Biophilic design explained: bringing nature into the modern workplace

If you walk into any modern office today, you might notice a subtle shift away from the beige interiors and harsh lighting they were once known for. It’s not just the ergonomic chairs, open-plan layouts, or sleek lighting that’s different – it’s the greenery. 

Lush plants cascading from shelves, statement trees in reception areas, and pockets of greenery that seem to breathe life into otherwise neutral spaces. This isn’t just a trend; it’s a movement known as biophilic design.

At The Green East, we’ve seen first-hand how bringing nature into the workplace can transform spaces. From the calm of a softly lit lounge to the energy of a bustling meeting room, plants do more than decorate –  they shape the way we feel, work, and interact.

What is biophilic design?

Biophilic design is all about connecting people with nature in the built environment. 

The concept comes from the idea that humans have an innate affinity for the natural world. It’s why walking through a forest, sitting by a river, or even glimpsing a city park can instantly make you feel calmer and more focused. Biophilic design can ease the disconnection between our urban lives and the desire to be close to nature.

In offices and commercial interiors, biophilic design isn’t just about sprinkling a few plants around. It’s a holistic approach to incorporating natural elements into the workplace through:

• Living greenery – Indoor plants, moss walls, trees, and vertical gardens

• Natural light – Maximising daylight and views of the outdoors

• Natural materials – Wood, stone, and fibres that echo nature’s textures

• Patterns and forms – Curved lines, organic shapes, and natural textures

• Water features and airflow – Subtle reminders of natural movement and calm
  
  

The goal is to create spaces that feel alive, human-centred, and restorative. And when it’s done well, the results are both visually stunning and functional.

Why biophilic design matters

So why are so many businesses beginning to embrace this approach?

The visual effect is clear – but this isn’t just about aesthetics. The positive impact of nature on human psychology comes into play here.

Research suggests that biophilic design can have measurable benefits for employees and organisations alike:

Improves wellbeing 

Spaces with plants, natural materials, and daylight can reduce stress and boost mood. Simply having greenery in sight can make employees feel more relaxed and connected to their environment.

Enhances productivity

Employees in biophilic workplaces report higher levels of focus and creativity. Natural elements can improve cognitive function and reduce mental fatigue – perfect for high-pressure office environments.

Supports retention and recruitment 

A visually appealing, nature-infused workspace signals that a company cares about employee wellbeing, making it more attractive to potential employees.

Improves air quality and acoustics 

While plants aren’t magic air purifiers, they can help regulate humidity and soften noise by acting as subtle acoustic buffers.

Boosts brand perception

Thoughtful greenery demonstrates an investment in design and sustainability, which clients and visitors notice immediately.

Biophilic design in action

Globally, companies are embracing biophilic design in creative ways. A few examples highlighted by Biofilico show how offices are transforming with natural elements:

Uncommon, Holborn, London

A workspace designed to feel like a living ecosystem, filled with plants that help reduce stress and enhance focus. Natural materials, soft lighting, and flowing layouts create a calm yet energising atmosphere.

Fosbury & Sons, Amsterdam

A former Citroën garage turned biophilic co-working space, Fosbury & Sons uses greenery to softens industrial architecture. The design integrates lush planting, warm textures, and daylight to encourage creativity and connection.

Bloomberg European HQ, London

Widely recognised as one of the world’s most sustainable office buildings,  Bloomberg's office features smart ventilation systems, a living green wall, and natural materials that balance innovation with environmental sensitivity.

Airbnb Headquarters, Dublin

Designed to reflect the idea of ‘Belong Anywhere’, this space integrates plant life, natural light, and outdoor-inspired textures to boost comfort and collaboration.

Second Home, Lisbon

Second Home co-working space is a dynamic, plant-filled workspace that blurs the line between inside and out. With over 2,000 plants and trees throughout, it’s a perfect example of how biophilic design supports both creativity and wellbeing.

Amazon Spheres, Seattle

The Spheres, is a ground-breaking integration of nature into the workplace. These massive glass domes house a vibrant, multi-story indoor rainforest with over 40,000 plants from around the world, creating a unique, nature-rich environment intended to boost employee well-being, creativity, and productivity by fulfilling the innate human need to connect with nature.

Each of these shows the core principle of biophilic design – blending nature seamlessly into the workplace to enhance wellbeing and productivity.

How plant leasing supports biophilic design

Implementing biophilic design in a commercial environment doesn’t have to be complicated. 

One of the most effective ways is through plant leasing – a flexible, cost-effective approach that makes it easy to integrate greenery without the long-term commitment of purchase.

Leasing plants means:

• Regular maintenance and expert care

• Ability to swap or rotate plants seasonally

• Flexibility to adapt as your office layout changes

• Access to statement pieces such as large palms, trees, or bespoke moss walls
  
  

For workplaces, hotels, or event spaces, this is particularly useful. Plants stay healthy, interiors stay vibrant, and businesses can focus on day-to-day operations without worrying about upkeep.

Bringing biophilic design to Belfast

At The Green East, we’ve had the pleasure of bringing biophilic design to life in a variety of local projects. From large-scale fit-outs to detailed interior styling, plants play a central role in shaping spaces that feel natural, welcoming, and calm.

Some of our recent projects include:

Millar McCall Wylie at The Printworks, Belfast
In this modern office fit-out from Somervilles, greenery was integrated throughout to create calm, inspiring pockets. Sculptural palms and cascading philodendrons defined meeting areas and break-out zones, adding depth and rhythm to the industrial interior.

Clockwise, Belfast
When global office space provider Clockwise opened its Belfast location, we fitted the modern office spaces with a mix of low-maintenance plants – including Pothos, Bird of Paradise, Monstera, and Aglaonema – to create a natural, uplifting atmosphere. To bring an interactive, sensory element to the space, we also hosted hands-on plant workshops for their community.

The Regency Hotel, Belfast
For this boutique hotel, we used ZZ Plants, Chinese Evergreens, Birds of Paradise, Monsteras, and Philodendrons to bring life to corners, corridors, and communal spaces. Black and grey planters complemented the furnishings, creating a sleek, sophisticated backdrop for the lush greenery.

These examples show how biophilic design works beautifully not just in high-profile international spaces but in local workplaces and hospitality environments too.

And it’s not just for offices and hotels – homeowners can bring the same principles into living spaces. Even a single statement plant or a small moss wall can make a home office, hallway, or living room feel brighter, calmer, and more connected to nature.

Simple tips to bring nature into your workspace

Whether you’re designing a corporate office or sprucing up your home office, a few simple steps can make a big difference:

1. Start with statement plants – Large-leaved species or small indoor trees immediately draw the eye and create a natural focal point.
   
   

2. Think vertically – Use hanging planters, wall-mounted greenery, or tiered shelving to maximise greenery without sacrificing floor space.
   
   

3. Mix textures and colours – Combine leafy plants with moss walls or grasses to create depth and interest.
   
   

4. Incorporate natural materials – Wood, stone, and natural fibres complement the plants and enhance the biophilic effect.
   
   

5. Rotate and refresh – Even hardy plants benefit from seasonal rotation or replacement to keep the space feeling alive.

Why biophilic design works

The power of biophilic design lies in its simplicity. It reconnects people with nature in a way that’s practical, visually appealing, and easy to maintain. Plants, textures, and natural forms reduce stress, improve wellbeing, and transform everyday spaces into places people genuinely enjoy spending time in.

By integrating greenery thoughtfully, workplaces and homes alike benefit from a sense of calm, creativity, and vibrancy that furniture or décor alone can’t achieve.

Bringing biophilic design to life with The Green East

At The Green East, we combine plant expertise with design know-how to deliver spaces that are both beautiful and functional. From offices and hotels to private homes, our team curates plant schemes that work with your layout, lighting, and lifestyle. Every project is tailored to create calm, inspiring environments that support wellbeing and productivity.

If you’re interested in plant leasing or someone to transform your workplace – we’d love to help! Send us an email on plants@thegreeneast.co.uk.