This time five years ago, Boris Johnson had just announced the national lockdown, bringing about face masks, furloughs, and full-out chaos in our daily lives. Thankfully today, COVID-19 and its impacts are fading deeper into distant memory. The changes we made to keep ourselves safe are no longer necessary – particularly regarding the way we work, which has sparked fierce debates about the future of offices. With the rise of remote work during the pandemic, millions of employees have continued to embrace the flexibility of working from home (WFH). However, studies have shown there are huge setbacks to this method, from difficulty maintaining work-life balance to social isolation, which massively impact productivity and well-being. Many companies are now opting for a “hybrid” approach, where workers are encouraged to be onsite at least twice per week. But as employees have become accustomed to the comfort of their homes, convincing them to return to an office setting can be almost impossible.
One innovative and surprising solution to this challenge? Plants.
While it may seem trivial, introducing more greenery into office spaces is a simple yet powerful way to create an environment that employees will be excited to return to. Not only do plants enhance the aesthetic appeal of an office, but they also contribute to overall employee wellbeing. Here’s how incorporating plants can help boost office attendance in this post-WFH era.
Creating a positive, plant-filled environment sends a powerful message to employees about the company’s commitment to their wellbeing. A workspace that prioritizes the inclusion of natural elements conveys that the company cares about its employees’ comfort and health.
One of the most compelling reasons to add plants to the office is their ability to improve air quality. Indoor plants absorb toxins and release oxygen, which can help combat common office pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene. By creating a healthier, fresher environment, plants can make employees feel more comfortable and energized. A more breathable workspace is likely to motivate employees to spend more time in the office, as they’ll be able to breathe easy and feel more at ease in their surroundings.
Beyond air quality, plants have a remarkable impact on productivity and creativity. The concept of biophilic design (bringing elements of nature into indoor spaces) has been shown to improve cognitive function, creativity, and job satisfaction. A well-planted office doesn’t just look good; it encourages employees to think more clearly and approach their work with greater focus.
Additionally, plants can significantly reduce stress and improve mood. For many workers, the pandemic led to heightened anxiety and burnout. Returning to the office after an extended period of remote work can feel daunting, but plants offer a simple solution to ease that transition. Studies have shown that being surrounded by greenery can lower stress levels and help employees feel more relaxed. Plants can also create a more calming atmosphere, making the office a place where employees want to spend time, rather than something they feel they must endure.
Plants also help address the sense of disconnection that many remote workers experienced during the pandemic. For urban employees, especially those without easy access to outdoor spaces, plants offer a way to reconnect with nature and bring some of the outdoors inside. This connection to nature can boost employees’ sense of wellbeing and help them feel more grounded, both emotionally and mentally. A plant-filled office environment can foster a sense of tranquility and belonging, which encourages employees to embrace the office once again.
Involving employees in the process of bringing plants into the office can also help create a sense of ownership and engagement. When workers feel that they have a say in how their environment is designed—whether it’s by taking care of plants or contributing to decorating their workspace—they become more emotionally invested in the office. This sense of ownership can translate into greater enthusiasm about returning to the office and participating in the day-to-day culture of the workplace.
In a world where the return to the office can feel like a step backward, biophilic design can help to create a progressive, sustainable workspace that employees can take pride in.
Companies that invest in a plant-friendly office can even strengthen their brand image. Many employees, particularly younger generations, place a high value on sustainability and environmental consciousness. By incorporating plants into the workplace, companies can show that they are committed to green practices and are attentive to the needs of their employees. This can not only improve employee satisfaction but also enhance the company’s appeal to potential hires.
The best part about using plants to improve the office environment is that it’s an easy and cost-effective solution. Unlike expensive office renovations or complex technological upgrades, adding plants is relatively simple and requires minimal effort. A few potted plants can quickly transform an office from sterile and uninspiring to vibrant and lively. For companies looking for an affordable way to improve the office environment and boost employee morale, plants provide an easy, accessible option.
The shift from remote work back to office life doesn’t have to be met with resistance. By introducing plants into the workplace, employers can create a more inviting, healthier, and productive environment that employees will be excited to return to. With benefits ranging from improved air quality to reduced stress and enhanced creativity, plants are more than just a decorative feature—they are a powerful tool to help employees transition back to the office with enthusiasm. As the WFH era fades into the background, companies that embrace the power of plants will be better equipped to foster a workplace that employees will love, not just work in.
So, what are you waiting for? Get in touch today to start greening your office and watch attendance soar!