You Can’t Afford to Ignore Biophilia in The Silicon Valley

The simple presence of natural elements like office plants can act as a buffer when dealing with the normal nine-to-five stress. Biophilia, a concept first introduced by biologist E. O. Wilson, suggest that humans are born with and innate desire to connect to nature. Whether that be a hike on the weekend, a relaxing trip to the beach, or during our work lives, we are drawn to the characteristics we find in nature. But sometimes that weekend trip just isn’t enough. Compounding this, as a society, we are spending more of our time inside than ever before.

Studies show that most Americans spend the vast majority of their time indoors. One commonly cited study, puts that number as high as 87%! This calculation includes a long 8 hour work day for 5 days a week. During this time, 42% of the respondents replied they are working in office spaces without natural light. If we are born with a desire to connect to nature in some way, wouldn’t these conditions take a toll on our overall comfort and happiness at work? Absolutely!

According to a Human Spaces Report, having interior plants can create the similar feelings of well being, as the kind, one receives from being outdoors or in nature. Adding indoor plant promotes well-being and productivity in the office, and caters to peoples innate biophilia, the desire to connect with nature. They report individual case studies where each subject averaged at an increase of 13% over all well being. This increase of well being, correlated to the individuals averaging an 8% increase in overall productivity.

There are hundreds of companies in the Silicon Valley that can’t afford for their employees to be unproductive. In fact, most companies set aside a budget to incorporate interior plants into the build out of their office space. They are making the decision to invest a little extra into their office to ensure they are creating a comfortable and energizing workplace for their employees. Biophilia is changing the way we work, live, and operate.

It isn’t always necessary to have a giant living wall or an expensive atrium in the middle of your building, but with the endless options that exist with interior plant design, there is always a way to make it work for your budget. There are several plant and container combinations our Designers at The Wright Gardner will suggest that can stay within your budget and provide the beautiful aesthetic look missing from your office.

It doesn’t matter if you’re the CEO, facilities manager, or the office manager, you have a great opportunity to bring comfort and productivity to your workplace, simply by incorporating interior plants. If you have the option to consider expensive furniture or art, please consider setting aside some of your budget to provide living, breathing art like interior plants. We were all designed to connect to nature in some capacity. Our business exists to help others make the connection. Call us soon to set up an appointment to discuss.