When people think about workplace design, interior landscaping is often seen as a finishing touch; nice to have, but not essential. However, an investment in interior landscaping can deliver measurable returns that go far beyond surface appeal. Biophilic design, the integration of natural elements into the built environment, has been shown to positively influence wellbeing, productivity, and satisfaction at work. Research demonstrates that exposure to natural elements such as plants and green walls can reduce stress, improve mood, and increase creativity and focus.
Plants aren’t just decoration. They quietly shape how people feel, behave, and connect with their environment every day. Studies suggest that when workers have visual access to natural elements, they report higher wellbeing and engagement, and biophilic workplaces have been linked to improved job satisfaction.
How interior landscaping influences happiness at work
Well-designed planting has a powerful impact on day-to-day happiness and comfort. Natural elements help soften hard architectural lines, reduce visual stress, and create a sense of calm in busy environments. Exposure to greenery has been shown to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation — benefits rooted in our innate affinity for nature. When people feel more at ease in a space, they’re more likely to enjoy being there — and that can positively influence morale, focus, and productivity.
This is why interior landscaping companies that take a design-led approach focus on experience, not just plant placement. Thoughtful biophilic design integrates plants, light, circulation, and spatial flow to enhance psychological comfort and support human experience throughout a workspace.
Encouraging better use of shared spaces
Shared spaces only work when people want to use them. Thoughtful interior landscaping can subtly encourage people to linger in breakout areas, lounges, and collaborative zones. Greenery helps define spaces, improve acoustics, and create environments that feel welcoming rather than transient. Presence of plants and natural elements can also help absorb noise and create sensory comfort in open environments.
As a result, offices become more social, more collaborative, and more human — supporting stronger workplace culture without a single word being spoken.
First impressions that speak volumes
First impressions matter, especially for client-facing businesses. A well-considered planting scheme immediately signals professionalism, care, and quality. Visitors may not consciously analyse the planting, but they will feel the difference. A green, nature-infused environment communicates attention to detail and an investment in wellbeing — qualities that reflect positively on brand identity and values.
Supporting ESG and sustainability goals
Many organisations are under increasing pressure to demonstrate meaningful ESG commitments. Interior landscaping can support these narratives when done responsibly — through sustainable plant sourcing, long-term maintenance planning, and designs that promote biodiversity and wellbeing. Biophilic design is an effective way to reflect organisational values and enhance environmental performance, contributing to a more sustainable workplace.
The right interior landscaping companies don’t just install plants; they help clients make thoughtful, transparent choices that align with wider environmental goals.
Reinforcing employer brand and culture
Today’s employees expect more from their workplaces. Spaces that feel healthy, considered, and uplifting play a quiet but important role in attracting and retaining talent. Biophilic environments have been linked to higher levels of creativity, wellbeing, and job satisfaction, making them a valuable tool in reinforcing employer brand and culture.
Happier spaces don’t happen by accident. They’re designed, curated, and cared for over time.
And that’s the real return on investment: environments where people genuinely want to be.
Leaflike specialise in interior landscaping for Grade A Commercial space – get in touch today.
Read more about the proven benefits of biophilia:
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10650689/
- Kaplan, R. (1993). The role of nature in the context of the workplace. Landscape and Urban Planning, 26, 193-201.
- https://www.sbs.ox.ac.uk/sites/default/files/2022-07/Real_estate_beyond_location_report_0.pdf