Plants in the Office: Benefits for Well-Being and Productivity

At atipik, we have plants of all sizes and types. But beyond their decorative appeal, these natural allies play a crucial role in enhancing well-being, health, and daily productivity.

Numerous scientific studies (see HortScience, AHTA, and Journal of Physiological Anthropology) show that contact with nature, even indoors, has positive effects on both physical and mental health.

Here’s how plants can transform your workplace environment.

The Unexpected Benefits of Office Plants

1. Improved Air Quality

Plants naturally improve air quality: they absorb certain pollutants (solvents, formaldehyde, cigarette particles, etc.) and convert them into nutrients, as illustrated by several scientific studies and experiments carried out in controlled environments (see NASA).

What's more, through their transpiration process, plants release water, which helps to maintain optimum humidity levels** in your premises. This is particularly beneficial when heating in winter or air conditioning in summer dries out the air, which can cause respiratory irritation or dermatological discomfort.

The result? Improved air quality that can help reduce headaches, fatigue and irritation, improving employee well-being.

2. Stress Reduction and Mood Enhancement

Placing plants in the workplace helps to reduce stress, and the simple act of looking at or caring for a plant can induce a sense of calm and serenity, as research into horticultural therapy (AHTA) has shown. Establishing a routine of taking a few moments each day to water or observe the development of a plant can also help to reduce tension and improve overall mood.

3. Boosting Creativity and Productivity

A working environment enriched by nature stimulates the mind, and the diversity of shapes and colours of plants can stimulate creativity. Several studies show that a green working environment encourages the emergence of innovative ideas.

4. Noise Reduction

Plants, particularly when installed as green walls, play a role in reducing noise. Dense foliage and vegetated structures absorb some of the sound waves, contributing to a calmer working environment. This is particularly useful in open spaces, where noise can be a major source of distraction.

5. Strengthening Team Spirit

Regular plant maintenance can be transformed into a collective activity. Everyone can contribute in their own way, which strengthens the bonds between employees and creates opportunities for informal exchanges. What's more, plants often serve as a topic of conversation, facilitating interaction and creating a more convivial atmosphere within the team.

How to add plants to your office space ?

There's more to greening your business premises than just a few pots of plants on a desk. Here are some creative ideas:

1. Add plants to desks and shelves

Putting small plants on desks, shelves or windowsills is a simple first step to introducing greenery into your working environment.

2. install a green wall

A green wall offers a strong visual impact. Ideal for reception areas or meeting rooms, it can be designed with a variety of plants suited to the interior. A number of modular systems are available, making them easy to install and maintain.

3. Make a plant logo

Why not recreate your logo or acronym in plant form? This original approach combines visual communication and environmental commitment, making a positive impression on your visitors and staff.

4. hanging plants

Installing hanging plants allows you to enjoy the benefits of greenery without cluttering up the floor, ideal for offices where space is at a premium. They also add a contemporary and creative touch to interior design.

5. Planters and urban vegetable gardens

Installing planters or even a small vegetable garden on the roof or in a company courtyard can be an aesthetic and functional asset. Growing aromatic plants or vegetables also provides an opportunity for relaxation and sharing. This type of installation reinforces the company's eco-responsible image while encouraging the learning of sustainable practices.

6. Embellish with fresh and dried bouquets

And for those who prefer a more colourful touch, fresh bouquets add dynamism. For a solution requiring less maintenance, dried bouquets retain their charm and natural appearance over a longer period.

Our Selection of Plants for a Healthier Office

To help you choose, here’s a selection of plants that are particularly well-suited for office environments:

• Ficus – Excellent for air purification and easy to maintain.
• Monstera – Loved for its decorative foliage and ability to adapt to various lighting conditions.
• Ferns – Ideal for regulating humidity and filtering toxins.
• Aromatic plants (Basil, Mint, Rosemary) – Perfect for small office gardens, adding a playful and refreshing touch.
• Palms – Create a tropical atmosphere while helping to maintain optimal humidity levels.

Bringing plants into the workplace goes far beyond aesthetics. Improved air quality, reduced stress, enhanced creativity, lower noise pollution, and stronger team cohesion are just a few of the many benefits that nature brings to the professional environment.

If installing a green wall or an urban garden isn’t an option, start small—a desk plant or a green corner in the break room can already transform the atmosphere. And for those who want to extend these benefits, stepping outside to a park or a tree-lined walkway remains a great way to reconnect with nature.

Embrace greenery in the office and turn your workspace into a true place of well-being and inspiration!