Designing Natural Work Environments for Success

Incorporating natural elements into the workplace is a design trend that enhances appearance and employee wellbeing by reflecting the colours and textures of nature

Incorporating natural elements into the workplace is a leading interior design trend that remains highly popular. Perfecting natural design elements goes beyond just adding potted plants – modern workspaces aim to incorporate and mimic the shapes, colours and textures found in nature, bringing the essence of outdoor environments indoors.

Here’s how dealers can help customers to create natural environments that not only enhance employee wellbeing but are also visually appealing and easy to maintain and refresh.

Textures and Materials

For easy and effective natural enhancements in the workspace, dealers can recommend stone and wooden furniture like shelving and countertops. For a more distinctive touch, adding salt lamps and natural fabrics such as linen and wool for soft furnishings can create a warm, inviting atmosphere in breakout spaces and reception areas.

Capturing Natural Light

Relying exclusively on artificial lighting can lead to eye strain and fatigue, making it challenging to focus and stay productive during the day. Dealers can assist customers in maximising natural light by optimising workspace layouts to avoid obstructing windows and light sources. Incorporating low-level furniture and open shelving can help minimise shadows and blockages. Additionally, adding mirrors and reflective surfaces, such as on interior doors, can help disperse light evenly throughout the space.

Colours and Accessories

When aiming for a natural aesthetic, greens and blues may initially seem like the go-to colours. However, shades of blue can sometimes create a chilly atmosphere in a space. Therefore, it’s important to pair these cooler tones with warmer hues that can brighten and uplift the room. Incorporating soft yellows, warm earthy browns, and terracotta can create a balanced and inviting environment.

Warmer colours can be introduced through elements such as soft furnishings like cushions and throws, desktop accessories and colour-coordinated seating options. For instance, adding a soft yellow throw blanket on a blue chair can create a cosy focal point for an informal meeting space. Similarly, terracotta planters or brown wooden shelves can add depth and warmth, complementing cooler colours while promoting a sense of comfort and tranquillity.

Sounds and Movement

In visitor areas and breakout rooms, incorporating elements of natural movement can instill a sense of energy and vibrancy while fostering a welcoming ambiance. Although installing a water feature in the reception area may be too costly for some clients, there are simpler and budget-friendly alternatives. Options like climbing plant walls, indoor rock gardens, and natural room dividers made from reclaimed wood can effectively introduce movement and life to the space.

By incorporating these design elements, dealers can assist customers in creating workspaces that boost wellbeing and productivity, creating a well-balanced environment infused with nature.