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Insight
Home Insights Embrace the great outdoors in your office fit out
Lisa Byrne
Head of Communications
Tuesday, 24th July 2018
3 minutes read time
While the work week may confine us indoors, research shows that bringing elements of nature into our workplaces can have a profound impact on our wellbeing and productivity. Let's delve into why and how we should all be embracing a touch of the outside in the office.
The Impact of Technology
Our increasing reliance on technology has undoubtedly shaped the way we work. However, it's important to recognise the effects it has on our physical and mental wellbeing. Vision strain, poor posture, and muscular discomfort are common concerns. To counteract these effects, the concept of biophilia has gained traction in office design. Biophilia involves seamlessly integrating natural elements like wood, stone, water, and plants into indoor spaces, providing employees with a respite from the demands of technology and fostering a more harmonious and fruitful work environment.
The Link Between Environment and Wellbeing
A wealth of research supports the connection between the environment and employee wellbeing. Studies have shown that office integration with nature can lead to significant benefits:
Read on to see some inspiring examples of incorporating nature into the office.
PwC's Bristol office offers a stunning example of how to maximise the natural environment. With breathtaking views from the top, a lush patio area was created using wooden benches and rectangular planters as partitions between seating areas. This versatile outdoor setting allows for informal meetings, colleague bonding, or simply a breath of fresh air. And when the weather doesn't cooperate, floor-to-ceiling windows ensure that the view is always appreciated.
The ground floor of HMRC's Benton Park campus underwent a remarkable transformation, drawing inspiration from the scenic North East coastline. Beach hut-styled meeting pods adorned with Northern beach scenes, an indoor tree surrounded by collaborative work areas, and an inviting indoor canopy all contribute to an atrium that bathes in natural light and offers a year-round outdoor escape. Studies have shown that even visual representations of nature can reduce anxiety and enhance performance.
Interface's award-winning office fit out in Birmingham takes indoor biophilia to new heights. Natural finishes seamlessly blend with the workspace, but the true showstopper is the indoor wisteria tree gracefully winding above the coffee bar at the entrance. Its vibrant pink flowers create a striking visual centrepiece that sets the tone for the entire office. Hanging plants provide privacy and a touch of greenery to communal work areas.
At AstraZeneca's Cambridge office, employees can enjoy the splendour of the natural world without venturing far. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame expansive views of lush green lawns, mature trees, and open skies, evoking a sense of being surrounded by countryside serenity. The office fit out incorporates bespoke wooden structures that not only frame the outdoor view but also serve as unique design features. Wooden furniture, green fabric cushions, and green pillars in the breakout area perfectly complement the natural surroundings.
By embracing the great outdoors in our office fit outs, we can create environments that inspire productivity, reduce stress, and enhance overall wellbeing. Let's take inspiration from nature and infuse our workspaces with the invigorating essence of the outdoors.
NEWS