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New trend: How biophilic office design creates a better work environment

Greenery in the office is not just a style feature; it can improve both the work environment and employee performance. The concept of biophilic design is on the rise and more companies are now investing in green solutions to create healthier, more productive workspaces.

What is biophilia?

Biophilic office design is rooted in the biophilia hypothesis, a term popularised by biologist Edward O. Wilson. It describes humans’ innate connection with nature and the living world. Offices that embrace biophilia aim to reduce stress, boost creativity, and enhance wellbeing through the integration of natural elements.
 
Biophilic design is not just an interior design trend but part of modern ergonomics, where the mental environment also plays a major role in how we feel and perform at work. It helps create workplaces that feel more alive, human and harmonious. A report from the World Green Building Council (2014) shows, for example, that sick leave can be reduced by up to 10% in workplaces that invest in green and nature-inspired environments.
Person standing close to a cabinet in an office environment.

Bringing nature into the office makes us healthier and more focused

Enhancing the work environment by icorporating nature into offices has become increasingly popular. Plants, natural light, earthy colours and natural materials create workspaces that are not just nice to work in but actually boost both employee wellbeing and performance.

In its simplest form, introducing biophilic design into the office could mean placing a few potted plants around the workspace. But it can also include more advanced elements, like green walls, natural materials, and nature-inspired art or colours.

Bar stools arranged around a dining table with people sitting indoors in a dining room.
Live plant acoustic wall panel RUDY

Decorate with natural and artificial plants

Introducing greenery into the workspace has a remarkable impact on both atmosphere and wellbeing. Plants improve air quality, soften hard surfaces, dampen noise and naturally reduce stress, making the office feel more inviting.
Acoustic panels made from natural materials, such as reindeer moss, also contribute to a calmer and more harmonious working environment. They combine function and design in a way that both dampens sound and adds a soft, green feel to the room.
 
But biophilia is not just about living plants. Artificial plants have become increasingly realistic and offer an excellent alternative in spaces where maintenance, light conditions or allergies make real greenery impractical. Research indicates that the brain responds positively to lifelike, nature-inspired forms, meaning high-quality artificial plants can provide similar calming effects. They are also allergy-friendly, require virtually no upkeep and are cost-effective as they do not need watering, repotting or replacing.

Discover our blogs about ergonomics in the workplace

Our natural products make it easy to combine aesthetics, functionality and well-being."
Elisabet Nilsson, product manager at AJ Products.

Biophilia as a competitive advantage

An attractive, well-designed office has become a key factor in the competition to attract and retain talent. According to Castellum’s Working Life of the Future 2024 report, 81 percent of respondents said the office environment is important when looking for a new job. Younger generations, in particular, are drawn to workplaces that prioritise health, well-being, and sustainability.

Incorporating plant decor and biophilic design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the office but also signals consideration for employees and visitors, a modern view of health, and a commitment to sustainability. “Biophilic office design can become a competitive advantage for companies seeking to attract and retain talent. It’s a straightforward investment that makes a big difference to the ambiance of the work environment,” says Elisabet Nilsson.

Lunchroom tables and chairs
Artificial plant EVERGREEN, Grapevine
18,00 €
Artificial plant EVERGREEN, Monstera
88,00 €

Three quick tips to bring nature into the office

1. Include plants and daylight

Adding potted or hanging plants around the office and improving natural light can reduce stress and boost productivity.


2. Use natural materials

Use materials like solid wood combined with earthy colours to create a more harmonious and natural work environment.


3. Consider artificial plants

Artificial plants can also bring a sense of nature to the office and are an allergy-friendly and maintenance-free option.
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Invest in biophilia and increase productivity by up to 15%

Research shows that green and nature-inspired offices reduce stress and increase focus, which in turn can increase productivity by up to 15% (University of Exeter, The Relative Benefits of Green Versus Lean Office Space: Three Field Experiments, 2014).

Summary

Biophilic design is about creating a balance between people and the environment. Incorporating natural elements such as plants, natural light and colour in the office can reduce stress and enhance performance. As such, biophilic design is a key part of workplace ergonomics and represents an investment in well-being, productivity, and long-term health.

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We at AJ Products are always available to help you with solutions suited just for your business. Contact us if you have questions on the choice of fabric, need some inspiration or want to know the alternatives that would best suit your premises. We can then tell you more about your choices.
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FAQ

  • Biofili betyder kärlek till livet och handlar om människans naturliga dragning till naturen. På arbetsplatsen innebär det att skapa miljöer som knyter oss närmare naturens former, ljus och material.
  • Ergonomi handlar inte bara om arbetsställningar utan om hela arbetsmiljön. Biofili bidrar till mental återhämtning och trivsel, vilket är viktiga delar av en hållbar ergonomi.
  • Forskning från bland andra University of Exeter och World Green Building Council visar att naturliga inslag på arbetsplatsen minskar stress, förbättrar humöret och ökar fokus.
  • Nej. Även konstväxter och naturinspirerad inredning har visat sig skapa lugn och välbefinnande, särskilt när de är realistiskt utformade.
  • Inte alls. Små förändringar som några konstväxter, en matta i naturtoner eller bättre ljusinsläpp kan göra stor skillnad utan stora investeringar.
  • Ja. Forskning visar att en ergonomiskt planerad packstation kan halvera sjukfrånvaron vid packarbete (Shiri et al., 2011; Punnett & Wegman, 2004). Dessutom blir arbetet både effektivare och mer hållbart för kroppen, vilket gör investeringen lönsam på både kort och lång sikt.