One of the upcoming office design trends of the year is called “Second Nature”: the incorporation of living, green plants into commercial workspaces.

When you think of an office plant, do you picture a sad, potted fern struggling to find light in a drab corporate cubicle? Those days are long gone in today’s office design. The latest office renovation trends include green walls, which bring the outdoors into the workspace in incredible new ways. Successful businesses are always on the lookout for innovation, and office design is no exception. 

What is Biophiliac Design?

“Biophilia” is a philosophy built around humanities innate need to connect with nature and our natural environment. In our indoor, concrete worlds, we are missing the basic benefits that exposure to fresh air, green trees and plants, water, and the whole natural environment. Biophiliac Design is reshaping how we interact with our everyday spaces.

It is a philosophy that brings in natural elements like green walls, plants, water, natural wood, and other Biophiliac features. These design choices create the same responses in humans as when we are exposed to these elements in the natural world. 

Natural Elements in Commercial Design

Incorporating biophiliac design and reconnecting with nature is an emerging trend in interior design. When it comes to commercial and office spaces, “Second Nature” is a renovation choice that can have a huge impact on the entire feel of a business. Some elements of the Second Nature trend are the use of natural materials and forms like wood and stone, as well as natural lighting. Other characteristics include:

  • Thermal comfort
  • Visual connections with the outdoors
  • High-quality ventilation
  • WELL certifications
  • FitWel certifications
  • LEED certifications
  • Biophilliac Design

Green Walls

Living Walls are an upcoming trend that adds both beauty and Biophiliac Design to an office environment. Green walls are also known as Vertical Gardens, and they improve employee’s energy levels and alertness, improves air quality, and enhances the beauty of the building. Moss Walls are a good place to start and have many of the same benefits on a smaller scale. 

Even a few small changes in your office environment can have a huge impact on your employees, clients, and prospective employees and clients. Take our Office Renovation Quiz to get customized information and expert advice on your office renovation. Contact us today to learn more.