In today’s fast-paced corporate world, companies are continuously seeking innovative ways to enhance productivity and employee well-being. One of the most effective solutions is incorporating vertical gardens into the office environment. Also known as living walls, plant walls, and green walls, these installations offer a host of benefits, from improving mental health to boosting overall productivity.
Why Workplaces Need Improvements
The role buildings play in human health and well-being has never been more critical. With advancing research, we now better understand how our physical environment impacts our health. We can design spaces that promote health and well-being instead of hindering it. This includes improving the quality of our air, water, and light, creating environments that energize us, keep us active, connected, and inspired, and support a good night’s sleep. By focusing on these elements, workplaces can significantly enhance employee health and productivity.
What’s the WELL Building Standard?
The WELL Building Standard™ version 2 (WELL v2™) provides a framework for creating healthier and more thoughtful spaces in buildings and organizations. WELL v2 incorporates the latest scientific research and offers strategies to improve human health through design interventions, operational protocols, and policies. This standard builds on the pioneering work of WELL v1 and incorporates insights from a diverse community of users, practitioners, public health professionals, and building scientists worldwide. WELL v2 aims to foster a culture of health and well-being in the built environment.
How Vertical Gardens Enhance Productivity
Do Plants Make You More Productive?
Yes, plants do make you more productive! Numerous studies have demonstrated the positive impact of greenery on productivity in the workplace. According to a study published by University of Melbourne researchers Kate Lee, Kathryn Williams, Leisa Sargent, Nicholas Williams, and Katherine Johnson, and later highlighted in the Harvard Business Review, simply gazing at nature can significantly increase your productivity. The study found that participants who gazed at a picture of a green roof during a 40-second break after a routine task were more attentive and better at performing tasks. Those who saw the green roof experienced a 6% increase in concentration levels, while participants who viewed the concrete roof showed an 8% decrease in concentration.
Do Plants Improve Air Quality?
One of the primary benefits of a living wall for office spaces is the improvement of air quality. Plants naturally filter toxins from the air, creating a healthier breathing environment. This reduction in indoor pollutants leads to fewer sick days and a more focused workforce. Enhanced air quality is directly linked to better cognitive function, allowing employees to work more efficiently and effectively.
The WELL Building Standard™ Version 2 (WELL v2™) emphasizes air quality as a critical component of indoor environments. Features such as A01 (Air Quality) and A05 (Enhanced Air Quality) focus on maintaining high levels of air quality throughout a building’s lifetime by implementing diverse strategies that include source elimination, active and passive building design, and operational strategies.
Does Greenery Improve Mental Health?
Absolutely. The presence of plants in the workplace has been shown to reduce stress levels and improve overall mental health. According to WELL v2’s Mind Concept – Features M01 (Mental Health Promotion) and M02 (Nature and Place), incorporating natural elements into interior spaces addresses our inherent need to be around living things and natural processes. Exposure to views and images of nature can speed up recovery times, enhance positive emotions, and decrease negative feelings. Environments that are sterile and devoid of life can negatively impact our mood and overall sense of well-being.
By integrating office green walls, businesses can create an environment that is both calming and visually pleasing, which helps reduce stress and anxiety. This biophilic design approach leads to improved morale and a more positive workplace culture, ultimately fostering a healthier, happier, and more productive work environment.
Practical Benefits of Vertical Gardens in the Office
Plant Walls for the Office
A plant wall for office spaces not only maximizes the use of vertical space but also adds a touch of natural beauty to the environment. These walls can be customized to fit any space, large or small, making them a versatile option for offices of all sizes. By integrating a plant wall, businesses can create a visually appealing and inviting atmosphere that encourages creativity and collaboration.
Moss Walls for the Office
For businesses looking for a low-maintenance option, moss walls for office spaces are an excellent choice. These preserved moss installations require little to no upkeep while still offering the aesthetic and psychological benefits of natural greenery. Moss walls are perfect for areas with limited natural light, making them ideal for interior spaces without direct sunlight.
Does Greenery Increase Productivity in Business?
The answer is a resounding yes. Incorporating greenery into the workplace has been shown to increase productivity. This boost in productivity is attributed to the combination of improved air quality, reduced stress, and a more stimulating work environment. Businesses that invest in vertical gardens often see a return on investment through enhanced employee performance and reduced absenteeism.
Conclusion
Vertical gardens, whether they are living walls or moss walls, offer numerous benefits for creating a greener, more productive workplace. From improving air quality to enhancing mental health and increasing overall productivity, these installations are a valuable addition to any office. By embracing the natural power of plants, businesses in San Diego and Los Angeles can create healthier, happier, and more efficient work environments.
Investing in a vertical garden is more than just a design choice; it’s a commitment to the well-being and success of your employees and your business. If you’re ready to transform your office with a vertical garden, contact us today to learn more about our services. Let’s make your workplace greener and more productive together.
