- Built Environment
Designing Work spaces that Support Health, Focus, and Connection
This pillar focuses on how physical spaces—indoor and outdoor—can be shaped to promote wellbeing. By designing spaces that bring people closer to nature, employers can reduce stress, support physical and mental wellbeing, and foster a more engaged, productive culture.
The research: Biophilic design and access to nature in the workplace are linked to improved focus, fewer sick days, and greater job satisfaction. Natural elements help reduce mental fatigue and support creativity, engagement, and productivity.
Indoor Environments: Biophilic Design at Work
Biophilic design integrates natural elements into indoor settings to create calming, inspiring, and health-promoting environments.
Strategies include:
- Incorporating plants and greenery into shared spaces and individual workstations
- Using natural materials (wood, stone, water elements) in furniture, finishes, or decor
- Maximizing exposure to natural light and outdoor views
- Designing quiet zones or recharge areas with nature-inspired textures and imagery
- Enhancing indoor air quality through ventilation, filtration, and natural purifiers
- Exploring WELL Building Standards and certifications to align physical space with workforce health goals
Outdoor Environments: Making Nature Accessible
Outdoor spaces don’t need to be elaborate—they just need to be intentional. Accessible, welcoming green spaces promote movement, creativity, and connection throughout the workday.
Strategies include:
- Creating shaded walking paths, meditation zones, or outdoor break areas
- Adding picnic tables, benches, and shaded seating to encourage time outside
- Designing edible gardens or pollinator-friendly plantings with employee involvement
- Building or enhancing existing green infrastructure (e.g., stormwater gardens, tree cover)
- Ensuring ADA-compliant access to outdoor spaces for all employees
Getting Started:
Start small: Even a few plants or an outdoor lunch area can spark culture change.
Listen to your team: Employee surveys can reveal what matters most.
Think seasonally: Update or rotate features with the seasons to keep spaces fresh and functional.
Collaborate locally: Landscape designers, green builders, and environmental planners can help bring your vision to life.
