Incorporating Biophilic Design in Coworking Spaces for a Healthier Workday

When I walk into a coworking space filled with plants, natural light, and fresh air, I instantly feel more at ease and focused.

That’s the power of biophilic design—bringing nature into your workspace in a way that feels natural and uplifting.

By adding elements like greenery, sunlight, and natural materials to coworking spaces, you can boost comfort, creativity, and productivity.

I’ve seen how even small changes, like adding a living wall or using wood textures, can transform the mood of a shared office.

Spaces that embrace nature often feel more welcoming and help people work better together.

When you blend functional design with natural elements, you create an environment that supports both well-being and collaboration.

This approach goes beyond looks—it creates a space where people want to spend time.

From vertical gardens and moss walls to open layouts with plenty of sunlight, the right choices can make your coworking space healthier and more inspiring.

Understanding Biophilic Design in Coworking Spaces

I see how adding elements from nature can make a workspace feel more welcoming and comfortable.

When I work in an environment with greenery, daylight, and natural textures, I notice a difference in my focus, mood, and energy.

These changes aren’t just about appearances—they affect how well I work and how I feel.

Definition and Principles

I define biophilic design as a way of shaping spaces so they include parts of the natural environment.

This can mean adding plants, using wood and stone, or letting in more sunlight.

The main principles focus on three ideas:

1. Direct contact with nature – plants, water, fresh air.
2. Natural patterns and materials – wood grain, stone textures, organic shapes.
3. Nature-inspired spaces – layouts that mimic outdoor environments.

In coworking spaces, these principles help create areas that feel less artificial.

I’ve seen spaces use vertical gardens and moss walls to bring life into otherwise plain rooms.

Even small touches—like a wooden desk or a view of trees—can make a difference.

The Human Connection to Nature

I believe people have an instinctive need to connect with nature.

This idea, called biophilia, explains why I feel calmer when I’m near plants or natural light.

In workplaces, this connection can reduce stress and help me stay focused.

Studies show that natural elements can support both mental and physical well-being.

I’ve noticed how a coworking space with greenery and sunlight feels more energizing than one with only artificial light and plain walls.

Even if I can’t access the outdoors, I still feel connected to nature through design.

For example, coworking spaces that integrate natural elements often use plant arrangements, nature-inspired art, and large windows to keep that link strong.

Biophilic Design vs. Traditional Office Design

When I compare biophilic design to traditional office setups, the differences stand out.

Traditional offices often rely on artificial lighting, uniform layouts, and synthetic materials.

Biophilic design focuses on comfort and well-being.

It uses daylight instead of harsh overhead lights, plants instead of bare corners, and natural textures instead of plastic surfaces.

Here’s a quick comparison:

A biophilic coworking space feels more inviting and helps me work in a way that feels natural and less forced.

Core Benefits of Biophilic Design for Coworking Environments

When natural elements fill my workspace, I feel more focused and less tense.

Plants, daylight, and natural textures can influence how I think, how I work, and how I interact with people around me.

Enhanced Productivity and Creativity

When I work in a space with greenery and natural light, I find it easier to stay on task.

My attention lasts longer, and I spend less time feeling distracted.

Biophilic features like living walls, indoor plants, and open views can spark new ideas.

A well-lit space with natural materials can make brainstorming sessions more productive.

A coworking area that blends nature into its design often supports both creativity and innovation.

According to studies on biophilic offices, people in nature-inspired spaces tend to produce higher-quality work in less time.

Even small touches like wood finishes or a desk near a window can make a noticeable difference in my output.

Improved Well-Being and Reduced Stress

I feel calmer when I’m surrounded by natural elements.

Soft lighting, plants, and fresh air help reduce my stress levels during busy workdays.

Biophilic coworking spaces often improve mental health by creating a relaxing atmosphere.

This can lead to fewer headaches, less fatigue, and better mood stability.

Features like green walls and indoor gardens can also improve physical health by filtering air pollutants.

In some coworking spaces, I notice how these features make the air feel cleaner and easier to breathe.

Research on biophilic coworking environments shows a link between nature-inspired design and reduced stress hormones.

Boosted Cognitive Function

When I work in a space with natural light and fresh air, I feel more alert.

My memory and problem-solving skills seem sharper.

Natural lighting helps regulate my circadian rhythm, which improves my sleep quality.

Better sleep means clearer thinking during the day.

Spaces that include visual connections to nature—like views of trees or water—can improve focus and speed up decision-making.

This is especially helpful when I’m tackling complex projects.

A coworking space designed with biophilic principles can help me process information faster and make fewer mistakes.

As research on workspace design suggests, these benefits are linked to better brain function.

Community and Collaboration

Biophilic coworking spaces tend to feel more welcoming.

Natural elements make common areas more inviting, which encourages people to talk and share ideas.

When the environment feels open and comfortable, I’m more likely to start a conversation with someone new.

This often leads to collaboration and even long-term professional connections.

Shared green spaces, like indoor gardens or rooftop terraces, create natural gathering points.

These spots make it easier for me to network without feeling forced.

As coworking design trends show, integrating plants and open layouts can strengthen a sense of community while supporting creativity and teamwork.

Essential Biophilic Elements to Incorporate

I focus on design details that bring nature into the workspace in ways people can see, touch, and hear.

These elements help create a healthier and more inviting environment while also supporting focus, creativity, and comfort.

Natural Light and Views of Nature

I always start by maximizing natural light.

Large windows, skylights, or glass partitions let sunlight reach deep into the space.

This reduces the need for artificial lighting during the day and helps regulate my energy levels.

I also make sure people have views of nature.

A desk facing trees, a rooftop garden, or even a nearby park can make a big difference.

If outdoor views aren’t possible, I use nature-inspired murals or photographs.

When planning layouts, I place workstations near windows and keep tall furniture away from them.

I also choose light-colored walls and reflective surfaces to bounce sunlight deeper into the room.

This approach follows biophilic design principles that highlight daylight and natural views as core elements.

Greenery: Plants, Living Walls, and Vertical Gardens

I like to add plants in different forms—potted indoor plants, hanging planters, and herb gardens near the kitchen area.

Low-maintenance options like the snake plant or pothos are great for busy spaces because they thrive with minimal care.

For a bigger impact, I use living walls or vertical gardens.

These can cover an entire wall with greenery, improving air quality and adding texture.

They also save floor space, which is perfect for smaller coworking areas.

I spread plants throughout the space instead of clustering them in one spot.

This way, greenery is visible from almost every seat.

According to design experts, plant diversity also matters—mixing leaf shapes, sizes, and colors adds visual interest.

Natural Materials and Textures

I choose natural materials like wood, stone, and bamboo for desks, shelves, and flooring.

These materials add warmth and a tactile quality that artificial finishes can’t match.

I also bring in natural textures through rugs, woven baskets, and fabric choices.

For example, a reclaimed wood table paired with linen cushions feels more inviting than metal and plastic furniture.

Using materials in their raw or lightly finished state helps maintain a connection to nature.

I often mix smooth surfaces like polished stone with rougher textures like jute or cork.

This variety creates a balanced and comfortable atmosphere, as suggested in biophilic design guides.

Water Features and Soundscapes

I find that water features can add a calming effect to a coworking space.

A small fountain or water wall creates gentle background noise that masks distracting sounds.

If installing a water element isn’t possible, I sometimes use recorded soundscapes of flowing water or rain.

These can be played softly in common areas to create a more relaxed environment.

Placement matters.

I avoid putting water features too close to desks where splashing could be distracting.

Instead, I place them in lounges or reception areas where people can enjoy them during breaks.

This matches practical advice on integrating sensory elements in shared spaces.

Design Strategies for Biophilic Coworking Spaces

I create a work environment that supports health, comfort, and focus.

The right design choices improve the indoor environment, encourage collaboration, and help people feel more connected to nature.

Spatial Layout and Zoning

I arrange coworking spaces so that each area serves a clear purpose.

For example, I keep quiet zones away from high-traffic areas to reduce distractions.

I place shared tables near windows so people can enjoy daylight while working.

Breakout areas work best close to plants or green walls, which reduce noise and add visual interest.

To help everyone feel comfortable, I use a mix of open seating, private booths, and small meeting rooms.

This gives people options to choose the setting that fits their task.

I make sure walkways stay wide enough for easy movement.

Clear paths help the space feel open and reduce stress when moving around the office.

Maximizing Natural Ventilation and Air Quality

Fresh air makes a big difference in my day.

I use natural ventilation by placing operable windows on opposite sides of the space to allow cross-breezes.

When windows do not provide enough airflow, I add ceiling fans or low-noise air circulators to keep the air moving.

I include indoor plants known for improving air quality, like peace lilies or snake plants.

I avoid putting desks near vents that blow directly on people.

This prevents discomfort and helps maintain even temperatures.

For spaces in busy urban areas, I use air purifiers with HEPA filters to reduce dust and pollutants.

This keeps the indoor environment healthier and more pleasant.

Nature-Inspired Art and Décor

I bring nature indoors even when I can’t add more plants.

Nature-inspired art, such as landscape prints or botanical illustrations, makes a space feel calmer.

I choose textures and colors that mimic natural materials.

Wood finishes, stone surfaces, and earthy tones create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

For a stronger effect, I use nature-inspired décor such as moss walls or botanical table arrangements.

These features add visual interest without taking up much floor space.

I rotate art pieces seasonally to keep the space fresh and engaging for returning members.

Case Studies and Real-World Examples

I see how coworking spaces around the world use plants, natural light, and organic materials to improve comfort and focus.

Some add greenery in creative ways, while others design the entire space around nature.

Global Biophilic Coworking Spaces

In Singapore, The Working Capitol uses living walls and open courtyards to bring fresh air and greenery into daily work life.

The plants reduce noise and create a calm atmosphere.

In Amsterdam, Moss Amsterdam’s biophilic workspace blends indoor elements with features inspired by valleys and lakes.

They use natural textures and colors to make the indoors feel connected to the outdoors.

London’s Second Home coworking space surrounds desks with green walls and skylights.

This design maximizes daylight and supports plant growth, which makes the space feel bright and fresh even on cloudy days.

Examples at a glance:

Innovative Features and Success Stories

Some spaces focus on small but impactful details.

For example, indoor herb gardens in kitchen areas let members pick fresh mint or basil for tea and lunch.

This adds a sensory connection to nature and encourages healthy habits.

The Terrapin Bright Green case studies highlight projects where biophilic design improved productivity and reduced stress.

One coworking space reported fewer sick days after adding natural ventilation and more plants.

Amazon’s The Spheres in Seattle shows how large-scale green walls and diverse plant species can create an inspiring work setting.

Smaller coworking hubs can adapt this idea on a budget with vertical gardens or potted plant clusters.

Some operators track air quality and light levels to keep the environment healthy.

This makes biophilic design part of the space’s daily function.

Getting Started: Tips for Implementing Biophilic Design

I start with small, practical changes that make a coworking space feel more connected to nature.

I look closely at the layout, add natural elements that fit the budget, and involve the people who use the space.

Assessing Your Current Space

I walk through the space and note what already works.

I look for natural light sources, existing plants, and any views of the outdoors.

These features form the foundation for biophilic design.

I check for areas that feel dark, crowded, or disconnected from nature.

Sometimes, moving desks near windows or removing visual barriers makes a big difference.

To keep track, I make a simple table:

This helps me see where improvements are most needed before spending money.

Easy Biophilic Upgrades

I start with changes that are quick and affordable.

Adding low-maintenance plants such as snake plants or pothos quickly improves air quality and visual appeal.

Natural materials make a big difference too.

Swapping plastic desk organizers for wooden ones or adding a jute rug brings in texture and warmth.

If the budget allows, I install full-spectrum LED lighting to mimic daylight.

I also use nature-themed artwork or incorporate natural elements like stone planters to make the space feel more inviting without major renovations.

I avoid overcrowding with plants or décor.

The goal is to create balance so the space feels calm and open.

Engaging Your Community

I’ve learned that biophilic design works best when the community feels ownership over it. I ask members what plants or natural features they want to see.

This approach builds engagement. It also ensures the changes match their preferences.

I sometimes host a “plant care day.” Members help water, prune, and arrange greenery.

This event creates a shared responsibility for keeping the space vibrant.

You can also rotate plant displays or artwork. This keeps the environment feeling fresh.

Encouraging members to bring in their own small plants adds variety. It gives the space a personal touch.