As workplaces evolve from the standard steel and glass design, a new trend is steadfastly being adopted: nature. Biophilic design, which entails incorporating natural elements into the built environment, is frequently at the forefront of discussions during the design process now. This is founded on the notion of biophilia, which refers to humans’ inherent innate attraction for the natural environment and other living systems.
Natural imagery and elements of nature like flowers, light, colours, and shapes, among other natural factors, have been shown to have visible — and quantitative — benefits for both firms and their employees, according to a growing body of studies.
The positive consequences range from greater productivity and creativity to reduced absenteeism, enhanced staff retention, increased earnings, and a better ability to attract the best employees.
Benefits of Biophilic Design
According to a study by Harvard Business Review, looking at anything green in the workplace — whether through a window, on a stroll outdoors, or even on a screen saver — can boost attention and performance. According to the attention restoration theory, natural surroundings provide us with restorative advantages. It proposes that exposure to nature is not only enjoyable but can also help us improve our focus and ability to concentrate. Looking at natural areas allows us to refill our reservoirs of attention control because nature catches our attention without needing us to focus on it. Since our attention is a finite resource that we constantly deplete, allowing it to recharge is crucial.
At Max Estates, we take inspiration from humans’ affinity to nature. Incorporating nature as an active participant in the work-life balance, allows periods of relaxation and escape in the hustle of the workday. The 10,000 sq. ft. “Central Forest Courtyard” at Max Square shall extend the core idea of work-life balance embodied by the development by allowing occupiers to engage and interact with nature, even as they work indoors, leading to lower stress and higher employee satisfaction.
How can organisations begin implementing a biophilic design
There are a few crucial areas to focus on whether you’re doing a large-scale renovation or simply adding touches of nature to an already built space:
- Greenery – Potted plants are a terrific place to start, but don’t rest there; green walls and flower gardens are equally impressive. Max Estates properties have indoor biophilic elements to enhance biodiversity. indoor plants and water bodies are part of the design. At Max House, for instance, the herb garden on the terrace allows tenants to engage with nature in the middle of their work day, allowing space for rejuvenation
- Patterns – Patterns and forms found in nature, such as honeycomb or leaf outlines, can be incorporated to bring in natural imagery to your surroundings
- Windows – Design the room to make the most of the natural light and vistas that come in
- Airflow – When possible, have adequate ventilation. If this isn’t possible, make sure there’s enough airflow.
- Physical Connection – Whenever possible, try to maximise the amount of interaction between the workers and nature.
For instance, at Max Towers, we have focused on strengthening connection with nature, reducing stress, and natural air purification. The specially created alfresco area in the café to allow tenants to engage with nature and decompress in the middle of the day
The Al Fresco Cafeteria at Max Towers, Noida
WorkWell and Nature: How we connect biophilia with work
At Max Estates, we abide by our unique philosophy of WorkWell. Based on the WELL standard, the WorkWell philosophy envisions an environment built around enhancing and enriching work and life, allowing one to truly ‘WorkWell’. We ensure we take care of the physical and emotional well-being of our tenants by providing the highest level of air and water filtration, sanitation, nutrition, and comfort, enabled by technology, as well as enabling community engagement and recreation through our carefully curated amenities and events. The elements of WorkWell include air, water, nature, recreation, and more, ensuring attention is paid to these right from the inception, during the design process.
For instance, from the unique glass fitted into the façade to the very air you breathe inside Max House, everything you experience is designed to enhance the effects of nature on creativity, productivity, and wellness. The three-tier air treatment technology delivers air quality on par with global standards; complete with CO2 sensors used to optimize ventilation and circulation, and the green walkways and decorated lobby and porch area, elevate the aesthetic and relaxing qualities of the development.
This is taken a step further with the integration of natural imagery in the lift lobbies, decorated with beautiful natural scenes, that make for a relaxing arrival experience.
At Max Towers, the façade modulates light, delivering it in peculiar and interesting compositions to every space while shielding them from the heat outside, lowering the overall costs of energy consumption for tenants. At the same time, green walkways and integration of green spaces and plants in a variety of surroundings further integrate natural imagery in the development.
Max Square, the upcoming development of Max Estates, located on the Noida-Greater Noida expressway is built entirely on the theme of uniting nature and work. Created with specially selected species of horticulture that are conducive to the local environment, a large central forest courtyard is envisaged to be the heart of our establishment. The forest is designed to be enjoyed from all levels of the development, providing a serene environment, along with a boost of natural light to everything. Designed such that 80% of every floor plate receives natural light, the Max Square has an aspiration of achieving Energy Performance Index (EPI) of 87 KWh/m2/year with a glare-free daylighting.
At Max Estates, we believe in taking care of the softer elements that enhance the well-being of our tenants, as well our employees. The role and purpose of an office is no longer just a space for employees to be located, but rather a holistic ecosystem that takes care of the well-being of the employees in every aspect.
For your team, choose the future of work, choose to WorkWell.
Artistic rendition of the reception at Max Square, Noida
Max House, Okhla, New Delhi
