Biophilic Design: How to Quickly Improve Your Work Environment

Want a better workspace? Try adding plants.

Have you ever heard of biophilic design? First introduced in 1973, the term biophilia refers to the focus on and love of natural, living things. Biophilia can be understood as the call to nature—to visit parks, to hike in the mountains, to take a walk through the trees. Biophilic design takes that innate love of natural things and purposefully integrates it into the built environment, with examples like the Amazon Spheres in Seattle, the 1 Hotels in New York and Miami, and Bosco Verticale in Italy.

These incredible buildings integrate trees, plants, ponds, waterfalls, and other natural features into their architecture, creating spaces of nature even in the middle of large cities.

The benefits of biophilic design are wide-ranging, and include:

• decreased stress

• increased productivity

• better focus

• improved mood

Although working in an office or room with large windows overlooking gorgeous scenery would be ideal, you can still incorporate biophilic design even if you work in a small, windowless corner. Just add plants! Many plants can thrive without natural sunlight; just position them near a small grow light. Or take them (and yourself) out frequently for walks in the sunlight. The fresh air will be good for both of you!