It’s quite likely that you’ve clicked on this title because you’re not sure what biophilic design is, so we’ll start off with a definition. It’s a concept used within the construction industry which aims to increase the connection of the inhabitants of a building to the natural environment through the utilisation of different aspects of nature within the space. Basically, it’s transforming a workplace by bringing the outside inside.
You’re probably thinking that it’s the latest trend in interior design, and you’d be right, but in fact the whole concept goes back thousands of years. From the semi-mythical Hanging Gardens of Babylon, where plants such as cedar, rosewood, pomegranate, myrrh and willow were said to have been draped over terraces and walls, to Renaissance loggias and Victorian orangeries and the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed house in Pennsylvania built right over a waterfall, countless generations have understood the benefits to their mental and physical health of surrounding themselves with nature and greenery. Research suggests that even a few houseplants in a room can lighten mood, reduce stress and improve air quality.
Biophilic design in the commercial fit out and refurbishment sector has surged in popularity and is set to become one of the major styles of 2025. It involves the use of environmental features, natural patterns and shapes and the optimum application of natural light and space. Examples include:
The inclusion of greenery
This is probably the primary focus of biophilic design. Strategic planting can turn a workplace into an uplifting and striking space and transform plain areas into vibrant and organic settings. Greenery can help absorb noise, moderate temperature and create a calming atmosphere. The incorporation of living walls is one way to bring planting inside, particularly if floor space is at a premium. These are vertical structures covered with vegetation and containing an integrated hydration system. A living wall can provide numerous benefits for employees in a workplace; for people who live and work in cities it can often be the only contact with nature during the day. Greenery within a development will also help filter the air of pollutants and release oxygen, so there are considerable sustainability benefits to both people and buildings as well.
The use of natural, earthy colours
Natural colours help people feel grounded and connected with the outside world and can even help to lower blood pressure. They can evoke a tranquil, nurturing atmosphere which makes people feel comfortable and at ease, in contrast to today’s high tech digital working environments.
Research has demonstrated that shades of blue can relieve stress but don’t disrupt focus, with the consequence that work is carried out more efficiently. Greens help reduce eye strain caused by too much time at a screen.
The installation of water features
Water features can have many benefits when incorporated into a workplace refit or refurbishment. Today’s offices are largely air-conditioned and, from a practical point of view, a water feature can help to reduce the drying effect by adding some humidity to the air. Water features are also well-documented stress relievers and the sound and sight of gently flowing water is one of nature’s most calming effects.
Bringing sunlight into a development by the use of a light tube
Natural light is essential in biophilic design – it improves mood, energy levels and general wellbeing. One of its benefits in the workplace is the regulation of circadian rhythms, which help control sleep patterns, hormone release and immune systems. It goes without saying that a healthy, happy workforce is a productive one, so the more light which can be channelled into a development, the better. Rooms with no windows can be improved by installing lighting which mimics natural daylight, or by the insertion of a light tube, otherwise known as a sun tunnel. These tubes transmit light by refraction and internal reflection and can transform a windowless area into a bright and mood-raising space. They can be rigid if the light travels directly from one point to another, or flexible if the journey through the building’s infrastructure is more complicated.
Here at Oakwhite we’re old hands at incorporating biophilic elements into our commercial fit out and refurbishment work throughout the UK. We work hard to complete each job to our clients’ total satisfaction, and they know we always complete projects on time and on budget.
If you’re interested in incorporating biophilic design into your refurbishment or fit-out, contact us via email, or give us a call on 01403 586062 and have a chat with one of our helpful team members.