All people have biophilia, which is a person’s innate need for nature. Sometimes an office space can be the exact opposite of a natural space, and apart from your staff’s biological need to be near nature, studies have shown that there are so many more benefits to incorporating greenery into your corporate space.
1- They reduce stress
In a 2010 study by the University of Technology in Sydney, it was found that once a workplace introduced plants to their workspace, a 37% drop in tension and anxiety was reported, as well as a 58% drop in depression and dejection, a 44% decrease in anger and hostility and a 38% decrease in fatigue. Just one plant per workspace allowed the company to provide a lift to their staff’s spirits, which, down the line, promotes wellbeing and performance.
2- They increase productivity
A ”lean” working environment, isn’t necessarily a productive one. While minimal décor might be all the rage, especially in a corporate setting, a 2014 study by the University of Exeter found that when an office is filled with a few houseplants, productivity increases by 15%! Dr. Chris Knight affirms that one plant per square meter can improve memory retention and can help employees score higher on other basic tests. He continues that each employee should be able to see a plant from their desk, as this will help them be more psychologically engaged, making your staff happier and helping them work better.
3- They make your company look more attractive
Did you know that one third of applicants say that workplace design can affect their decision to join a company? When one in five people have no natural elements in their workspace, and 50% of workers say that they have no natural light, be the place that stands out in the crowd!
4- They help reduce noise levels
Having plants or green walls incorporated into your office décor will help to absorb ambient noise – think of office plants as insulation against noise pollution. Distracting office chatter will be no more once you have added some greenery! Researchers at London South Bank University have even found that by adding larger plants in multiple spots in the edges and cornes of an office can have a positive benefit!
5- They can increase creativity
Attention restoration theory suggests that just by looking at nature or natural elements – even if it’s just a picture – can change the brain’s processing mode, which in turn will help your staff feel more relaxed, helping them concentre better. Further to that, a 2015 report found that staff in an office that includes natural elements score 15% higher for creativity than those who work in a more ”lean” environment.
Ultimately, it doesn’t take much – just a few plants – to turn your workplace into a happier, more productive office. If you’re unsure about the maintenance required for having plants in your office, like the necessary sun and regular watering schedules, we suggest you opt for artificial plants and faux greenery! They are maintenance free, and they will look their best from the first day that you bring them in, and will last you years!
Sources:
http://www.voirvert.ca/communaute/wiki/biophilie
https://www.ngia.com.au/Attachment?Action=Download&Attachment_id=1430
https://www.theguardian.com/money/2014/aug/31/plants-offices-workers-productive-minimalist-employees
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/global-study-connects-levels-of-employee-productivity-and-well-being-to-office-design-300058034.html
https://greenplantsforgreenbuildings.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Silence-of-the-Palms_Costa1.pdf
https://theconversation.com/not-just-nice-to-have-nature-in-the-workplace-makes-employees-happier-and-healthier-80077
