By: Elisa Feola, VP of Marketing
October 19, 2023
Every workplace environment influences productivity, creativity, and overall well-being. Many organizations recognize the benefits of incorporating natural elements into their design, not only to beautify the space, but also improve employee satisfaction, reduce stress, and increase overall productivity. While live plants are a popular choice for adding a natural touch to the workspace, there are numerous other ways to bring nature into the workplace design without the challenges and maintenance that living plants require.
Here are ten ways to bring in nature without having to care for living elements.
- Natural Materials: Incorporating natural materials like wood, stone, or even bamboo can instantly create a more organic and nature-inspired atmosphere. Use these materials for furniture, flooring, and decor elements. Wooden desks, stone countertops, and bamboo partitions can evoke a sense of nature.
- Biophilic Artwork: Consider using biophilic artwork that features natural landscapes, wildlife, or botanical prints. Large wall murals or framed nature-inspired paintings can be a visually appealing way to connect employees with the natural world. Lighting design can be in the image, shape of leaves, animals, and water.
- Natural Light: Maximize the use of natural light by ensuring that workspaces have ample access to windows. Incorporate translucent or sheer window treatments to soften the light and reduce glare. Sunlight not only reduces energy costs but also has a positive effect on employee well-being.
- Earth-Toned Color Palette: Choose a color scheme that mimics the natural world, using earthy tones like greens, blues, and browns. These colors can create a calming and harmonious environment that is reminiscent of the outdoors.
- Water Features: The soothing sound of flowing water can be an excellent way to introduce nature into the workplace. You can get the effect without flowing water fountains with digital screens displaying water-themed visuals and sounds creating a calming effect.
- Natural Textures: Use textures that mimic the outdoors, such as grass cloth wallpaper, or upholstery with a natural feel. Textures like these can add depth and a tactile connection to nature. Thoughtful imagery can be a soothing element which also brings a luxurious aesthetic and can support the organizations brand.
- Open Design and Views: Promote an open office layout that allows for unobstructed views of the outdoors. A well-placed workstation can offer employees a connection to nature through windows and outdoor vistas.
- Nature-Inspired Furniture: opt for furniture designs that reflect natural shapes and forms. Curved, organic designs can mimic the lines and patterns found in nature. A tabletop with rounded edges, fabrics and finishes of wood and natural grains, and repurposed items such as hooks, and shelving fashioned from tree branches.
- Indoor Nature Workshops: Encourage employees to participate in workshops or activities related to nature, such as terrarium building, flower arranging, or even meditation sessions in a designated nature-inspired area.
Bringing nature into workplace design without living plants is not only achievable, but also practical. By implementing this list of ten elements, you can create a workspace that fosters a deep connection to the natural world, enhances employee well-being, and ultimately contributes to a more productive and enjoyable work environment.