.

four beige chairs on wheels at desks covered in grenery, like catcus and ivy. on the tables are laptops, notebooks, mugs and lights.

What is biophilic design?

Biophilic design is an innovative concept that brings natural elements indoors, including into the corporate environment. The harmonious synergy between nature and architecture allows individuals to reconnect with the patterns of the natural world.

The design concept incorporates organic materials, natural light, vegetation, and beautiful natural elements. Introducing biophilic design in corporate settings can reduce stress, improve creativity, and enhance cognitive function because of the refreshing atmosphere.

So, biophilic design isn’t purely an aesthetic approach. It’s a strategic solution for health, happiness, and productivity through a calming and invigorating environment. Since most of us now spend our time in constructed environments, we have lost touch with nature. Biophilic design is there to reconnect us.

Biophilic office design examples

Biophilic office design aims to reconnect and re-energise employees, ultimately creating a healthier, happier, and more productive working environment. Below are 12 examples of how businesses can integrate biophilic interior design into the modern office interior.

Through these ingenious designs, you’ll notice how the natural elements transform a workspace, creating a beautiful harmony between the living world and the corporate one.

Locker wall unit in wood with 20 wooden locks & four gray lockers. On top of the unit is thriving greenery. The unit is in a tidy office.

1. Indoor Plants

Indoor plants and greenery throughout the workspace are part of biophilic design. Potted plants and clusters of greenery can improve air quality and bring nature indoors. Some powerful indoor plants include spider plants, succulents, pothos vines, and snake plants.

However, it’s crucial that the plants don’t create a disconnection. A single plant or an isolated bit of greenery isn’t effective biophilic office design. Clusters and groups of greenery are much more effective for creating a sense of nature, air purification, and temperature control.

there are two desks in the middle of a large, naturally lit room. at ecah table are mushroom shaped stools. on thetables are a laptop and stationary on the back walls are wooden panels and thriving greenery, shelves with storage and books.

2. Natural light

Maximising access to natural light is a key part of biophilic office design. Large windows, skylights, and glass partitions allow natural light in, which can improve circadian rhythm, energy, and alertness.

Mirrors can also be strategically placed to bounce light throughout a room. If you are embracing the use of plants, natural light is also necessary for their health.

there is a wooden table in the middle of a green and brown office. the table has greenery growing over the lights to create a lush atmosphere. the wall behind the table is covered in thriving greenery. there is a person working at a laptop at the desk. in the background, another person is sitting comfortably on a sofa looking at his phone.

3. Biophilic colour schemes

Using nature-inspired or earthy colour palettes can create a grounding atmosphere. Calming hues inspired by landscapes or organic materials bring elements of the natural world in sight. These tones can reduce stress, improve employee well-being, and even enhance clarity. To incorporate this into the workspace, play around with wall colours, upholstery, accessories, room accents, and of course, plants.

the photo features a window wall in an office. there are individual seating along the windows, each with a personal desk. on the front desk is a laptop. behind the desks are thriving greenery going up the walls and a few plants.

4. Living walls

Vertical gardens and green walls with thriving life are both refreshing to look at, and they improve air quality. The Centre of Health Design found that patients with a view of trees recovered quicker than those with a view of a brick wall [1]. The patients were also happier and required fewer painkillers when looking at a tree view.

A living wall is a perfect solution for urban offices, as they provide a view of nature, resulting in happier, healthier, and calmer employees.

wood picnic table with black legs is at the centre of the photo. the table is indoors in a naturally lit office with brick walls, herringbone flooring, and living dividers. on top of the table is an old book, laptop and mug.

5. Biophilic furniture

Furniture made from natural materials or inspired by nature’s form is integral to biophilic design. Biophilic furniture is still a relatively new idea, but it’s becoming more popular in corporate spaces. It includes furniture that features natural materials, organic hues, and sculpted shaping inspired by nature.

At Saxen, we offer biophilic furniture options, including planter boxes for storage cabinets and tall planters for dividing spaces. To learn more about introducing biophilics into your business, get in touch.

a white table sits outside on top of healthy green grass. there are four white chairs at the table. in the background, there are healthy bushes and trees.

6. Outdoor spaces

When you can’t bring nature indoors, take your employees outdoors. We wish all our meetings could be at the beach. But balconies, courtyards, and terraces are a scenic second choice.

Since nature is pivotal in people’s well-being and healing, it has become integral to biophilic office design.

there is a modern table in a concrete office with natural light coming in from the large windows. at the table are seven black desk chairs. on the wall, there is a large leaf-like scultpure; it is green and large.

7. Biophilic artwork

Displaying artwork that features natural elements like landscapes and animals is an easy way to incorporate biophilic design. This can be anything from small sculptures to large-scale murals or installations. Biophilic art in synthetic spaces prompts sensory pause in fast-paced environments.

a close up shot of a water feature in an office. it resembles a river with water flowing down two separate layers. on the side of the river are plants and flowers. in the background, there is a sofa.

8. Water features

Water features — such as fountains, fish tanks, and streams — are an aesthetic part of biophilic design. Water has calming and relaxing benefits and can reduce stress while acting as a sound absorber in noisy environments.

Designers must place the water feature in a common place, such as an entrance or lobby. If people can hear water but can’t find it, the body subconsciously goes on high alert in an attempt to find the source. Water features also create a slipping hazard, and they can increase humidity, so the environment must be correctly maintained.

9. Scenic views

Creating a scenic view is out of an architect’s control. However, if an office space overlooks a park or forest, open the windows and let the biophilic benefits into the workspace. Scenic views can create an inspiring and soothing environment for employees and visitors.

close up shot of the ceiling of an office. the ceiling has biophilic energy with flowing greenery coming down between the circular lights.

10. Biophilic ceilings

Ceilings with greenery, natural patterns, or those that mimic a natural sky have a calming effect on the work environment. Warm wood with hanging plants is also a solution for creating a biophilic ceiling. Biophilic ceilings offer a natural space-saving solution for smaller offices since they don't consume floor space.

there is a brown sofa and a green armchair facing two coffee tables. the vibes of the office are organic and warm. behind the sofa is a divider with lush greenery.

11. Living dividers

As well as living walls, living dividers are a great way to separate workstations or create designated collaborative areas. You can also find movable dividers, allowing you to customise the biophilic elements depending on the situation. They also give privacy while maintaining an open and natural atmosphere.

12. Nature sounds

Integrating soundscapes of natural environments, including flooring water, birdsongs, or a gentle breeze, can create a serene auditory experience for workers. Studies have found that people who listen to nature sounds, like ocean waves, have lower muscle tension, stress, and heart rates.

Nature sounds can be played over speakers in the workspace, though some might not prefer this. Instead, employees may be able to use personal headphones and listen to nature sounds online via sites like A Soft Murmur.

a Black girl with curly hair is worknig at a laptop in an office thriving with natural greenery.

Benefits of biophilic design.

Biophilic office design is a trend, yes, but it’s a trend for a reason. In the business sector, biophilic design is recognised as significantly beneficial for employee well-being. By embracing nature-inspired design, businesses have found a profound enhancement in their staff's overall health and satisfaction.

Here are three noteworthy benefits of utilising nature design in the workspace:

Mental health and stress reduction

Nature can soothe. Biophilic design reduces employee stress by incorporating greenery, natural light, water, and natural sounds. It also helps employees relax in their workspace and feel more refreshed.

Boosting productivity and creativity

Nature in the workspace directly links to improved productivity and creativity. Employees in biophilic settings experienced better focus, enhanced creativity, and more innovative thinking.

Health benefits and morale

Bringing nature indoors is gorgeous, but it also improves air quality and reduces indoor toxins. This leads to better overall health of employees, impacting the morale and fostering a sense of contentment at work.

there is a black and white table with stools in the centre of the image. on the table is a water bottle, and two laptops in the background there is a free-standing bookcase full of black, blue and white books. the wall behind the scene is covered in thick and lush greenery.

How does biophilic design help the environment?

As well as impacting employee well-being, biophilic design also contributes to environmental preservation and sustainability.

Biophilic design reduces the use of synthetic and non-renewable sources. Instead, architecture uses natural elements like wood, greenery, and stone.

Biophilic design can also create a more energy-efficient workplace. Natural lighting reduces the need for artificial lighting, and greenery (like living walls) can cool indoor spaces organically.

Living walls and outdoor spaces can also absorb carbon in the atmosphere, lowering a company’s carbon footprint. The more trees in an outdoor working space, the more it can reduce the carbon in the atmosphere.

Lastly, when a company prioritises green practices and biophilic design, the employees learn more about sustainability and environmental conservation. This could also inspire them to practice green practices like walking to work or shopping locally.

the photo highglghts three room dividers made of gray and beige materials. there is a stenciled cut out of leaves on the dividers to bring in biophilic design.

How to incorporate biophilic design.

Including natural design in the workplace has many benefits. It helps employees reconnect with nature, improves air quality, and positively impacts their well-being.

The easiest way to incorporate biophilic design in your workspace is to add clusters of greenery, such as plants. They don’t even have to be live — fake plants can benefit employee well-being, too.

Also, consider letting in natural light and opening windows for ventilation, adding scenic artwork, or allowing employees to listen to nature sounds.

To incorporate biophilic design into your workspace on a more significant scale, contact Saxen for a consultation. We are passionate about biophilics in the workspace, and we can provide you with resources, tips, and products to transform your business.

Frequently asked questions

What is the meaning of biophilia?

The definition of biophilia is the ‘love of living things and nature, which some people believe humans are born with’. It’s the belief that humans are born with an affinity for other life forms. As humans, we seek connection with living things, whether that be our loved ones, our pets, or nature.

Biophilic design is based on biophilia and the inherent desire to be surrounded by natural elements, which can improve mental and physical health.
When did biophilic design start?

E.O. Wilson coined the concept of biophilic design in 1984. Wilson, a biologist and professor, explored the connection between human beings and nature through his book Biophilia.

Biophilic design principles within architecture began application in the late 20th century when designers began using natural elements. Biophilic design has evolved over the past few decades and is broadly recognised as beneficial to human health.
Why is biophilic design important?

Most of us exist in a synthetic world: we live in constructed homes, we go to manufactured buildings for work, and we use artificial technology daily. Biophilic design is important because it reconnects us with nature via beautiful water features, nature sounds, living walls, greenery, and much more.

Biophilic design has been proven to positively impact the nervous system, attention span, cognitive function, and overall well-being. It may even improve self-esteem and higher resiliency.
Could biophilic design improve well-being?

Biophilic design can improve well-being. A study found that spending at least 120 minutes per week in urban green spaces can improve people’s well-being. This is most effective around large clusters of greenery rather than isolated plants. But the key takeaway is that if your employees spend 40 hours a week in the office, designing the place with biophilic elements could significantly impact their well-being.
What are the three pillars of biophilic design?

The three key pillars of biophilic design are:

Nature in the space:
This includes adding nature to the built environment, including potted plants and fish tanks.

Nature of the space:
This includes what the space psychologically feels like, and it includes open floor plans, views of nature, transparent materials, and balconies.

Natural analogues:
This includes synthetic elements that mimic nature, such as artificial plants, artwork, and nature-inspired patterns.