Modern offices incorporate more user-centred elements – the workplaces are becoming more ecological, economical and user-friendly.
The inclusion of living plants has transformed not just the aesthetic appeal but also the ergonomic aspects of office environments. The focus on sustainability and employee well-being has seen a surge in integrating living plants into office designs.
This article delves into the significant ergonomic benefits of incorporating living plants in offices, highlighting the primary features.
Natural Division with Large Planters​
The modern office layout often includes the concept of open-plan design, which, while fostering collaboration and openness, can sometimes lead to distractions and a lack of personal space. Here, large planters with lush greenery offer an ingenious solution. They act as natural barriers and screens, subtly dividing different parts of the office. This division creates a sense of individual space without erecting walls or obstructing the flow of natural light.
The presence of these large planters offers a dual benefit. Firstly, they demarcate areas such as workstations, meeting zones, and relaxation corners, enhancing the functional aspect of the space. Secondly, they contribute to the aesthetic quality of the office, replacing the starkness of traditional barriers with a more organic and refreshing element.
See how the barrier planters transformed the office of Howden Insurance Brokers in Bedford.
Improved Air Quality and Humidity
Beyond their visual appeal, plants play a crucial role in enhancing the office’s air quality. Indoor air pollution, often overlooked, can significantly impact employee health and productivity. Office plants are natural air purifiers, filtering out common pollutants found in office environments, such as benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene.
Recent epidemiological and experimental findings reconfirm that low indoor air humidity (dry air) increases the prevalence of acute eye and airway symptoms in offices, result in lower clearance in the airways, less efficient immune defence, and deteriorate the work productivity.
Plants contribute to maintaining and increasing humidity levels within the office. In air-conditioned environments, where the air can become excessively dry, this is a vital benefit. Plants release moisture into the air through a process known as transpiration, which helps in maintaining an optimal level of humidity. This natural humidification can reduce the incidence of respiratory problems and skin irritations among employees, contributing to a healthier workspace.
Conclusion
Incorporating living plants in office designs is not just a matter of aesthetics; it’s an investment in the health and well-being of employees. Large planters and green barriers enhance the ergonomic design by creating natural divisions, while the plants themselves improve air quality and humidity levels.
As we continue to evolve our workspaces, the role of plants in creating a more comfortable, efficient, and user-friendly work environment cannot be overstated. This green intervention is a step towards a more sustainable, healthy, and productive workplace.