Nature's Hacks to Boost Your Productivity
By Aisyah Binti Saiful Bahri
Have you been struggling to maintain work productivity? Did you know that the environment plays an essential role in influencing our mood, drive and performance?
A conducive work setting helps to increase efficiency, whereas a dull workspace is far less inspiring for many of us. Seeing green shrubs and colourful flowers growing on campus and office compounds is always refreshing. These biophilic or natural elements enhance the aesthetic appeal and uplift the mood to begin our day at work. Consequently, it has become an essential factor in design and architecture to form better living and working spaces.
Biophilia simply means “love for living things”. It describes humans’ natural tendency to seek connection with nature and other living beings. Thus, this explains the positive impacts it has on us. The Jewel in Singapore (pictured) stands as a true manifestation of biophilia in architecture, embodying the harmonious blending of nature and urban public space. Located within Changi Airport, it showcases the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, the Rain Vortex, at the centre of its forested promenade, captivating visitors with its biophilic allure.
But when it comes to work spaces, how can biophilic elements benefit us? According to research, some benefits include increased productivity, enhanced creativity and reduced stress. So, if you’d like to try it out for yourself, here are some ways to incorporate elements of nature where you work.
- Indoor plants. Include a variety of indoor plants to improve air quality and create a soothing atmosphere. They are easy to care for and low maintenance too!
- Biophilic patterns and textures. Decorate your space with natural materials. For example, wood, stone or nature-inspired artwork to provide a calming effect.
- Environmental stimuli. Consider natural sounds in your playlist! Include sounds of birds or flowing water to mimic being outdoors. Additionally, you can use an air diffuser with natural scents to set a pleasant ambience.
This trend is gaining popularity as more people become aware of the importance of creating healthier and sustainable living. Elevate your work experience with biophilic elements to enhance your well-being and productivity!
Source:
Adbelaal, M.S. & Soebarto, V. (2018). History Matters: The Origin of Biophilic Design of Innovative Learning Spaces in Traditional Architecture. Archnet-IJAR: International Journal of Architectural Research. 12 (3), 108-127. http://dx.doi.org/10.26687/archnet-ijar.v12i3.1655
Berto, R. & Barbiero, G. (2022). Biophilia. Oxford Bibliographies.
https://www.oxfordbibliographies.com/display/document/obo-9780199830060/obo-9780199830060-0239.xml