 {"id":4416,"date":"2024-08-22T01:00:00","date_gmt":"2024-08-22T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/?p=4416"},"modified":"2024-08-22T04:21:53","modified_gmt":"2024-08-22T03:21:53","slug":"the-benefits-of-having-plants-in-the-office","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/the-benefits-of-having-plants-in-the-office\/","title":{"rendered":"The Benefits of Having Plants in the Office"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-4413\" src=\"https:\/\/www.londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/the-benefits-of-having-plants-in-the-office-open-plan-workspace-with-indoor-plants-londonofficespace.com_.jpg\" alt=\"A daytime view across the inside of a modern, open-plan office space with a polished concrete floor, chrome pendant lights hanging from the ceiling and floor-to-ceiling windows letting in muted sunlight, probably from an overcast sky. Indoor plants are arranged artfully in round bronze-coloured pots next to the rectangular white columns that rise to the ceiling in the middle of the workspace, and workstations are arranged next to the windows. Image at LondonOfficeSpace.com.\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" srcset=\"https:\/\/londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/the-benefits-of-having-plants-in-the-office-open-plan-workspace-with-indoor-plants-londonofficespace.com_.jpg 640w, https:\/\/londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/the-benefits-of-having-plants-in-the-office-open-plan-workspace-with-indoor-plants-londonofficespace.com_-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In recent years, there has been a significant shift towards<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/wellness-in-office-design\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">prioritising well-being in the workplace<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. As time goes by, businesses have a better understanding of how the environment impacts employee health and productivity. In a 2021 survey, nearly 70% of executives rated<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/jeannemeister\/2021\/08\/04\/the-future-of-work-is-worker-well-being\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">well-being as a top priority for their organisation<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As a result, many companies are increasingly focusing on their office workers&#8217; quality of life, creating office spaces that support both physical and mental well-being. One of the most popular and effective ways to increase productivity and improve different measures of workplace satisfaction is by incorporating plants in the office, as we will see in this article.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>The Physical Benefits of Indoor Office Plants<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, creating an oxygen-rich environment and <\/span><b>improved air quality<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Previously conducted laboratory studies by NASA have shown that<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nachi.org\/plants-indoor-air-quality.htm\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">plants can filter out volatile organic compounds<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and other harmful toxins present in plastics, inks, cleaning products, and some types of insulation.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Indoor plants can also <\/span><b>regulate humidity levels<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. According to the HSE,<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.hse.gov.uk\/foi\/internalops\/ocs\/300-399\/oc311_2.htm\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">low humidity is one of the causes behind sick building syndrome<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Offices often suffer from dry air due to<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/from-frosty-to-toasty-decoding-the-uks-office-temperature-conundrum\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">temperature control<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, heating and air conditioning systems and layouts that interfere with airflow. Plants draw water from the roots to their leaves, releasing moisture into the air and helping maintain optimal humidity levels.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><!--more--><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Moreover, plants can <\/span><b>reduce noise levels<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in office spaces. When placed around a room\u2019s perimeter or along partitions,<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ambius.com\/resources\/insights\/how-plants-reduce-noise\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">plants can absorb, deflect, or refract background noise<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, making for a quieter and more peaceful working environment. Introducing more greenery like green walls or even just some desk plants is especially beneficial in open-plan offices that need noise-mitigating measures.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-4415\" src=\"https:\/\/www.londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/the-benefits-of-having-plants-in-the-office-living-green-wall-inside-warehouse-style-office-building-londonofficespace.com_.jpg\" alt=\"View of a living green wall that stretches from the floor to the ceiling as a partition in the atrium of a warehouse-style office building. Image at LondonOfficeSpace.com.\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" srcset=\"https:\/\/londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/the-benefits-of-having-plants-in-the-office-living-green-wall-inside-warehouse-style-office-building-londonofficespace.com_.jpg 640w, https:\/\/londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/the-benefits-of-having-plants-in-the-office-living-green-wall-inside-warehouse-style-office-building-londonofficespace.com_-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><b>The Psychological Benefits of Office Plants<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Several studies have shown that exposure to nature, even in the form of indoor plants, can have a positive impact on mental health. First of all, the presence of greenery in indoor spaces can <\/span><b>reduce stress<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. UK researchers found that plants with rounded leaves and with a canopy shape were rated as being<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/research.reading.ac.uk\/research-blog\/owning-houseplants-can-boost-your-mental-health-heres-how-to-pick-the-right-one\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">the most relaxing and conducive to well-being<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, as they were associated with positive memories.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Indoor plants also contribute to <\/span><b>increased job satisfaction<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Employees who work in environments that incorporate natural elements have been found to have up to<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/architecturenow.co.nz\/articles\/the-global-impact-of-biophilic-design-in-the-workplace\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">15% higher levels of creativity<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and are on average 6% more productive.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Also, the presence of plants can <\/span><b>strengthen our connection with nature<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which is particularly important in urban office settings where access to green spaces may be limited and where we\u2019re constantly surrounded by electronic devices.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Last but not least, plants can <\/span><b>improve cognitive functioning<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Research shows that<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/mentalhouseplants.com\/blogs\/benefits\/research-overview-effects-of-indoor-plants-on-self-reported-perceptions-a-systemic-review\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">being around plants can improve concentration, memory, and creativity<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, since exposure to them can help with mental fatigue. This is particularly valuable in high-pressure work environments where focus and precision are a must.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>How Plants Benefits Businesses<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Earlier in this article, we\u2019ve seen that exposure to indoor plants can lead to increased productivity. A more productive workforce means that businesses can expect better outcomes and higher efficiency when meeting objectives. This can translate into <\/span><b>improved financial performance and a stronger competitive edge<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Another benefit involves a <\/span><b>better company image and reputation<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. A well-designed work environment that prioritises employee well-being sends a positive message to clients and potential employees. It demonstrates a commitment to creating a supportive and<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/sustainability-office-value-central-london\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">sustainable<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> working environment, which is especially important now given the<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.viritopia.com\/blog\/the-impact-of-biophilic-design-on-customer-experience\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">growing awareness about biophilic and human-centred design<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Not only that, an office with plenty of greenery and natural light makes a strong visual impact on visitors and reinforces the company\u2019s brand and values.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Moreover, the presence of indoor plants can contribute to a more <\/span><b>collaborative and creative work culture<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. When employees are more relaxed and open to dialogue, this can encourage teamwork and innovation, leading to more effective problem-solving and idea generation.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Finally, investing in indoor plants can be a <\/span><b>cost-effective<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> way to improve the office-based working environment. Not every business can invest in an office fit-out or in wellness initiatives for large teams, but plants are a relatively inexpensive upgrade to an indoor environment that requires minimal maintenance. In other words, introducing plants to the workspace offers a high return on investment to companies of all sizes, so they are a smart choice for businesses looking to create a healthier and more vibrant work environment without going over budget.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-4414\" src=\"https:\/\/www.londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/the-benefits-of-having-plants-in-the-office-path-between-plants-in-office-tower-londonofficespace.com_.jpg\" alt=\"A view down on a raised, winding path connecting different parts of a modern office tower. A few businesspeople are walking down the path at the top of the image, and the path is lined with abundant plants and trees that rise up from the lower levels of the building. Image at LondonOfficeSpace.com.\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" srcset=\"https:\/\/londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/the-benefits-of-having-plants-in-the-office-path-between-plants-in-office-tower-londonofficespace.com_.jpg 640w, https:\/\/londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/the-benefits-of-having-plants-in-the-office-path-between-plants-in-office-tower-londonofficespace.com_-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><b>Conclusion<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bringing indoor plants into office spaces has multiple benefits: by improving air quality, regulating humidity, reducing stress levels and boosting cognitive function, plants can significantly create important improvements in the physical and psychological well-being of employees. For businesses, this translates into a more productive and engaged workforce, a better reputation, and stronger collaboration within and between teams.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><i>Looking for a green workspace in London?<\/i><\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Has the above inspired you to include more plants in your office? Or maybe you&#8217;d prefer a move-in-ready office space in<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.londonofficespace.com\/city-and-central\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Central London<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> that&#8217;s already brimming with greenery? We have various choices for serviced offices and workspaces across Central and<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.londonofficespace.com\/greater-london\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Greater London<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> that focus on bringing nature into the office. Call us on 020 3965 9617 to speak with a member of our friendly team. Our office space experts will help you and your business locate the perfect office in London to fit your business&#8217;s individual requirements.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For further reading, below are some of our other recent articles on workspaces, the workplace, and London&#8217;s office space market:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/cycling-to-work-in-london-bike-friendly-office-locations\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cycling to Work in London: Bike-Friendly Office Locations<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/london-office-market-report-2024\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">London Office Market Report 2024<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/office-design-trends-in-central-london-office-space\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Office Design Trends in Central London Office Space<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/new-developments-in-london-office-space-central\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">New Developments in London Office Space: Central<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/benefits-of-modular-office-furniture-for-flexible-workspaces\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Benefits of Modular Office Furniture for Flexible Workspaces<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/how-to-upgrade-your-office-space-in-central-london\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to Upgrade Your Office Space in Central London<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/navigating-central-london-office-market-trends\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Navigating Central London Office Market Trends<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/emerging-areas-for-affordable-office-space-london\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Emerging Areas for Affordable Office Space: London<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>In recent years, there has been a significant shift towards prioritising well-being in the workplace. As time goes by, businesses have a better understanding of how the environment impacts employee health and productivity. In a 2021 survey, nearly 70% of executives rated well-being as a top priority for their organisation. As a result, many companies [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[616,200,325,480,8,162],"tags":[618,617,582,26,619],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4416"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4416"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4416\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4417,"href":"https:\/\/londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4416\/revisions\/4417"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4416"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4416"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/londonofficespace.com\/buzz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4416"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}