The Benefits of Biophilic Design: Enhancing Your Space with Plants

Corbin Rhodes
3 min readMar 19, 2024

In today’s fast-paced world, many of us find solace and tranquility in nature. Biophilic design, which incorporates elements of nature into the built environment, has gained popularity for its ability to create spaces that promote well-being and connection with the natural world. One of the key elements of biophilic design is the use of plants to enhance indoor spaces. In this article, we’ll explore the numerous benefits of incorporating plants into your home or workplace.

Photo by Don Kaveen on Unsplash

1. Improved Air Quality:
Plants are natural air purifiers, absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen through photosynthesis. By introducing plants into your indoor environment, you can improve air quality and reduce levels of harmful pollutants, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are commonly found in indoor spaces. Ferns, Philodendrons, and Peace Lilies are great additions to medium light spaces and can also easily be incorporated into living green walls.

2. Stress Reduction:
Numerous studies have shown that spending time in nature or even viewing images of natural landscapes can reduce stress levels and promote feelings of calm and relaxation. Bringing plants indoors can have a similar effect, helping to create a soothing and peaceful atmosphere that enhances overall well-being. I often find tending to my plants a great and effective way to alleviate stress.

3. Increased Productivity and Creativity:
Research has demonstrated that having plants in the workplace can boost productivity and creativity. Plants have been shown to increase concentration, improve cognitive function, and enhance problem-solving skills, making them valuable additions to any workspace.

4. Biophilic Aesthetics:
In addition to their numerous health benefits, plants also add beauty and visual interest to indoor spaces. Whether you prefer lush tropical foliage, elegant flowering plants, or sleek modern succulents, there’s a plant to suit every style and aesthetic preference, allowing you to create a space that reflects your taste and enhances your surroundings.

Photo by Ron McClenny on Unsplash

5. Connection with Nature:
In today’s urbanized world, many people are increasingly disconnected from the natural world. Incorporating plants into indoor spaces helps to bridge this gap, allowing us to reconnect with nature daily. Whether you live in a bustling city apartment or a suburban home, surrounding yourself with plants can provide a sense of connection and grounding.

6. Enhanced Well-Being:
Numerous studies have shown that interacting with plants can have a positive impact on mental and physical health. From reducing stress and anxiety to lowering blood pressure and improving mood, the benefits of biophilic design extend far beyond aesthetics, contributing to overall health and well-being.

Photo by Jason Leung on Unsplash

Incorporating plants into your indoor spaces is a simple and effective way to enhance your environment and reap the numerous benefits of biophilic design. Whether you’re looking to improve air quality, reduce stress, boost productivity, or simply add a touch of beauty to your surroundings, plants offer a natural solution that can transform any space into a healthier, happier, and more harmonious place to live and work.

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